DAC preamp with XLR output? Schiit, Topping, etc. or should I DIY?

[Architect7]

[DDF]

If you're willing to try a different class D, I use this in office 2.1:
http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NPIDA8

It sounds great.

Also have an Ncore with this pre,
http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo...umber=NPDAC10H

Haven't heard a UCD but my 9018 based pre+ncore is less forgiving if more detailed that the IDA-8 which i find perfect for the office

[cacophonix]

I used the DC-1 till recently, and its a great preamp/DAC. The headphone output is so-so, but otherwise, its a mighty fine unit. You can get it for ~$300 used, and they should serve you for a long long time.

[bill poster]

Altho not a fan of ESS chips, a s/h Sonica wd be a good bet. Or a Bluesound Node 2 perhaps? Both can be used as pre amps Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[Architect7]

Thanks everyone, I think I've decided on the Topping DX7s when it is released. Picked up another (3rd) TEAC AG-H550 to hold me over while I wait for the Topping and rewire my Hypex amp.

[dst]

Do you want a remote control? That narrows the field but is handy. I run Emotiva DC-1 and an older Emotiva XDA-1 balanced into my Hypex amps. Both are true differential designs and sound quite good. The Teacs are supposed to be decent. Look for a used NuPrime DAC 9 on eBay, might get for less than $500. Cambridge Audio DAC Magic plus is a good little unit, but no remote. Essence DAC good and very affordable, with older model now on sale at $100 off, so $399.

http://www.essenceelectrostatic.com/product/hdacc/

[Architect7]

Do you want a remote control? That narrows the field but is handy. I run Emotiva DC-1 and an older Emotiva XDA-1 balanced into my Hypex amps. Both are true differential designs and sound quite good. The Teacs are supposed to be decent. Look for a used NuPrime DAC 9 on eBay, might get for less than $500. Cambridge Audio DAC Magic plus is a good little unit, but no remote. Essence DAC good and very affordable, with older model now on sale at $100 off, so $399.

http://www.essenceelectrostatic.com/product/hdacc/

Thank you, that unit looks pretty cool and is now on my short list with the Topping and Emotiva. Much appreciated!

[dst]

Also, check out Mass Drop. Look at the drops under the "audiophile" tab over a week or so. Often some nice dacs are dropped at big discounts. Topping and SMLS units can sound pretty good but construction quality questionable on some of them. But for the price hard to go wrong. The Matrix DACs might be a step up, but have gotten more pricey in the last few years. Lots of them on eBay.

[Pete Schumacher ®]

I think I'm gonna pick up one of these.

http://www.essenceelectrostatic.com/...t/hdacc-ii-4k/

[dst]

Looks like a nice unit. Several decent reviews on line. HDMI is a plus for sure.