pioneer 9700 dac vs teac d-500 dac

[Wheelieman]

Hi Friends,

Recently started using my pioneer 9700 as a transport with the teac d-500 dac; everything else in the system is the same. There is a big difference in sound when going through the teac dac; vocals in particular are fuller and more fluid, and the whole seems to have more depth and space to it.

I thought the pioneer had quite a good onboard dac, I would like to understand more on the technical side as to why there is such a big difference? I am wondering if the pioneer needs some replacement parts. I freely admit I am a novice in these matters, but if anyone could explain this to me it would be a great help.

As always many thanks to this great forum.

John W