Any suggestions for DAC + AMP for AKG 702

[phantomfx]

I have just brought an AKG 702 in last week. At first I push it by connecting it directly with my entry level cd player denon dcd-700 . I found the quality of that wasn't satisfactory and somehow the sound was too bassy and nt satisfactory. I really want to make a decent upgrade by connecting them with an dac and amplifier with it. I used to listen to jazz and pop music and can somebody recommend something for a total budget less than $1000. Thank you.

 

[Alai]

You want DAC and Amp combo or separate?

 

[swayne]

If you can afford it then the Meier Audio Symphony. If not then the do a Cantate for less than half the price.

Or you could do a search for DAC AMP in this forum.

Steven.

 

[phantomfx]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alai /img/forum/go_quote.gif You want DAC and Amp combo or separate?

Actually I prefer them to be seperated if it is within my budget.
From wt i heard, the performance of a combined solution is usually nt as gd as a seperate set.

 

[swayne]

Quote:

Originally Posted by phantomfx /img/forum/go_quote.gif Actually I prefer them to be seperated if it is within my budget. From wt i heard, the performance of a combined solution is usually nt as gd as a seperate set.

There's a funny thing. I heard the exact opposite and that a combined DAC/AMP is better.

I guess you'll have to make up your own mind.

Steven.

 

[Digger2]

Why not start with a good amp from the CD and then decide if you need a seperat DAC.

 

[phantomfx]

Quote:

Originally Posted by swayne /img/forum/go_quote.gif There's a funny thing. I heard the exact opposite and that a combined DAC/AMP is better. I guess you'll have to make up your own mind. Steven.

Maybe you are right as less connections are present for a combined solution. However, I thought that a combined solution usually put a higher emphasis on either the amp part or the dac part. On the other hand, a seperate dac and amp will have a better focus on their functions. Please correct my misunderstandings as I am a newbie to these things.

 

[Alai]

Quote:

Originally Posted by phantomfx /img/forum/go_quote.gif Maybe you are right as less connections are present for a combined solution. However, I thought that a combined solution usually put a higher emphasis on either the amp part or the dac part. On the other hand, a seperate dac and amp will have a better focus on their functions. Please correct my misunderstandings as I am a newbie to these things.

There's no general rule, in my opinion. It's all in your preference and exactly WHICH DAC and/or AMP you get. Obviously some solutions (Total Bithead, imho) are inferior, while others (Mini3 with Go-Vibe Mini USB DAC) are a bit nicer sounding.

All depends on which individual products you buy.

So for the amp, grab a Heed, Shanling PH100, Stello HP100, Bada 12, WA6, Darkvoice 332/336, Beta 22 (for DIY), Millet MAXX, or some other ones that I can't think of right now. When I remember, I will post again.

For DAC, just get some really well known solid ones... there are a couple Oritek, Prometheus, DAC1, and some other 400-500 USD DACs floating around in the FS forums. Any of those will do.