Build Quality:
Keces > Dacmagic
The 151 is built like a tank. It has a nice power supply built in and the smoked plexi glass is a nice touch. The DacMagic is nice as well, but the power supply is a merely passable and there is no way to upgrade it. I like that you can put it on the side to save desktop space. I was one of the unlucky few that got static issues with the DacMagic (others have reported high pitched noises as well) while people in the UK got faulty power supply units (they outsourced to the wrong company apparently), this has impacted my decision in regards to the build quality unfortunately.
Versatility:
DacMagic > Keces 151
We have USB for the 152 or you have to purchase the 131 for optical/coax. Also, the Keces DACs only have one output option through RCAs. The DacMagic on the other hand has multiple inputs (3 if you include the USB), and two outputs, RCA and XLR. Nice to have those there. I can imagine someone could hook up their computer, Xbox 360, PS3, CD Player, etc. to the DacMagic and use multiple audio sources.
Sound:
(no verdict)
Sound is subjective. I found that the highs, vocals, and midrange, were very pronounced in the DacMagic. It has an almost analytical feel to it. The bass was tight but not overbearing. Good clean bass, quick attack. Overall, it was quite versatile. I'd say it's more versatile with different genres over the Keces, but I don't feel like it "shines" with anything in particular either.
The Keces I found has a more musical tone to it. The bass is a bit deeper. It seems more natural. I also found the that instrument decay is nicer with this DAC. The resonance of guitars is very pleasant. It might not be that analytical (this could be a good or bad thing depending on your view), but it shines when it comes to being musical. Dead quiet, deep bass, and nice instrument decay. A bit lacking in the highs though.
Conclusion:
I used to think I preferred the music I listen to be more on the analytical side of things, but I think overall I'd rather have something considered "warm" and musical. It all boils down to your tastes. You could research this stuff all day and even try to base it on the genres you listen to, features (upsample, oversample, NOS, tube, opamp, etc.), reputation, etc. but there's no easy answer.
The only way to find out which kind of DAC works for you is to listen to as many as you can (meetups are ideal for this) until you land on the one that conforms to your preferences. Buy one of the DACs listed (new or used, up to you), try it out for a while. If you don't like it, then sell it on the forums (if it's a newer DAC you'll get back a good portion of your investment). I almost re-bought a Fubar II (my first DAC) because after hearing some of the more expensive ones, I came to the conclusion that it was still a decent DAC for my speakers. |
