I'm looking to insert a DAC into my existing 2 channel system. Here are my parameters:
Budget - Under $2,000.
System - MacBook Pro and Simaudio CD5.3 --> Conrad Johnson CA200 control amp --> Renaissance Audio Group (formerly Morel) Preludes.
Musical preference --> All over the map; primarily small group jazz, but also rock and blues and classical and pop and you name it.
I had a Music Hall DAC25.3 in that system, and really like it. That DAC is now part of another, more modest, system. I've considered getting another Music Hall, because I think it sounds very nice and is a great value, but can't help but want to upgrade at this point and think my system justifies an upgrade.
I just auditioned a bel canto DAC1.5, which I liked a lot and am considering getting. Actually, its quite hard for me to distinguish the bel canto from the Simaudio CDP whether feeding it from the Mac's USP or from the Simaudio's S/PDIF coax. The Music Hall, on the other hand, added some bloom and enlarged the soundstage a bit, but at the expense of some neutrality and, I think, some detail. I am considering auditioning the bel canto DAC2.5, because it has the improved LNS1 power supply built in, and would like to determine if I can hear any difference (If I do, I would likely get the 1.5 with the outboard LNS1 power supply).
Am also considering the Peachtree iDac, but would prefer to buy a piece manufactured in North America if possible. (Nothing against the Chinese or Europeans, mind you, but would prefer to support local labor and entrepreneurs.)
I am not religious about technical approaches (the bel canto has adaptive USB and switching power supply and sounded great to me). Would also prefer multiple digital inputs, but would be willing to consider a USB only DAC if it sounds great, because that would likely be its only use.
Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
EDIT: The CJ amp is wonderfully transparent and neutral, but at the expense of some dynamics, so I would rather err a bit on the lively side of lively vs. laid back.
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"If you are the owner of a new stereophonic system, this record will play with even more brilliant true-to-life fidelity. In short, you can purchase this record with no fear of its becoming obsolete in the future."
Edits: 05/01/12
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