DAC - Most confusing component to upgrade

[Brewmaster]

Thanks agian for all the feedback.

I just ordered the parts for the Opus DAC after researching this option and a few others. If I like the sound I'm going to build a nice case to match my Darkvoice.

I think I have to block the head-fi IP address in my router. My wallet keeps getting lighter.

 

[milkweg]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RasmusseN /img/forum/go_quote.gif DAC's are very important and can change the sound more than amps

I jst made a thread about this. I hear no difference between AK DAC and Cirrus DAC but I can hear the difference between my three amps.

 

[Comfy]

My experience with DACs goes like this:

Average soundcard to E-MU 0404: Clear improvement, but not mindblowing.
E-MU 0404 to Zhaolu 1.3 with upgrades:
Almost mindblowing improvement.
Zhaolu 1.3 to Lavry DA10:
Clear improvement, not mindblowing.

So, depending on your budget, I'd recommend the Zhaolu (Zero?) or the Lavry. I don't know how much improvement I could here beyond the Lavry's capabilities.

If your budget is <200USD, go for the Zhaolu.
If your budget is closer to 1000USD, go for the Lavry.

Both have also interesting headamps built-in.