[gregr507]

Is there a better choice than the HRT music streamer II? That's what I'm leaning towards now, any others I should consider?
 
Also, would spending more money on the DAC help all that much? I have heard the msII is good bang for your buck, but it wouldn't hold back my cans or amp, would they? I'd like to order soon so I'd appreciate any input, thanks!

 

[OmarCCX]

A couple of good choices under $200: Schiit Modi and the ODAC.

 

[westinlennox]

I just purchased the Schiit Modi, and I have fallen in love with it.  I got a buddy to purchase one within 24 hours of owning it.  You can't go wrong with it for $98.

 

[gregr507]

I was looking at the Modi, it looks nice but I'm willing to spend a bit more. How does it compare to the HRT music streamer II, which is $180? (vs $100 for Modi)
 
I'll certainly look into the ODAC as well

 

[gregr507]

OK after looking around a bit more I'm between the ODAC and the modi. Any thoughts on these with my setup?
 
And is there anything available closer to the 200-250 range that would be significantly better than those two? Thanks in advance!!

 

[Tman5293]

Quote:

OK after looking around a bit more I'm between the ODAC and the modi. Any thoughts on these with my setup?
 
And is there anything available closer to the 200-250 range that would be significantly better than those two? Thanks in advance!!

 
As far as I know, you can't really beat those two DACs unless you jump up to the $300-$400 price range. I personally recommend getting the Modi. 

 

[HamilcarBarca]

Quote:

OK after looking around a bit more I'm between the ODAC and the modi. Any thoughts on these with my setup?
 
And is there anything available closer to the 200-250 range that would be significantly better than those two? Thanks in advance!!

 
For more money, you can get more inputs or other useful features. If you're looking for a neutral DAC, you can't beat the sound of an ODAC at $200 or $200,000. The Modi, from its reviews, probably equals it and it's less expensive to boot.

 

[gregr507]

Modi is on it's way, thanks guys!

 

[OmarCCX]

Enjoy it man!

 

[westinlennox]

Great decision, you won't be disappointed.  You really do have to reach a lot higher in cost to beat it.

 

[gregr507]

I know I already ordered the modi, but just out of curiosity, specifically what differences would I hear upgrading to a bifrost? I'm still a bit in the dark as to how DAC's (if they are supposed to be neutral) really affect the sound much

 

[HamilcarBarca]

Quote:

I know I already ordered the modi, but just out of curiosity, specifically what differences would I hear upgrading to a bifrost? I'm still a bit in the dark as to how DAC's (if they are supposed to be neutral) really affect the sound much

 
A proper DAC (including the ODAC, MusicStreamer, Benchmark DAC1, and a number of others, apparently including the Modi) won't affect the sound at all.. An inferior DAC will change the sound in its own way depending on the particular flaw(s) in its design.

 

[fcpchop88]

so what has your opinion been on the modi with the crack? I ask because I'm going to be in a similar situation but thinking I might need to upgrade from the modi