DACs - Where are they??

Trying to predict which DACs will pair well with which amps is like trying to predict the winning Lotto numbers, but I suspect that the Bifrost may pair well with the Asgard - check out the Bifrost thread and ask there. Ultimately, if you choose a neutral, transparent amp the sound should reflect the quality of your DAC - anything else is only going to make your life more complicated.

Quote:

Originally Posted by preproman 

I have my eyes set on a few good amps ie.. SPL Auditor, Woo WA2, M1 HPA, Asgard and a few others.  But what are some DACs that will pair well with these amps.  Phones:  T1's, HD650's, Pro 900, Q701.

You got reference, euphonic, bass, and... studio monitor. No singular will DAC will pair well with all 4. If you like the reference/studio monitor sound and want more of it, Benchmark DAC1 and save yourself the money on the headphone amp. It's already got some good headphone jacks. If you like tube sound, Rega DAC. Other choices might be a Burson 160DS or well there are alot of other options depending on your price range.
 

what would be a good dac for the very neutral auditor? my dacmagic sounds awful with it. v harsh. 

is going full tube or semi-solid state with tube preamp in it a good option for 1000 dollar budget? 

Or are good tube dacs gona be more cash for a decent one? 

Im currently trying to get some examples besides the rega dac for a warm sound. Any impressions 

of the M-DAC by audiolab? 

THanks

Dan!