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misterharrison
04-04-2012, 10:37
Hi all

I was recently given an Airport Express which I am using to stream music to my second system in my bedroom. I now want to take a step up by adding a DAC with a volume control, as the only amp I have in that system is a power amp (Bryston 2BSST). The system (Bryston amp/JBL L65s) can be a little forward and 'in-your-face' so something with a more laid-back sound might be more suitable.

A quick look on various forums and that auction site have revealed choices at various price-points:

£140 Zero DAC (Chinese but seems to be well made)
£189 Audio Gd NFB-12
£240 Beresford 7520SE
£250 Matrix Mini-i
£299 Audio Gd NFB-5
£350 Emotiva XDA1
£365 NuForce Icon HDP
£399 Cambridge Audio DACMagic Plus

Does anyone have any experience of any of these or perhaps an alternative suggestion around this price level (i.e. £400 max)?

StanleyB
04-04-2012, 10:52
£240 Beresford 7520SE

I can do you the far better TC-7520SEG Gatorized Caiman with the latest Silmic mod upgrade plus shipping to Lisbon for less than that since you are an AoS member. PM me if interested.

misterharrison
04-04-2012, 11:03
I can do you the far better TC-7520SEG Gatorized Caiman with the latest Silmic mod upgrade plus shipping to Lisbon for less than that since you are an AoS member. PM me if interested.
That was quick! PM for you.

AlfaGTV
04-04-2012, 13:52
£140 Zero DAC (Chinese but seems to be well made)


Have had mine for something like three years and it is absolutely flawless with its price in mind. Recently compared with my Benchmark DAC1 (which is another option for your list) i and my friend was barely able to tell there was a difference. I have changed the OP Amp in my into an National Semiconductor LME 49990, but you may insert whatever you like.
I had a BB OPA627 originally. Another well behaved one is the LME49720HA/NA where the HA is a little more costly but does sound better.

Very nice HP amp also...
BR /Mike

misterharrison
04-04-2012, 17:39
Thanks for sharing your Zero DAC experiences, Mike. I must say, at that price it's extremely tempting!