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See if you agree with my DAC choice for ML 31.5 ... Different views welcome!

Posted by cpark on August 20, 2001 at 00:06:56

As I have been posting for the last two weeks, I have been looking at various choices for a DAC to go with my ML 31.5 transport. In this process I have listened to:
- dCS delius/purcell combo
- ML 30.5
- ML 360s

My system is:
- ML 31.5 CDT
- ARC LS-25 MK2 preamp
- ARC VT-100 MK3 amp
- Voce Divina Tenore speakers

All DACs were used unit and broken in... In addition, I have been researching this forum and other mag. reviews for DACs. My most recent conclusion is to try Two relatively low cost DACs first before final purchase:

1. Birdland Odeon-Lite: all reviews I have read, both mags and forums are positive to raves; plus analogue volume control is rated excellent; very cheap ($980) but high performance apparently; other DACs have been praised by some and not by others (e.g. MSB, Bel Canto, Perpetual Tech etc.); this one seems to get the most consistent and loyal followings; it does 24/96 upconversion also

2. Audio Note DAC 1.1X: relatively unorthodox but 1x oversampling is the other extreme new technology vs. 24/xxx upsampling; again great reviews and raves by mags and forum members. Top of the line DAC 5 is very expensive but 1.1x is supposedly very good, upgradeable and cheap at $1400 new. I thought 47 labs progression DAC did not have as consistent/strong recommendations.

So before I go for the obvious 360S or 30.5 route which would cost me at least $4000- $6000 even used and I like how they sound, but these exotic choices seem worthwhile at least trying, auditioning and at the worst, I will know I have listen to all other worthy choices before settling.

I am very interested to get last minute opinions from varying perspectives to make sure I am not missing certain thoughts. Even criticisms are welcome!

This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:

Schiit Audio

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