[squishware]

The current signal path is  Yamaha CD-S300 directly into my La Figaro 332C then to my 600 Ohm Beyer DT880 or Ubuntu PC>Fiio E10>La Figaro 332C>DT880s. I have been reading the forum a lot and have a hankering to try the Stealth DC-1 by Emotiva. I am wondering if anyone is familiar with the synergy of that lineup. I am also wondering if the amp can drive the 880s to a workable level as a backup. Thanks for any and all (helpful) replies.

 

[lin0003]

What budget do you have? 
 
Mid-Fi can be a $1000 DAC to some people and a $100 one to others. 

 

[wnmnkh]

If he is thinking about Emotiva DC-1, his budget is probably around 500.
 
Good other candidates are Schiit Bifrost ($320~500), Essence HDACC ($700) or Cambridge Audio Dacmagic original/100/Plus (btw I am currently selling the original version of Dacmagic). I am currently using Bifrost (with Uber analog and USB) most of the time.
 
Do not concern over the synegy or sound of the DAC... Most DACs are transparent. Headphones and amplifiers are the ones making the biggest difference.

 

[lin0003]

I would go for the DACMagic Plus. I have one and it sounds great. 

 

[squishware]

Around $500.

 

[fabio-fi]

HRT MusicStreamer II+
Mycro Mega DAC
Schiit's bifrost with Uber

 

[Spiral Out]

The ODAC is also a very solid performer. It is dependent on the quality of USB power of your computer, as is any USB powered DAC. I have read quite a few comparisons that state it is as good or better than the MusicStreamer II+ and the stock Bifrost for half the price. In my system it has a good synergy with the DT880. 

 

[lljayll]

  Around $500.

Read this thread: 
 
http://www.head-fi.org/t/690549/beresford-bushmaster-tc-7530-and-bushmaster-mkii-tc-7533-comparison-impressions
 
Not many people know about this DAC. I paid $270 shipped for mine. It has an amazing price to performance ratio.