[Telynau]

See if you can stretch for a Benchmark USB DAC -- go used if you need to. It is a far more sophisticated DAC, a very good headphone amp and the company provides strong user support. It is built for pro use, so it will last a very long time and will hold its value while others fade into oblivion. I own several USB DAC's and even though I prefer a far more expensive one (the Cosecant V3 from Wavelength Audio) I enjoy listening to the Benchmark every time I fire it up (it is in a second system). Regards, James

 

[cooperpwc]

This thread isn't complete without mentioning USB Monica. Lovely organic DAC - Non-OS makes sense. (The new touted RWA tube amp uses a non-OS DAC...)

I have to say though that the new Pico DAC with RCA outs sounds very interesting. I love small high quality solutions.

 

[wilsynet]

AudioSector USB DAC can be had for around $400. It is an excellent NOS DAC; definitely one of my favourites.

 

[jenneth]

CIAudio VDA-2 is another good choice.

 

[LarryK2]

You can't go wrong with the WooAudio 6 (or 3 for that matter). I'm looking for a DAC myself - using the Silverstone EB01 now.

 

[Aura]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Telynau /img/forum/go_quote.gif See if you can stretch for a Benchmark USB DAC -- go used if you need to. It is a far more sophisticated DAC, a very good headphone amp and the company provides strong user support. It is built for pro use, so it will last a very long time and will hold its value while others fade into oblivion. I own several USB DAC's and even though I prefer a far more expensive one (the Cosecant V3 from Wavelength Audio) I enjoy listening to the Benchmark every time I fire it up (it is in a second system). Regards, James

The DAC1 is just slightly under the Cambridge 840C in terms of price, but farther below in quality. For a modern DAC, I would suggest the 840C above most everything else for under $1,500.

The DACMagic is worth trying out for budget, along with the Apogee Duet (if you have a mac) or the Headamp Pico DAC-only (when it is released).