[juzmister]

It's time for a new source...I don't mind if it's balanced, going to be using it with my new electrostatic setup...What would you guys suggest? I don't need the DAC functionality of the 840c..

thanks!

 

[olblueyez]

price?

 

[juzmister]

$800-1000?

 

[xenithon]

What are your musical preferences?

Detailed, somewhat lean and cold: DAC1

Decent detail, warmer with more body: Apogee Mini-DAC

Smooth, detailed, dynamic: DA10

Wide soundstage, smoother: Aqvox Mk II

Clean, detailed, somewhat analytical: Stello DA100 Signature / DA220

 

[juzmister]

How does the 840c fit in there? The movement on the AUD today wasn't too nice...

 

[xenithon]

I heard it on a number of occassions, though have not had it in-house. The 840C I found detailed and articulate, but sterile (perhaps that is harsh, but I am trying to convery that it was not very musical IMO). I think a smoother, more musical and organic source would be far better suited to 'stats.

 

[majkel]

All in all the Northstar is a very good idea - a bit on the dark side, musical, with very nice timbre - my friend rated it so.

 

[juzmister]

Everything about it is awesome except for the currency movements!

 

[mrarroyo]

Have you given any thought to the Monarchy Audio NM24? Sometimes it is on sale for $1,080 in Audiogon.

 

[juzmister]

I prefer to make a local purchase of pre-currency move items...$1000USD is now $1600AUD...A few months ago it was $1040aud

 

[Dan Millheim]

The North Star is a fine Dac.!

 

[juzmister]

Do you guys think the North Star will be too muddy with a tube amp?

Thanks for all the suggestions so far!

 

[Dan Millheim]

I am using the North Star M192 with an Audio Horizons Tube Buffer (TB5.on) and it is killer with NOS Mullards.