For electrostatics, which 1K source?

[blessingx]

Contemplating a source specifically for a SRM-007/Lambda Pro/Sig setup. Looking at the normal suspects - DAC1, DA100 Sig and DA10, which I had previously. Would be used with a computer (with USB & optical) or through a Squeezebox. Haven't used a dedicated CDP for years. Does anyone have suggestions otherwise or comments on that trilogy of choices? Find the Stello interesting, but reports of a darker signature may not make create the best synergy. Anyway appreciative for your advice. May get a chance to try, but looking for longer term impressions, especially with electrostatics. Figure budget $800-1,000. And no that doesn't extend to 'twice that.'

[postjack]

840C. It's high resolution at it's price range pairs very well with stats.

[n_maher]

840C. It's high resolution at it's price range pairs very well with stats.

shill

it's the new MOT doncha know...

[aardvark baguette]

[cclragnarok]

If you want something with a leaner sound than the Stello, I think the VDA-2 might be worth a try.

[tkam]

The DA100 Signature looks interesting, and even has an i2s input for the matching transport that's available. Another option might be the PS Audio Digital Link III or if your willing to go used something like this: Meridian 566

[Dusty Chalk]

I've heard nothing but good things...

...from Postjack...

...about the 840c, though I haven't heard one, myself.

[n_maher]

I've heard nothing but good things...

...from Postjack...

...about the 840c, though I haven't heard one, myself.

We don't like vague "I've heard" type statements.

[Dusty Chalk]

Exactly.

[iceman94]

I really like my Northstar M192 (first version) that I got for roughly around $1k, but I have nothing to compare it to. It's another option, at least. I use it with a Trends USB thing as a transport.

[deepak]

I really like my Northstar M192 (first version) that I got for roughly around $1k, but I have nothing to compare it to. It's another option, at least. I use it with a Trends USB thing as a transport.

Do you notice a difference when upsampling is turned on or turned off? Rare to find another Northstar M192 MK1 owner, so I'm just curious.

[spritzer]

I haven't tried a whole lot of DAC's but the AudioZone DAC1 is here to stay in my computer rig. It retails for 1400$ but can be had for much less used. It does only have one BNC input but a RCA adapter is cheap or you can use something like the Trends UD-10.1 which I just ordered. It's smooth, extended and doesn't suffer from the horrible digital haze of the Benchmark or so many other new digital products all out to impress.

[blessingx]

I kinda like to be impressed.

[spritzer]

I kinda like to be impressed.

Wuss!!!! ...

Impressive will never last and can often become annoying in the end.

[aardvark baguette]

x2. I like my DAC to get the hell out of the way.

[spritzer]

If you want an impressive DAC get a Zero and listen to all the reasons why it costs only 100$...

[iceman94]

Do you notice a difference when upsampling is turned on or turned off? Rare to find another Northstar M192 MK1 owner, so I'm just curious.

Haven't had the chance to fool around with it. I also don't have a headphone amp right now, and I doubt I'd hear anything different with my speakers in my current situation. Maybe I can get back in a few months' time.

[Fing]

I'm using a MHDT Havana (upgrade to the Paradisea+) and it uses a non-OS DAC with no digital filters or op-amps. Specs here: MHDT Havana website

I also own a Paradisea+ which is well regarded and imho it's quite a bit better, which it should be, for the price. I told Purk I reckon it's about 30% better - perhaps it isn't, but the added enjoyment it provides me when I listen to it is around that level.

It does present a very full and detailed sound, with very good spatial separation. I use it with my SP Extreme Platinum and L3000 at work, via the USB input. Very happy with it.

It costs about $900 + shipping if ordered direct.

[dvse]

I would suggest staying away from the Benchmark - with those Lambdas you will really hear why people complain about its treble harshness.

I used to have it with SRM-717 and SR-404 / Lambda Signature and was never happy with that system. Not that the DA10 was much better, but at least not as fatiguing.

[postjack]

I'm using a MHDT Havana (upgrade to the Paradisea+) and it uses a non-OS DAC with no digital filters or op-amps. Specs here: MHDT Havana website

I also own a Paradisea+ which is well regarded and imho it's quite a bit better, which it should be, for the price. I told Purk I reckon it's about 30% better - perhaps it isn't, but the added enjoyment it provides me when I listen to it is around that level.

It does present a very full and detailed sound, with very good spatial separation. I use it with my SP Extreme Platinum and L3000 at work, via the USB input. Very happy with it.

It costs about $900 + shipping if ordered direct.

So the Paradisea is the real deal huh? I might end up picking up one of these for my desktop rig in the future.