[wolfetan44]

Looking for a DAC in the $500 range. Single-ended, and I listen to psychedelic rock and electronic and indie rock. 

 

[wolfetan44]

Forgot to add, it needs to be USB. I'm thinking the Schiit Bifrost USB, any better that are out there?

 

[HPiper]

I am looking for the same thing, except for the usb part. I have it narrowed down to the Bifrost, Cambridge DAC100, or Emotiva xda-2. Other than looks and small price differences they all seem to be very good dacs. The Bifrost is slightly cheaper, but the Emotiva has a built in headphone amp, having said that though I really like the looks of the DAC100. Maybe they need to add a few more leds and a display to the Bifrost <g>.
 

 

[hodgjy]

You can get the V-DAC II and PSU II for about $500.  You're not going to do much better than this combo until you break the $1000 barrier. 

 

[Lorspeaker]

check this out too...
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/dac/NFB2.1/NFB2.1EN.htm

 

[Happy Camper]

I've not heard it but the reviews are worth the search and extra time to save. http://www.johnkenny.biz/home-1/jkdac32

don't let looks deceive you. This thing performs multiples above it's price according to some serious comparisons. Technology is cutting edge and bare bones minimalist simplicity.

 

[wolfetan44]

I want a very versatile DAC that can work with a lot of headphones. I'll read up on all recommended.

 

[gibbro]

I can recommend a YULONG D100
 

 

[R-Audiohead]

Quote:

I can recommend a YULONG D100
 

This will be tough to beat, and it gives you balanced operation if/when you decide to upgrade to an amp that can utilize it.
 
And you'll get an amp with it that isn't half bad

 

[EraserXIV]

Yulong D100, Parasound Zdac, Etmovia XDA-2, Tube-DAC11. These are all jam-packed with features and versatility. I have only heard the D100 and it sounds really good, can't say anything about the others.
 
Concero is worth looking at too if features aren't as important. Haven't heard it but reviews are positive.