Upgrading DAC-Suggestions?

[digger945]

I couldn't agree more with computerparts recommendations. A solid transport is absolutely necessary to get the most out of any dac, unless you're using something like the QB-9. For my async usb to spdif converters and better coax have really transformed my dac into something I really love to listen to every day now. I am using the Stereovox XV2 and Apogee Wyde Eye(many consider the Apogee a bargain for the sq improvements and I agree) with the Musiland 02US and just recieved the Halide Bridge ( I know, it's kinda over budget) which doesn't need cables on either end, and omg you wouldn't believe me if I tried to explain the difference async makes to my system. It really brings me down a notch when I listen now and makes me think that I have never really heard most of the music that I've listened to for years.
 
I'm not trying to push. For me it's a listen-for-yourself-and-see-if-you-like-it kinda hobby.

 

[stang]

Hmm I suppose I should stick with my Zero for now then. Flat out broke now, hence I wanted some good ideas before I got the money to upgrade (as I would blow it on something else, like this time haha). Bought the Playstation 1 out of curiosity. I will still be at my computer a lot more though, so I am planning on sticking to that as far as upgrading goes. So you guys reckon upgrading my interconnects and transport is a good idea, yeah? Are my Audioquest KingCobra's good? Cost me about $100 (just wanted good looking and goo sounding interconnects for around that price and was barely into head-fi at the time). 
 
Which of these should I be looking at for the best bang for buck upgrade?
 
Power cable
RCA interconnects
Coaxial cable
Transport
 
I am planning on selling some stuff and raising about $200 from it. Gonna see if I can work with my uncle for a few days over the school holidays in 2 weeks (for 2 weeks too). Get $50 per day for that (panel beating 

). So in about a month, my budget will most likely be $350-$450. 
 
Thanks for the suggestions so far. I will continue to look on Audiogon for some good deals. 
 
edit: sorry for the ignorance, but if my motherboard has coaxial out, is there any point of getting a quality USB to coax adaptor (like hag usb or HiFace)? Or is that ONLY beneficial for people who only have computers that have USB out? Would it provide any sound quality upgrade over my onboard coaxial out?

 

[digger945]

Hag is iso. Hiface is async using software/drivers. There is a difference.

 

[ambush276]

people forget a lot about the Lite Dac AM. This would be at the high end of your budget and it has the Coax/optical input... its also balanced output and also RCA so great for future upgrades if needed. Great Dac.
 
 
http://www.pacificvalve.us/LTDACAM.html

 

[falis]

I have a PS-1 and it's surprisingly good for what it is, but the DAC I recommended earlier in the thread is better.  No coax? Use the USB in.
 
- Ed
 
Quote:

Well right now I use a pair of 1M Audioquest King Cobra RCAs and a knuconceptz Coaxial cable.  I was thinking of upgrading to a better power cord, but wouldn't a new DAC, transport etc be a more beneficial upgrade? An aftermarket power cable will set me back about $140. As far as CD players go, I always prefer to see the albums, artists etc, like on a computer and my PS3. I know CD players will have superior sound quality, but it isn't really practical for me. I do plan on buying an original Playstation 1 # SCPH-1001 to use with my DT880 or speakers, as they are supposed to have really, really good sound quality, so maybe from that I will get used to constantly inserting CDs. 
 
But apart from that, which DAC would be a good recommendation? Right now I have an entry level DAC (Zero), and want to step up to something like a mid-level DAC (unless you classify the Gamma2 as high end).