[remilard]

I am budgeting $1000 to upgrade my source and my amp, I intend to use digital out on my soundcard mostly and maybe sometimes on my DV-563a so I figure my options are:

1. AOS Pace
2. Grace 901 used
3. Ack! Dack + < $475 amp
4. Benchmark DAC1

Am I missing any good options? A stand alone DAC can't be much more than $500 or I wouldn't have money for an amp.

Also I don't know what the pricing will be but AOS is announcing a for later this year. Grand Pace. I won't be making this purchase until the end of the year anyway (I figure early research can't hurt) so if this isn't too much over $1000 I might stretch the budget for it.

eta: Benchmark, I thought the price was higher on this so obviously at $975 it is a contender.

 

[dip16dac]

I can recommend the Benchmark DAC1 as both source and amp. It sounds great on my 563A and soundcard.

 

[dip16dac]

Even though it is listed for $975 on all web sites, you can get it for less by calling and asking them for their lowest price. Then ask for free shipping as well. Call at least three different places.

 

[NightWoundsTime]

For warm/relaxed sound go dAck! and a Singlepower PPX3 (great for jazz, classical, vocals). For a harder edged/bright sound go with Benchmark.