I just got a new pre-amp/amp but still have an older (6 years) cd changer
(Yamaha). I'd would like to replace my CD changer with a CD/DVD changer
and possibly an dedicated DAC. I have a computer I'd like to get the
cleanest sound from as well and a dedicated DAC seems like the logical
choice.

I have done a bit of searching so far and haven't found much. Can you
someone give me some advice and point my in the right direction?

Thanks

slaterson wrote in message news:jRfwb.220414$ao4.791913@attbi_s51...

Q: I'd would like to replace my CD changer with a CD/DVD changer
and possibly an dedicated DAC. I have a computer I'd like to get the
cleanest sound from as well and a dedicated DAC seems like the logical
choice.

A: The basic approach would be:

1. DVD multichangers generally sound better as CD transports than CD
changers.
And you can use them for DVD or even SACD playack as well.

Look for one within your budget with COAX (SPDIF) digital out. Also
look for models that can be daisychained . With prices dropping, you
might decide you need another one very soon.

2. The notion of "bits are bits, zeros and ones" is not taking into
consideration that music requires precise timing. "Zeros and ones" out
of timing are called jitter. If you are using CD/DVD changer as
transport and an outboard DAC, you will need dejitter device that
hooks between changer and DAC.
Good ones cost new 250-400 and usually sell for less used. GWLabs
makes a model called DSP that not only de-jitter incoming signal but
upsample it to 94KHz/24bit. It will breathe new life into existing
CDs.

3. Advice on DAC is very much like advising someone what car to buy.
Vintage Mercedes cabrio, new Honda Civic or off-lease Camry for the
same amount of money?

To use computer analogy, DVD transports and preamplifiers are like
peripherals and DAC is like PC. You may use preamp for years and even
then it will have some resale value. Although fully functioning, DAC
will be obsolete by then, just like 5 year old PC.When purchasing DAC,
it is important to have this in mind. Buy one today that you will be
using for let's say three years and then be comfortable to discard and
buy new one. ($1000 DAC of today will be worth perhaps $100)

I would recommend buying current model DAC on a used market, somebody
else has absorbed the initial cost, you get fully functioning device
for 50% of the price. if you find a better deal later, you can resell
it with no or minimal loss.

4. Keep in mind that you will need decent Digital interconnect and a
pair of decent analog interconnects to experience the full potential
of your digital front end.

Good luck !