DAC Question - Diminishing Returns?

[admin_exported]

Hi,

I am looking at DACs and I just want to get my head around at what point is spending more, not going to equate to any noticeable gain? It has to depend on the rest of your setup I assume? I am using an Oppo BDP83 player, Musical Fidelity M6i amp and B&W CM9 speakers.

Here is a list of DACs as an example, from low to high price:

Arcam R DAC, Musical Fidelity M1, Naim DAC, Chord QBD76

I know this is subjective (isn't everything in audio) but in your opinions, at what point in the DACs above do my speakers fit as far as hitting the glass ceiling? Is there a rule of thumb for spend %?

 

[drummerman]

I haven't heard any of the DAC's nor any component of your system but the percentage you spend on any part of the system is worth the perceived change so is, as you rightly say, totally subjective. From an aesthetic point of view and probably from one of synergy too, the MF option seems entirely reasonable though.

As always, my opinion only.

 

[Ajani]

I'd opt for the M1 as I think synergy should be the primary concern...

Also, I don't believe there is a rule of thumb for spending, you'd really need to audition a component in your system to know if it is worth the extra money...

 

[Al ears]

Between the M1 and Naim you should stick the Stello DA100 Signature and go for that.

Have a listen of course but they really are brilliant for the price.

PS There is one on the 'bay going cheap at the moment - a veritable bargain!

 

[Singslinger]

Ajani:
I'd opt for the M1 as I think synergy should be the primary concern...

Also, I don't believe there is a rule of thumb for spending, you'd really need to audition a component in your system to know if it is worth the extra money...

Agree with Ajani and Drummerman - I'd go with the M1 DAC. Actually, I own it and am very happy with its performance, which I find to be a significant improvement over my previous DAC, the Cambridge Audio DacMagic.

I haven't heard the Naim DAC though, which I imagine would also sound fantastic...but for significantly more money than the M1...