DAC to accompany WA3 + DT880s

Hi!

I've made up my mind after listening to a DT880 today that it is what I want to get. I've also got it in mind to order a Woo Audio 3 - now I just need a DAC to go with it. My budget is $200 - $300, and I'm having a bit of trouble finding options in this price range that will have a similar neutral character as the Woo and the DT880.

Ideally, if money were no object, I would like to get a StageDAC (I probably will in the future), but is there something that can tide me over until then? I would prefer to avoid the uDac if possible, I've listened to it and not enjoyed the sound, and I think it's a wee bit flavour of the month-ish. Additionally, I don't have any need for USB input - my motherboard has optical out.

Thanks!

Hi hodgjy,

Thanks for the reply. The VDAC was on my shortlist, but I've been having trouble finding out if it can be shipped to Canada. I'm thinking of selling off a few things and just going whole-hog for a StageDAC, since most things under that price range seem to be combo units. :/

Hi pekingduck,

Thanks for the suggestion, I wasn't aware that Little Dot had such a well regarded DAC. I am also considering purchasing one of the Pico DACs up for sale in the forum, I think the fact that they can couple straight to the back of the amp might be worth it. Plus, a USB cord lets me place the DAC and amp exactly where I want it, instead of being limited by my short optical cable. But, the question is, which would have better sound quality: the Little Dot DAC via optical, or the Pico via USB? Off to do research, thank you again!