[lcp12345]

I am looking for "upgrade". My current CDP is Meridian 208 (an old machine). I think the CDP as a transport is good enough. Hence, I am focused on an external DAC with balance out(to drive KK).

However, I don't know whether I can have enough money for a good CDP. Any machine? I listened to Orchestral work in most of the time.

 

[vcoheda]

apogee mini dac
benchmark dac1
lavry da10
PS Audio Digital Link III Audio DAC
stello da220
Electrocompaniet ECD1 DAC

all are considered good external dacs with balanced outputs.

 

[tbonner1]

I agree the Meridian is good as a transport and worth keeping.

 

[radio]

Quote:

Originally Posted by vcoheda /img/forum/go_quote.gif apogee mini dac benchmark dac1 lavry da10 PS Audio Digital Link III Audio DAC stello da220 Electrocompaniet ECD1 DAC all are considered good external dacs with balanced outputs.

forgot the vda2

 

[infinitesymphony]

All of those DACs will probably sound wonderful. Of course the biggest changes come with a switch in headphones or speakers, so if you're already happy with the sound you have now, a new DAC should give the system a minor boost.

I've been eyeing the Benchmark DAC-1 for a while. I like Benchmark's design philosophy, and the head engineer has discussed almost all aspects of the DAC in-depth with fellow Head-Fi members.