[Jayman]

I originally thought I would be upgrading my PCI card to improve my audio, but my research has let me to conclude that I will be getting a straight on external USB DAC.

Both the Scott-Nixon products and Monica are now available in I2S USB DAC flavors.

Prices for the 3 Scott-Nixon products and the USB Monica are close enough that price is not an issue for me. I have heard the praises of both here in AC but not much about side by side comparisons or impressions from people who have listened to both.

Anyone heard both and would like to share your experience?

Thanks!

[Jayman]

Wow!

2 days, 100 views and not one person has an opinion on this one.

Anyone....?

[BradJudy]

This probably won't help you, but I'm planning on building a Twisted Pear Audio OPUS USB DAC once they get boards in again. 

It's a neat design and it has received some good praise. 

[kbuzz3]

Ok, let me through a wrench. I have not heard the nixon nor the diy, but I am quite pleased with the MHDT with usb output. Very very musical.

There is also the hagerman

[brj]

There is also the DDDAC 1543 MK2 with USB->I2S capability, although like Twisted Pear, you only order them in kit form.  Sorry, probably not much help to the OP, but it might be of some use to others inclined to DIY.

[JohnR]

Good to see Scott Nixon has kits again My second DAC died recently so something has to be done... There seem to be lots of offerings in this area now!

[Folsom]

The 1543 chip sounds extremely good for the price. I made a $40 DAC with one and it sounds better than any entry level CD player, audiophile grade, I have ever heard. It sounded much better than a stock Squeezebox. I was running it on battery though, that did wonders for it.

I doubt you can go too wrong with with Scott Nixon. I bet it sounds real nice with the extra power supply.

[lonewolfny42]

You might send Hantra a PM to ask him if he has compared the two.

Hantra's system...

[giantsteps]

 I had both but not w/ USB. FWIW I much preferred the S/N. The Monica lacked dynamics in MY system.

 Frank

[Jayman]

Hi Giantsteps,

Which Scott Nixon did you have and which Monica?

Thanks!

[giantsteps]

Hi Giantsteps,

Which Scott Nixon did you have and which Monica?

Thanks!

Tube Dac+ with 3Xac and Monica2.
Frank

[Jayman]

Hi Frank,

Wow, interesting and helpful information.

Did you ever try the S/N without the 3Xac? Did the upgraded power supply make a significant difference for you? Was it worth the extra money?

Thanks

[giantsteps]

Hi Frank,

Wow, interesting and helpful information.

Did you ever try the S/N without the 3Xac? Did the upgraded power supply make a significant difference for you? Was it worth the extra money?

Thanks

I never tried the S/N with another PS. The combination is highly competitive with other Dacs in its price range. Without mentioning names I've heard a lot of Dacs and they all have strengths and weaknesses. It's a question, as usual, of system synergy and YOUR personal taste.  

Frank