So… I’ve been using a PS Audio DAD Sr. MKI with upgraded output transformers as well as the JK power board with an external LPS. I love what I’m getting but I really want to step it up in terms of fidelity on the digital side. I’m in the beginning stages of considering an upgrade and would love your thoughts on what way to go. I have a few DACs listed below that I’m considering. Let me know your thoughts. Trying to keep it below $10k.
If your interested in staying with a similar voicing to Ted’s DACs then look at the new Aqua La Scala Mk III from TMR. I own another Aqua model as well as the May KTE and they both have a similar voicing to your current DAC. The Bartok would not and no idea about the new PMG.
Aside from I/O, supported sample rates, etc., each of those DACs you’ve listed have very different architectures. What is it about each of these DACs that has you interested in them? What does your music library look like - mostly PCM, DSD, both? Do you want onboard upsampling, or to do your own upsampling? Is 1-bit native DSD something you would be interested in? It’s hard to make a general recommendation as everyone will want to do something different.
I have experience with the others. Only the PMG DAC would be my choice. The MK2 is history. The Holo I owned I only hated when I listened to music with it. Awful. DCS makes me want to get out of the listening chair and go clean the garage. Most non-interesting sound second only to the May. The PMG Streamer/DAC looks wicked to me.
Honestly I’m not that much into tech for all of those questions. In general I’m looking for something that sounds analog and has more detail than the MKI allows. I don’t really have a music library so it will be streaming via tidal and quboz.
Good to know. I wasn’t aware the MKII was history. I saw the video of the PMG and it looked very interesting. I’m in no rush so waiting until others have it in hand is fine with me. Thanks for your input.
If you are also a headphone listener, I suggest you get the Bartok w/headphone. It’s remarkably good. I had one for a while and really liked it. Very little color added.
I chose #4, the PMG. Easy choice because no one has heard it. Wait if you can till some reporting comes in.
Can’t wait? Add a couple dollars to your max and
get a used Grimm MU2. Possibly the best value as you get great streaming and a decent preamp and only one cable and cord to get.
The MU2 offers a Statement level Preamp, Server, Streamer, and DAC in one swell small box. One power cable and one pair of interconnects to the Amp(s). It has an excellent headphone amp in it as well. And it is so Engaging!!! A listen all night piece.
What is this “used Grimm MU2” of which you speak? Sounds like the stuff of unicorns - very rarely spotted in the wild. In those rare cases where they are briefly sighted, they are known to disappear almost instantaneously. Owners of these MU2s are rumored to develop strong bonds with them based on the pleasure they bring and their all-in-one nature. As such, most are not inclined to part with them. Nonetheless, if the OP can bag a used MU2, it will truly be a trophy piece!
In this case, I wouldn’t write off the DS SR Mk2 just yet. I upgraded from the Mk1 to the Mk2. I heard more detail and a slightly better sound stage and more accurate instrumental timbre, but the overall sound was slightly warm or analogue, like the Mk1. As the new PMG DACs become available, you will almost certainly be able to get a DS SR Mk2 at a good price.
Note that I have not heard one of the upgraded Mk1s, which some people here claim are competitive with the Mk2.
you got my SW-10 to pair with SW-6, and I think you will be happy with PMG DAC if you have something to trade in. MU2 is nice, but there is a 10% tariff you need to pay in addition plus a long wait now. Trump is not happy with Europe and by the time MU2 is shipped, there could be higher tariff.
There was a group buy, but I am not sure if that is still valid now.
Wait if you can till some reporting comes in.
