duke43j;421389 Wrote: > I don't have a transporter, but I can bring the wine and snacks if you > can show me the difference between the SB3 analog out vs. an external > DAC. > I've been thinking about springing for an external DAC for quite a > while, but I am not sure if there will be $1K worth of improvement. I've > read all these great reviews of the Benchmark, so I was leaning toward > it. But the technology has improved since it first came out, and I would > think there must be equivalent (or better) DACs on the market at a lower > price. > > My system is -- SB3 or Rega Apollo CDP => VTL 2.5 pre => Classe CA-2100 > amp => Thiel CS2.4s. > > I like the sound of the Rega CDP, but I like the convenience of the > SB3. I would love to have both.
Duke Ive heard, but not listened extensively to the DAC1. I have done extensive auditioning of the transporter vs PS Audio DL-III. Clearly and I mean clearly audible, appreciable and noticeably better (more transparent, more controlled especially in the bass, more airy, and with more defined soundstage) the stock DL-III outperformed the transporter. You can now pick up a brand new DL-III from PS Audio for $699. I also did extensive A/B comparisons between the stock DL-III and my Cullen Stage IV upgraded DL-III. The Cullen DAC outperformed the stock unit in a way that was also noticeable and apparent (but not as noticeable as was the difference between the stock DL-III and the transporter). In terms of this hobbys typical diminishing returns, I believe that the additional $700 for the Stage IV upgrade is justifiable by the slight gains in fidelity. That said however, before you spring for the Cullen upgrade, I would suggest that you try to audition the stock unit with a Cullen unit. Hope this helps. -- timequest ------------------------------------------------------------------------ timequest's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=25640 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=36172
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