I want to upgrade my audio chain and would appreciate your input. Right now my chain is Tidal on MBP > Focusrite Scarlett > Amiron Wireless (wired), and Focal Elex are on the way. I was looking for consensus on good DAC/AMP combos around $500 and came up to the SMSL M500 and Sabaj D5. Will I notice a better sound (more detailed, spaced and balanced)?
I later started reading that "well engineered" DACs sound all the same and only differ in features (file formats, I/O, etc...) and considered getting the Khadas Tone Board with a Monoprice THX 789 or SMSL SP200. I ran into the RME ADI-2 DAC, but it exceeds my budget.
What would you think is the better option?
Can you recommend something else based on the parameters?
I later started reading that "well engineered" DACs sound all the same and only differ in features (file formats, I/O, etc...) and considered getting the Khadas Tone Board with a Monoprice THX 789 or SMSL SP200. I ran into the RME ADI-2 DAC, but it exceeds my budget.
What would you think is the better option?
Can you recommend something else based on the parameters?
