Single Wolfson WM8742 24-bit vs Dual Wolfson WM8740 24bit DAC - Which is Better?

[ryder78]

I was looking at the specs of the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 100 and DACMagic Plus. I prefer the tiny little shoebox of the DACMagic 100 but noticed that it comes with a single Wolfson WM8742 DAC chip whereas the bigger brother comes with dual Wolfson WM8742 DAC chips. On top of that, the DACMagic Plus has digital and analog filters.
 
It is apparent that the specs are different. I am well aware that all this is subjective and differences may be minimal but would appreciate if someone who has experience with these DACs can advise which unit is capable of a higher level playback.

Any advice appreciated.

 

[stv014]

It is hard to tell which one is better without actual measurements. Although I would not be surprised if both sounded the same in a blind test. "Dual DACs" is more of a snake oil feature than something that is necessary for good performance - a DAC can perform well with or without using dual chips.

 

[ryder78]

Thanks for the input. Much appreciated. Will not be getting the Cambridge Audio after all. Going after something else instead which is better looking and claimed to sound better.
 
Cheers.

 

[audiofan4life]

ryder78,  Care to tell us what your going after?

 

[Mauricio]

The DACMagic Plus uses two chips because, unlike the DACMagic 100, it provides for balanced output.

 

[anetode]

You don't need two dac chips for balanced out.

And ryder, while you may find a chip with better specs, the differences between (decently built) modern dacs are beyond the realm of audibility.

 

[bigshot]

The ipod has a Wolfson 8758 in it.

 

[stv014]

Quote:

The ipod has a Wolfson 8758 in it.

 
As far as I know, not all iPods use the same DAC chip, it depends on the exact model of iPod.

 

[bigshot]

That's the 5G classic