Do I need a DAC? I think I need help here.

[falang]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 003 I like the look of that one, is it better than the DAC-AH, MicroDAC, Esoteric D-500 and the Zhaulo D2? And is that power supply for $100 extra worth it? Anything else?

No idea. I'm a new, blank canvas to this insane subculture. I like the Spitfire because it looks transportable...as I move around a lot. I read a few reviews on head-fi on the spitfire and it was well-recieved...especially over its usb connected cousin, the fubar.

 

[falang]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 003 First of all, do you have links to those DACs you listed? Second, I would like to keep the DAC solid state please, the WA3 is enough Also, seems the Zahual is better than the spitfire according to this thread: http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=186147 I am also considering a Esoteric D-500, I can get one for $300 shipped, how is that? The headphones I will be using will be the K1000 only.

With regard to the Zhalou vs Spitfire comment...it doesn't really persuade me. Not really a comparative review...just a random comment from some dude.

To each their own.

 

[Absorbine_Sr]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thaddy Those units from Lite Audio look nice, but don't forget that shipping from overseas is going to cost quite a bit.

Order from Pacific Valve and the shipping is all US. Here's a link to their Lite stuff:

http://pacificvalve.us/LiTeGallery.html

I have a DAC-AH (unmodded) and am happy with it. You may want to look at their others as well.

A_Sr.

 

[003]

I have decided I am just going to get a Zhaulo D2. It's hard to beat for $168 and there are a lot of mods you can do to increase the SQ.

 

[Meyvn]

I LOVE my Zhaolu D2. I can tell you that it made a definite audible difference in my system, where a MicroDAC did not jump out at my when I first heard it. However, if $450 is your price range, you may also want to at least look into the Storm Digital D02, given its excellent reviews around here, and the price/value of its components.

 

[Teerawit]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Meyvn However, if $450 is your price range, you may also want to at least look into the Storm Digital D02, given its excellent reviews around here, and the price/value of its components.

It will be around $500 or so with shipping.

 

[003]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Meyvn you may also want to at least look into the Storm Digital D02, given its excellent reviews around here, and the price/value of its components.

I found the website selling that for $412 with $99 shipping, and I did a quick search of head-fi. Apparantley, from what I could make out, the prices will go up soon? How soon? And I read that it is going to be updated for the same price, has that already been done? This is a confusing DAC, can somebody bring me up to speed with what is going on with it and it's status?

 

[003]

I just ordered a Storm Digital D02, because it seems the price is going to go up in the next few days. Total was $511. As usual, I end up spending more than double my indicated price. I hate you all. This thing better impress me

 

[Teerawit]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 003 I just ordered a Storm Digital D02

Cool. Let us know how it sounds

Quote:

As usual, I end up spending more than double my indicated price. I hate you all. This thing better impress me

I didn't do it....

That thing is a beauty. If you don't like it, it will easily retain most of its value.

 

[003]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Teerawit I didn't do it....

I know, it was directed to the people who influenced me into spending more money

 

[replytoken]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 003 I hate you all. This thing better impress me

Given what happened in the last thread where this was the main topic of discussion, do you have a plan on how to handle the situation if you are not impressed?

I say this because I am again considering a source upgrade (including a possible DAC), and each time I consider any type of upgrade, I am even more cautious given all that can happen. Good synergy can often be very elusive. I wish you all the best.

P.S. FWIW - Channel Islands Audio (http://www.ciaudio.com/) has a DAC in the same price range with a 30 day trial & 10% re-stocking fee. It has received very good press on AudioAsylum.