Best DAC sub $600

[admin_exported]

Ok im looking for a DAC sub $600.

I settled on a DacMagic but still got an eye on the CIAudio VDA-2.

What would "What Hi-Fi?" do on a sub $600 budget?

 

[Anonymous]

I had the chance to audition both the Berefesford dac and the CI Audio VDA-2 dac with the upgraded power supply.

I can tell you that the difference is night and day. The beresford is pretty good for its price point but it is not in the same league as the CI Audio dac. I would suggest that you bring your dacmagic to the shop the sells the VDA-2 and compare it for yourself.

The sound is more lively and engaging. Pretty impressive I must say.

 

[Gerrardasnails]

sound_wave:
I had the chance to audition both the Berefesford dac and the CI Audio VDA-2 dac with the upgraded power supply.

I can tell you that the difference is night and day. The beresford is pretty good for its price point but it is not in the same league as the CI Audio dac. I would suggest that you bring your dacmagic to the shop the sells the VDA-2 and compare it for yourself.

The sound is more lively and engaging. Pretty impressive I must say.

No USB port would be a no go for many.

 

[Anonymous]

I agree with you but USB is considered by many as anti-audiophile...

 

[Anonymous]

sound_wave:I agree with you but USB is considered by many as anti-audiophile...

Interesting article on s/pdif vs USB http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/USB-v-SPDIF

Claims no real difference, but notes that some manufacturers might be more familiar with one approach or the other

eg USB might be added on to an existing S/PDIF device to extend the potential market for it.

cheers

Gavin