[wakeride74]

Ok, I've decided to return my DAC1 USB. I like it and think that it has a nice sound with the PS-1 but I just can't swallow the price tag. I know there are things I'm paying for that I'll never use, such as the headphone amp.

The threads I've seen on the VDA-2 seems like it compares favorably to the bigger players like the DAC1 and DA10. My question is if I go PC > HAG USB > VDA-2/VAC-1 > Lisa III > PS-1 is this going to be a good set-up? Will it be a downgrade? Will the HAG USB throw a wrench in the DAC's SQ?

Don't get me wrong the DAC1 is a very nice one stop shop but it's not wowing me and I think that is probably because of what I'm expecting for $1300.

 

[MGLDyson]

I just got a VDA-2 and have been thoroughly enjoying it. It is not burned in yet and I don't have high-end interconnects or a high end amp (Corda MOVE). But man is it nice. I just read some reviews before I bought mine and like you said, it compared favorably with the more expensive options. Also, a lot of people have recommended the VDA-2 over the DAC1 for whatever reason.

So, I can't tell you how it compares to the DAC1 but I can tell you that I am really happy with mine. I don't even have the VAC-1 PSU to go with it (yet!).

BTW, I run mine from my Audigy 2 via coax out and my XBOX360 via optical. I may misunderstand you but it doesn't have a USB port on it. I am not familiar with the HAG USB of which you speak.

Anyway, that's my two cents.

 

[warrior05]

Quote:

Originally Posted by wakeride74 /img/forum/go_quote.gif PC > HAG USB > VDA-2/VAC-1 > Lisa III > PS-1

That sounds like one very nice set-up, sir! I wouldn't be too concerned at all.

 

[slwiser]

You also have a neat growth path to a balanced setup using the CIAudio products like SE138 has done. Have you checked out his balanced setup?

Attempting to answer you quality question, I do not think you will notice a difference.

 

[wakeride74]

Thanks guys! Keep the opinions coming!

 

[mrarroyo]

Any particular reason you will be using a HAG USB? I mean why not get an inexpensive card like the Chaintech to get an optical out to the CI dac?

 

[wakeride74]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrarroyo /img/forum/go_quote.gif Any particular reason you will be using a HAG USB? I mean why not get an inexpensive card like the Chaintech to get an optical out to the CI dac?

Because I'd have no idea what to do with it

I'm not a tech guy at all... plug n play is all I do when it comes to that stuff.

I've read good things about the HAG USB, do you not like it?

 

[jenhwa]

almost there, but the CI Audio does not have a complete balanced solution.
their power amps/dac have balanced but sadly not their preamps.

Quote:

Originally Posted by slwiser /img/forum/go_quote.gif You also have a neat growth path to a balanced setup using the CIAudio products like SE138 has done. Have you checked out his balanced setup? Attempting to answer you quality question, I do not think you will notice a difference.

 

[SK138]

VDA2/VAC is a wonderful sounding DAC. It has the best treble energy I heard among many DAC I use to own in the past. Since I exclusively use HD650/HD580, the synergy is just out of this world....plus, going balanced scales the HD650 to another level.

I placed two VHP2/VAC in with 0 and 180 phase RCA balanced connections creating a very nice balanced system. This concept can be done with any two matching amps...say two Lisa III amps

There is also a matter of recabling the headphone to terminate in two TRS 1/4 stereo plugs.


Quote:

Originally Posted by jenhwa /img/forum/go_quote.gif almost there, but the CI Audio does not have a complete balanced solution. their power amps/dac have balanced but sadly not their preamps.