[LevA]

Hey Guys,
 
What are some options for small-smallish (portable/transportable) DACs out there?
After selling my D10, now in search for a DAC and just trying to get some recommendations. I would like a decent DAC that I can use as transportable and be able to hook it up to decent desktop amps.  looking for price around ~$300~400..
so far only found Headroom Micro DAC. (and ultra micro dac though it's a bit out of my price range...)
It would be used with macbook pro so would like it to have optical option if possible but can do without if the usb is good enough. 
 
any suggestions??
 
thanks in advance

 

[High_Q]

uDAC.  there is no difference between optical and USB, they are both digital signals that has to be converted to analog by the DAC.  1 and 0s.  Difference may be delay, but not significant that humans can distinguish.

 

[LevA]

I have read positive remarks on the price / sound  of uDAC but was hoping to get something better...

 

[pekingduck]

Pico DAC?

 

[LevA]

Pico..
having just sold the D10 it seems like I would be getting something very similar, making it a redundant upgrade..

 

[cooperpwc]

The current Headroom Microdac does not run on batteries. It must be plugged in. Same with the Ultra Microdac. You may be able to find the old one (aka 2006 Microdac) in the FS forums. This is a serious audiophile desktop DAC that also runs on 9 volt batteries. (You wil only get about 7-9 hours per 9 volt battery.)

 

[LevA]

hey cooperpwc,
 
seems like recently we are running into each other a lot on the forums.  helping out with my enquiries to be more correct 

 
Will check the FS forum for the microdac 2006. 
though I am ok with non battery powered DACs. just can't have anything that is bulky and heavy as moving overseas early next year and rather not deal with it for now. 

 

[cooperpwc]

Good luck, LevA!  (I actually own the 2006 Microdac and while I am not currently using it, I am not selling it either. It's a good little beast.)

 

[LevA]

Thanks cooperpwc. 
I wouldn't sell them either. very nice to have it in portable!!

 

[EraserXIV]

the v-dac may fit your needs and has top notch sound quality.

 

[LevA]

yes v-dac is another option. sounds like its a good dac for it's price. 
I wonder how the micro dac compares to v-dac..? anyone tried the two?

 

[punkaroo]

Used Pico, or find a used Devilsound.