DAC decision, help please


Hi, all

I am wondering can anyone offer their thoughts, comments or opinions about the merits/flaws of the following DAC's: Audio Research DAC1/20 bit, Adcom GDA 700 HDCD, and CAL Simga II 24/96. I am going to make a choice between the 3 to use as a outboard DAC for my CAL Tercet MK III (which is already outstanding). I am looking for a DAC that can throw a decent sound stage and convey the human voice and traditional jazz ensembles with warm emotion. My system is soley used for me to unwind after a long week at work and for dedicated listening sessions with my lady on Sunday nights (after the Saprano's of course). Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Stan
anacondastan
When I posted a similar thread for recommendations for a DAC for my Icon Mk II, none of these units were recommended (I had asked for inexpensive recommendations). But in my research and scanning of other threads and comments on the topic of DACs for CAL players, the Bel Canto 1 and the EVS Millenium came up the most frequently. You are considering neither of these. Of the ones you are considering, I personally, from what I've heard and had recommended to me, would go with the ARC. Everyone told me that the Sigma original or 24/96 did not change the sound of the Icon at all. This may also be true for the Tercet. The ARC DACs are really good, I am still considering finding one in my price range (cheap!)
I do not know what your range is ,but the best value seems to be for an ART DIO modified by Boulder in Colorado.The price of the unit with the mod is roughly $00 and it has been put against many more expensive units.Bel Canto's DAC 1 has been getting pretty good reviews also.
I thought Cal Sigma went out of Biz and if that's the case I would look elsewhere for a DAC just to be on the safe side.
Good luck!
Your Tercet is OOOOOLLLLLLLDDDDDDDDDD. If you're happy with the sound, leave it alone. Laser might be fading. Drawer mechanism was notoriously problematic, too. Save your money for a nice new one box. GamuT CD-1 for $2950, numerous decent contenders available under $2K, or about the price of a musical DAC.