AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => The HiRez Music Circle => Topic started by: Atlplasma on 7 May 2010, 01:09 pm
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I'm on the hunt for a good but cheap high-rez DAC for my Mac Mini music server. (Hopefully such a creature exists since I can't spend big bucks on this component.)
My Mini is a first generation G4, so it does not have a toslink connection. I currently output music over USB to an inexpensive upsampling DAC. My music is stored on an external drive connected via firewire. The DAC feeds into a Yahama RX-V2700 AVR with outboard Outlaw monoblocks. My speakers are Salk SongTower RTs. (Other components include an ancient but nice sounding Eico ST-70, an Oppo 980 players, and a first generation Sony Blu-Ray player.)
I've recently been trying the Channel D Pure Music player, really liking the sound, and wanting to see what it might be capable of with higher resolution content. So far my search has turned up a few options, such as the Logitech Touch (24/96), the CrypoParts Pop Pulse 1796, and the Maxtrix Mini-i 24/192. I'm also considering the Twisted Pear Buffalo II kit. (Most of these options would require a USB to SP/DIF converter such as the M2Tech Hiface to receive high resolution data from the Mini.) These DACs are all in the sub $350 range.
I would be curious if anyone in this circle has tried any of this DACs or has suggestions for other units in the same price range.
Thanks in advance for your input.
Steve
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Steve,
So is $350 your budget or can folks post about DACs that creep above it? Where is your hard stop? Thx
Ted
P.S. Remember, folks, Steve wanst a HIREZ DAC, meaning it handles 24/48+ natively (not upsampled).
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Hi Ted:
That's a fair question. I'd rather stretch my budget than buy something that wouldn't satisfy. I picked $350 because the examples I provided all retail for less than that amount. But if someone wants to argue that it's necessary to spend $1000+ to acquire a DAC that will deliver acceptable results, I'm open to being persuaded.
Steve
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You might also consider using a pro audio interface, like Channel D recommends for Pure Vinyl. It give you inputs and outputs and can add a lot of bang for the buck, but be a little bit complicated to use.
I've had good results with a Focusrite Saffire 26 Pro I/O that I bought on close out for around your price range. It is a firewire 24/192 ADC/DAC and I have been quite happy with the sound, although I've had a few buggy issues I've had to work out. If I were buying today, I think I would be looking closely at the TC Electronic Impact Twin.
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/TC-Electronic-Impact-Twin-Next-Generation-FireWire-Interface?sku=584562
What I'm using:
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Focusrite-Saffire-PRO-26-IO-8Channel-FireWire-Interface-?sku=241135#used
Jim C
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The HRT Streamer USB DACs are getting fantastic reviews. At $350 you could get the Streamer II+. When I talked to HRT about their new line of DACs, they told me that the new non-+ version of the Streamer II was a better choice than the original Streamer+. The II serives now has async USB and can handle hi-rez. MusicDirect carries them, so you could take advantage of their 30-day trial period.
Lots of great reviews of the original lines and the new streamer. Check the spinoff of the DAC shootout thread here, and 6moons for starters.
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The Beresford DAC is High Rez (methinks). It's $279, has USB, coax and optical inputs. It sounds tremendously good for $279 and you can get them on Audiogon. I think Beresford occasionally puts demo units on agon for around $220. Take a look. I can't imagine anything better for the price.
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The Beresford DAC is High Rez (methinks). It's $279, has USB, coax and optical inputs. It sounds tremendously good for $279 and you can get them on Audiogon. I think Beresford occasionally puts demo units on agon for around $220. Take a look. I can't imagine anything better for the price.
The Beresford TC-7520 is 24-bit/96KHz capable through the optical or coax inputs, and 16-bit/48KHz through the USB input.
http://www.beresford-dac.com/beresford-tc-7520 (http://www.beresford-dac.com/beresford-tc-7520)
Steve
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Steve, see my take on Matrix mini-i on this site comparing to MF v-dac, those are the onlu two i have tried, head fi has so many postings on this stuff it is overwhelming.
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Yes, agreed that the Pro might be a great low-risk (30 day trial) intro into 24/96.
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/hrt2/pro.html
As afar as $1k-$2k max, the ones to keep in mind are:
*Wyred4Sound DAC2 (24/192 via USB)..due for release next week. EJ, Rick and co know how to build an analog stage, so the Sabre DAC chips and their back-end should be quite good.
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/wyred4/dac.html
*Metric Halo ULN-2. Again, 24/96 max but a pro piece that has tremendous pedigree.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/568876-REG/Metric_Halo_000_50006_ULN_2_2d_FireWire.html
*Antelope's new Zodiac series. They make some of the best external clocks and have a great pro reputation.
http://www.antelopeaudio.com/en/products_integrity.html
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I am using a V-DAC in my system currently.
http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/V-Series/V-DAC/V-DAC.asp
It complements my amp (ST-70) well. It is missing the brightness associated with some of the other cheap SS dac's. It is well worth the price. Occasionally, Audio Advisor has open box specials where you can pick one up for $230.00. I like the small case it comes in, the last thing I need is another full size component on my rack.
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Hi Jim:
Thanks for the interesting idea. Do you know if the TC Impact is compatible with Firewire 400 and if you can daisy chain a Firewire drive? The manual isn't clear on the first point, and it seems to recommend against putting two devices on one bus. Just wondering if you have any real-world experience with these potential issues.
Steve
You might also consider using a pro audio interface, like Channel D recommends for Pure Vinyl. It give you inputs and outputs and can add a lot of bang for the buck, but be a little bit complicated to use.
I've had good results with a Focusrite Saffire 26 Pro I/O that I bought on close out for around your price range. It is a firewire 24/192 ADC/DAC and I have been quite happy with the sound, although I've had a few buggy issues I've had to work out. If I were buying today, I think I would be looking closely at the TC Electronic Impact Twin.
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/TC-Electronic-Impact-Twin-Next-Generation-FireWire-Interface?sku=584562
What I'm using:
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Focusrite-Saffire-PRO-26-IO-8Channel-FireWire-Interface-?sku=241135#used
Jim C
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Thanks. I'll investigate. I read good things about using an asynchronous implementation on USB. The 24/96 isn't necessarily a deal killer for me and being able to trial the device would certainly be a plus.
Steve
The HRT Streamer USB DACs are getting fantastic reviews. At $350 you could get the Streamer II+. When I talked to HRT about their new line of DACs, they told me that the new non-+ version of the Streamer II was a better choice than the original Streamer+. The II serives now has async USB and can handle hi-rez. MusicDirect carries them, so you could take advantage of their 30-day trial period.
Lots of great reviews of the original lines and the new streamer. Check the spinoff of the DAC shootout thread here, and 6moons for starters.
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FWIW, I enjoy my Cambridge Audio DACMagic, which fits your needs.
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Thanks, Bob. It looks like the DACMagic uses upsampling, correct? I'd like to find a solution that handles the higher resolutions at their native rate.
Steve
FWIW, I enjoy my Cambridge Audio DACMagic, which fits your needs.
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yeah, it upsamples to 24/192. But it'll take native 24/96 if that helps.
http://www.cambridgeaudio.com/specifications.php?PID=320&Title=Specifications (http://www.cambridgeaudio.com/specifications.php?PID=320&Title=Specifications)
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where does the 24/96 source material come from?
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where does the 24/96 source material come from?
DVD-Audio discs and rips (up to 24/192)
DVD-Video (audio portion) discs and rips (up to 24/96; like Neil Young greatest hits, Live at Massey Hall, etc)
downloadable files from a plethora of sources (HDTracks, HDTT, etc...see list in this Circle)
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DVD-Audio discs and rips (up to 24/192)
DVD-Video (audio portion) discs and rips (up to 24/96; like Neil Young greatest hits, Live at Massey Hall, etc)
downloadable files from a plethora of sources (HDTracks, HDTT, etc...see list in this Circle)
I was under the impression that DVD-A is locked from outputting anything digital except for Linear PCM (Redbook 16/44) with very few exceptions. I know (from working in Post Production) that most audio that is used in video is upsampled from Redbook unless it was specifically recorded higher. I know most of the audio tracks on live performances comes off the board and is usually 16/44 native and then upsampled to whatever is needed afterwards.
I know some of the places (websites) I’ve seen 24/96 or 24/192 music are recorded on one of the many portable live recording devices, im sure much of the studio stuff of mainstream or commercial music found at anything above 16/44 is likely upsampled with little exception.
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I was under the impression that DVD-A is locked from outputting anything digital except for Linear PCM (Redbook 16/44) with very few exceptions. I know (from working in Post Production) that most audio that is used in video is upsampled from Redbook unless it was specifically recorded higher. I know most of the audio tracks on live performances comes off the board and is usually 16/44 native and then upsampled to whatever is needed afterwards.
I know some of the places (websites) I’ve seen 24/96 or 24/192 music are recorded on one of the many portable live recording devices, im sure much of the studio stuff of mainstream or commercial music found at anything above 16/44 is likely upsampled with little exception.
Those concerns are real, but now fewer and farther between. And DVD-A ripping is unprotected and simple (see my tutorial). Welcome to HiRez. :)
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I am using a V-DAC in my system currently.
http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/V-Series/V-DAC/V-DAC.asp
It complements my amp (ST-70) well. It is missing the brightness associated with some of the other cheap SS dac's. It is well worth the price. Occasionally, Audio Advisor has open box specials where you can pick one up for $230.00. I like the small case it comes in, the last thing I need is another full size component on my rack.
This is an upsampling DAC, correct?
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Steve, see my take on Matrix mini-i on this site comparing to MF v-dac, those are the onlu two i have tried, head fi has so many postings on this stuff it is overwhelming.
Great write up Batman. I'll keep the Matrix on my short list.
Steve
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This is an upsampling DAC, correct?
Yes, the V-DAC is an upsampling DAC. It uses the BB DSD1792 chip and a SRC4392 upsampler.
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I've been interested in this DAC http://cgi.ebay.com/24bit-192KHz-DAC-DIY-KIT-FULL-ASSEMBLED-KIT-Lampucera-/120551270538?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c116a688a
It's getting positive reviews on DIY Audio http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/digital-line-level/164299-new-small-diy-gigawork-dac-2.html
It's DIY but it comes all wired together. You could put it in a shoe box.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=29253)
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I've been interested in this DAC http://cgi.ebay.com/24bit-192KHz-DAC-DIY-KIT-FULL-ASSEMBLED-KIT-Lampucera-/120551270538?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c116a688a
It's getting positive reviews on DIY Audio http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/digital-line-level/164299-new-small-diy-gigawork-dac-2.html
It's DIY but it comes all wired together. You could put it in a shoe box.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=30068)
I actually have Gigawork's previous 24/192 upsampling DAC. It was hard to beat for the money. I'm assuming the PCM 1798 handles all resolutions up to 24/192 without upsampling, correct?
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The HRT Streamer USB DACs are getting fantastic reviews. At $350 you could get the Streamer II+. When I talked to HRT about their new line of DACs, they told me that the new non-+ version of the Streamer II was a better choice than the original Streamer+. The II serives now has async USB and can handle hi-rez. MusicDirect carries them, so you could take advantage of their 30-day trial period.
Lots of great reviews of the original lines and the new streamer. Check the spinoff of the DAC shootout thread here, and 6moons for starters.
Just an FYI for everyone, I contacted HRT to inquire about the HD (24/192) version. The CTO says its coming "soon" and will be "under $1000."
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Thats cool about HRT but for me-"Good but cheap.." means under $200....the gigaworks looks cool but I have no equipment or ability at even one solder joint. I checked with whoever it is that is Gigaworks and asked about a fully assembled one in a case like ready to go and they offer it....I'll dig up the info..if I remember correctly it was around $150..not positive on that.
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Thats cool about HRT but for me-"Good but cheap.." means under $200....the gigaworks looks cool but I have no equipment or ability at even one solder joint. I checked with whoever it is that is Gigaworks and asked about a fully assembled one in a case like ready to go and they offer it....I'll dig up the info..if I remember correctly it was around $150..not positive on that.
If this is like their previous BIG DAC (and I think it is), you receive the board and power supply and no soldering is required. I put my DAC in a Hammond case, but that's not really necessary. So don't let the "kit" description scare you off.
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In a related search...
We are looking for a reasonably priced D/A with balanced outputs and a level control . Price target is <$600 street. We can go a bit higher if necessary. Any recommendations???
The idea is for preamp-less complete system driven by Apple Lossless tracks on iPod into a Wadia dock, so coax S/PDIF is also required. The Wadia unit has no TOSLINK or AES/EBU (AES3). Related post:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=58526.msg730574#msg730574
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In a related search...
We are looking for a reasonably priced D/A with balanced outputs and a level control . Price target is <$600 street. We can go a bit higher if necessary. Any recommendations???
The idea is for preamp-less complete system driven by Apple Lossless tracks on iPod into a Wadia dock, so coax S/PDIF is also required. The Wadia unit has no TOSLINK or AES/EBU (AES3). Related post:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=58526.msg730574#msg730574
Bunnyman357 had recommended this unit:
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/TC-Electronic-Impact-Twin-Next-Generation-FireWire-Interface?sku=584562
Would that work?
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On the Giga DAC assembled kit, where is the ac power? Kit list:
The kit contents -
1. Main DAC board. Size 80mm(D) X 55mm(W) X 25mm(H)
2. Power supply board Size 80mm(D) X 55mm(W) X 40mm(H)
2. Come with High quality Encapsulated Power Transformers x1pcs ( 110V or 220V )
4. IEC AC socket x1pcs
5. Connection cables
Features -
1) 4 separated individual precision voltage regulator.
2) High precision 1% metal film SMD resistors and metal capactors,
3) High grade op-amp NE5532 x 3pcs for the output stage.
4) A pair high quality RCA sockets for analog output.
5) On board jumper to select the digital input ( coaxial or optical ).
6) High quality ELNA and WIMA capacitors.
Audio Specifications:
Digital / Analog converters: PCM1798 (24bit 192khz DAC) (Old version use CS4397)
Digital receiver : Crystal CS8416
Master clock jitter: below measurable levels
Digital input: Coaxial and Optical
Analog output: RCA 2V rms. @75 ohms
:o If I'm assuming correctly it would just need a typical ac cord like a desktop PC or monitor uses???
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http://cgi.ebay.com/Mini1543-DAC-TDA1543-DIR9001-NOS-DAC-Kit-Board-/290405888644#ht_2423wt_939
Another I found, that looks like it could use same Parts Express PS that powers my SB...
This is Cheap, got some good comments on DIY, I wanna build one, need a project...just thinking out/typing..
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On the Giga DAC assembled kit, where is the ac power? Kit list:
The kit contents -
1. Main DAC board. Size 80mm(D) X 55mm(W) X 25mm(H)
2. Power supply board Size 80mm(D) X 55mm(W) X 40mm(H)
2. Come with High quality Encapsulated Power Transformers x1pcs ( 110V or 220V )
4. IEC AC socket x1pcs
5. Connection cables
Features -
1) 4 separated individual precision voltage regulator.
2) High precision 1% metal film SMD resistors and metal capactors,
3) High grade op-amp NE5532 x 3pcs for the output stage.
4) A pair high quality RCA sockets for analog output.
5) On board jumper to select the digital input ( coaxial or optical ).
6) High quality ELNA and WIMA capacitors.
Audio Specifications:
Digital / Analog converters: PCM1798 (24bit 192khz DAC) (Old version use CS4397)
Digital receiver : Crystal CS8416
Master clock jitter: below measurable levels
Digital input: Coaxial and Optical
Analog output: RCA 2V rms. @75 ohms
:o If I'm assuming correctly it would just need a typical ac cord like a desktop PC or monitor uses???
You would have to complete the connection from the transformer. Since I was mounting mine in a Hammond case, I used a fused AC inlet (like what you see on the back panel of many electronics). The most difficult part of going with this approach was machining a hole for the inlet.
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http://cgi.ebay.com/Mini1543-DAC-TDA1543-DIR9001-NOS-DAC-Kit-Board-/290405888644#ht_2423wt_939
Another I found, that looks like it could use same Parts Express PS that powers my SB...
This is Cheap, got some good comments on DIY, I wanna build one, need a project...just thinking out/typing..
I think this DAC is limited to 16bit/44kHz. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
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Good point..thank you. :duh:
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Bunnyman357 had recommended this unit:
http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/TC-Electronic-Impact-Twin-Next-Generation-FireWire-Interface?sku=584562
Would that work?
Not really, but thanks for the lead. We want something small and simple, like Lavry or Benchmark, but a little less pricey...
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We are looking for a reasonably priced D/A with balanced outputs and a level control . Price target is <$600 street. We can go a bit higher if necessary. Any recommendations???
The Music Hall dac 25.2 has a level control and differential balanced solid state outputs (although its 6922 tube output is single ended). It uses the TI PCM 1796 24bit/192kHz DAC.
It sells new for $595.
Steve
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The Music Hall dac 25.2 has a level control and differential balanced solid state outputs (although its 6922 tube output is single ended). It uses the TI PCM 1796 24bit/192kHz DAC.
It sells new for $595.
Steve
Following up on Steve suggestion, I found this review at 6moon Audio (http://www.sixmoons.com/audioreviews/usbdacs/1.html). The compare the Music Hall along with with several other DACs. The tube buffer is an interesting feature. Overall, I prefer a "tube" sound for extended listening.
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The more I noodle this issue around, the more it seems that the weak link in my configuration is actually the Mac Mini. The big problem with my box is that it is USB 1.0 (and does not include the built-in toslink connector). Those shortcoming make it impossible to move beyond 24 bit/96 kHz. It seems like most of the high rez USB DACs are designed for USB 2.0. (That's even the case for the M2 Tech converter.)
So it appears I need to take a step back and upgrade my Mini before doing anything else. Does this make sense, or am I not understanding something.
Steve
Apple just put up some refurbished Minis, so I purchased one for $499 plus tax. I'm leaning toward buying a M2 Tech HiFace and possibly connecting it to the inexpensive Gigawork dac. That would give me a good starting reference point for considering more expensive options (when budget allows).
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The Music Hall dac 25.2 has a level control and differential balanced solid state outputs (although its 6922 tube output is single ended). It uses the TI PCM 1796 24bit/192kHz DAC.
It sells new for $595.
Steve
Steve,
Unfortunately, the volume control only controls the headphone output... Guess I'll keep looking for deals on Lavry and Benckmark. Thanks.
-Tommy
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Here is an update on decision making process so far.
After investigating the DACs suggested here (and others), I concluded that my Mini with its USB 1.0 connections was not going to do the job. So I've ordered a refurbished Mini with USB 2.0. (and Firewire 800).
Many of the DACs I looked at could only output 44.1 kHz over USB--although the HRT supported up to 96 kHz. There seemed to be more options on with S/PDIF, so I've ordered an M2 Tech HiFace to convert USB to RCA.
Of course, these expenses haven't left much for a high-rez DAC. For comparison purposes I've ordered the new 24bit/192 kHz Gigawork DAC, which runs about $80 shipped. (I'm actually pretty satisfied with their upsampling DAC.) If nothing else, the Gigawork will provide a baseline when I can afford to trial something that is more upmarket.
Steve
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Here is an update on decision making process so far.
After investigating the DACs suggested here (and others), I concluded that my Mini with its USB 1.0 connections was not going to do the job. So I've ordered a refurbished Mini with USB 2.0. (and Firewire 800).
Many of the DACs I looked at could only output 44.1 kHz over USB--although the HRT supported up to 96 kHz. There seemed to be more options on with S/PDIF, so I've ordered an M2 Tech HiFace to convert USB to RCA.
Of course, these expenses haven't left much for a high-rez DAC. For comparison purposes I've ordered the new 24bit/192 kHz Gigawork DAC, which runs about $80 shipped. (I'm actually pretty satisfied with their upsampling DAC.) If nothing else, the Gigawork will provide a baseline when I can afford to trial something that is more upmarket.
Steve
Steve, you tried the Gigawork w/ the transformer mod, right? Do you think there's a retail dac that could compare/surpass for under $350? (serious question, not being provocative). Cause I would buy whatever option that was in a heartbeat!
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http://www.grantfidelity.com/site/Grant_Fidelity_Tube_DAC-09
I bought one of the above two weeks ago and love it, I'm not sure its got the specs your looking for but its worth it to check
out the site if you haven't already, if you have then oops... :thumb: :thumb:
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http://www.grantfidelity.com/site/Grant_Fidelity_Tube_DAC-09
I bought one of the above two weeks ago and love it, I'm not sure its got the specs your looking for but its worth it to check
out the site if you haven't already, if you have then oops... :thumb: :thumb:
Wow, nice find. Grant Fidelity is an AC frequenter, gets good reviews (nice thread on Cheap/Cheerful), and this DAC is not only 24/96 but also gives you the choice of an SS out or a tube out. For $225! Nice.
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In a related search...
We are looking for a reasonably priced D/A with balanced outputs and a level control . Price target is <$600 street. We can go a bit higher if necessary. Any recommendations???
The idea is for preamp-less complete system driven by Apple Lossless tracks on iPod into a Wadia dock, so coax S/PDIF is also required. The Wadia unit has no TOSLINK or AES/EBU (AES3). Related post:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=58526.msg730574#msg730574
From what I gethered, the Matrix i-mini is a DAC that is "truly balanced" (one DAC chip per channel) and has balanced (XLR) output connection. It also has level control that can doubles as a preamp. The reponses are quite positive so far and the priced around 320 US$.
Hope these info are useful to you.
Lo-tse
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I've been very pleased with the Gigawork DAC, but I haven't had the opportunity to compare it to anything else. The folks on the diyAudio thread (which is massive) have said it compares favorably with DACs costing hundreds of dollars (post modification). To clarify, I have the transformers for the output mod but haven't gotten around to it yet. I'm planning to try that change as soon as the new 24bit/192 kHz Gigawork. (That way I won't be dead in the water if I lift a tracing or commit some other error.) The new high rez Gigawork DAC should arrive this week, so I'm looking forward to taking it for a spin. As mentioned earlier, it's only $80 shipped. So who knows how it's going to perform.
Steve
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Wow, nice find. Grant Fidelity is an AC frequenter, gets good reviews (nice thread on Cheap/Cheerful), and this DAC is not only 24/96 but also gives you the choice of an SS out or a tube out. For $225! Nice.
Looks like a Grant branding of the same DAC as the Maverick DAC. Not a bad thing as Grant will back it up and they are generally very helpful.
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The nice thing about them (Grant) is they have wonderful customer service. If I have an issue with the DAC I have a number to call, that and the fact I caught a Hot Deal, get a discount going forward and it sounds, thats right Sounds excellent!! They also ship it configured as a line level DAC with the volume pot out of the mix except for headphone output and its an easy tweak to enable volume pot all around if I ever need to use it as a pre-amp. I don't work for them in any way but the way they've handled a simple sale with 10 times the value of that sale in customer service they are definitely on my short list as I spend away on this hobby/obsession/vice/addiction... :duh:
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Just an update on where I am with my high-rez dac search. The Chinese 2010 24/192 DAC was partially DOA. One of the caps had separated from the board (on the power supply apparently), and it was only producing sound out of one channel.
The packaging was shockingly inadequate given that many of the components are surface-mounted. Bubble pack and a soft envelope are no way to shipping a delicate set of electronics all the way from Hong Kong. :nono:
Fortunately, the seller has indicated he will refund my purchase price with shipping--once the parts make the three-week trip back to his location.
I'm now looking at the Matrix mini, CryoPart Pop, and Grant Fidelity DAC. Just don't want to deal with anymore direct-from-China purchases, however.
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Bummer. The hk/Chinese connection does grow old...
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I can only speak for Grant as a customer but they have excellent, I'm talking: reply to email on Sunday excellent customer service!!!!!!
They have been and continue to be absolutely committed to customer service....FWIW...sorry I got a little pumped there...LOL :duh:
Sorry..I forgot I wrote that above..OOPS!!
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I can only speak for Grant as a customer but they have excellent, I'm talking: reply to email on Sunday excellent customer service!!!!!!
They have been and continue to be absolutely committed to customer service....FWIW...sorry I got a little pumped there...LOL :duh:
Sorry..I forgot I wrote that above..OOPS!!
Happy Hour started early. We understand. :wink:
TGIF!
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LOL...it started when I was 15 and ended when I was 30...I got a new toy today so I'm totally amped, another thread...Have a Great Weekend!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumb:
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hello guys well Im new here and been reading what dac I want also. I have a linestage tube preamp a guy in chicago built by hand I will be using w two of the class d audio 250x2 at 8 ohms boards. now as for the dac I been looking at these.
this one the same as the maverick? but cheaper
http://cgi.ebay.com/DAC-tube-Amp-Multifuctional-Decoders-Headphone-Pre-amp-/260634798493?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3caf0b699d
or
http://cgi.ebay.com/great-USB-valve-TUBE-DAC-kit-recommend-/170517344355?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27b3a03063
or
http://cgi.ebay.com/Tube-CD-DAC-Kit-PCB-w-Parts-6DJ8-PCM63K-24-96KHz-DAC50-/290457942891?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43a0a47b6b
will any of these give me true hi-res
I do like the tubey sound and I dont care about a case for now. thanks mjc
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hello guys well Im new here and been reading what dac I want also. I have a linestage tube preamp a guy in chicago built by hand I will be using w two of the class d audio 250x2 at 8 ohms boards. now as for the dac I been looking at these.
this one the same as the maverick? but cheaper
http://cgi.ebay.com/DAC-tube-Amp-Multifuctional-Decoders-Headphone-Pre-amp-/260634798493?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3caf0b699d
or
http://cgi.ebay.com/great-USB-valve-TUBE-DAC-kit-recommend-/170517344355?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27b3a03063
or
http://cgi.ebay.com/Tube-CD-DAC-Kit-PCB-w-Parts-6DJ8-PCM63K-24-96KHz-DAC50-/290457942891?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43a0a47b6b
will any of these give me true hi-res
I do like the tubey sound and I dont care about a case for now. thanks mjc
For roughly the same money why not get the Maverick tube DAC that has gotten a lot of coverage here?
Of the three above, only the last one provides a full list of specs and seems to have the highest quality parts.
Here's another option. I like this seller. His boards are well made and he's very responsive. And he ONLY sells his DACs and nothing else or anyone else's designs, which is a good sign.
http://cgi.ebay.com/DAC-TDA1543-NOS-8-0-DIR9001-tube-6DJ8-6922-/320568187924?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4aa35a5c14#ht_2363wt_1133
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I'm pretty sure the TDA 1543 DAC chip can only handle 16 bit word length (even when you parallel 8 of them), so 24 bit data will just give you noise at the output. I could be mistaken about this though, so please don't take this as gospel.