Standalone DAC to better Arcam AVP

[gregvet]

My source is lossless files from the Apple TV.

My amp is an Arcam AV9/P7.

 

My speakers will soon be PMC (unless I change my mind pre purchase).

 

I would really like to benefit from the stereo direct function of the Arcam, in which case I need analogue inputs into the processor. This got me thinking that a standalone DAC could be a good idea (fed the optical out of the Apple TV).

 

What kind of level would I need to get to equal/improve on the DAC in the Arcam? NO point improving the quality of amplification (with the stereo direct function) only to loose out on the digital to analogue conversion!

 

Whaddya all think? I am assuming that DacMagic wont cut it, but happy to be proved wrong! 

 

 

 

[Anonymous]

which Pmc's are you thinking oy buying?

 

[gregvet]

Well I love the GB1i's but I would really like the FB1s. Nowhere near me stocks them so I have never heard them however, and am very reluctant to spend £2000 on speakers I have never heard. I am also a bit concerned they will be too big for my room.

ÿ

Anyway, anyone know how good I would need to go to improve on the inbuilt DACs of the Arcam AV9?ÿ

 

[John Duncan]

gregvet:Anyway, anyone know how good I would need to go to improve on the inbuilt DACs of the Arcam AV9?

For £4,000-odd quid, I'd want the DACs in the Arcam to be pretty bloody good. I hear you about analogue direct, but I think you'd have to spend Big Money for it to be worth it......

But if you're spending the sort of money required (£1k up), the dealer will lend it to you to hear in your own system before you part with your hard earned.