I'm looking to upgrade the digital source of my system. My current system is listed as follows:
Streamer: NuPrime Omnia Stream mini DAC: Soundstream DTA-1 (Yes, it's car audio device)
Integrated amplifier: ADS atelier A2
Speakers: ADS L1590/2
Nowadays, the DAC has a problem of unbalancing between left and right channels. I surfed the internet and found two interesting DACs for sale near me. They are
1) MSB DAC link
2) McIntosh MB20
The MSB is older than McIntosh. It's pure DAC though, and was launched in 1999 with a number of positive reviews. The McIntosh was recently introduced a few years ago. It's not a pure DAC but equipped with a Bluetooth receiver. IMHO, this McIntosh Bluetooth+DAC might be categorized as the lowest model of McIntosh gear. However, the price of the McIntosh is twice higher than the old MSB.
I'd like to ask for opinions, which one will you choose and why?
Streamer: NuPrime Omnia Stream mini DAC: Soundstream DTA-1 (Yes, it's car audio device)
Integrated amplifier: ADS atelier A2
Speakers: ADS L1590/2
Nowadays, the DAC has a problem of unbalancing between left and right channels. I surfed the internet and found two interesting DACs for sale near me. They are
1) MSB DAC link
2) McIntosh MB20
The MSB is older than McIntosh. It's pure DAC though, and was launched in 1999 with a number of positive reviews. The McIntosh was recently introduced a few years ago. It's not a pure DAC but equipped with a Bluetooth receiver. IMHO, this McIntosh Bluetooth+DAC might be categorized as the lowest model of McIntosh gear. However, the price of the McIntosh is twice higher than the old MSB.
I'd like to ask for opinions, which one will you choose and why?
MSB comes with different options /additional modules... it is highly tweakable. You could use an external DIY high-quality linear power supply and obtain great sound/results. The OPAmps can be rolled as well... so it will keep you occupied for a while. The inside voltage rails are stabilised by typical TO220 regulators... which can be upgraded (as well) very easily.
McIntosh is powered by a USB-C +5 V bus. Now, I do not want to get started on the downsides of using a power supply (rail) sourced from a PC/laptop... or similar (like wall-wart +5V SMPS). So, McIntosh could be an option but only if you are ready to build a high-quality linear power supply to power it up...
In a nutshell, if you get the power supply right with anything audio, life will be beautiful.
I'd personally go with MSB.
McIntosh is powered by a USB-C +5 V bus. Now, I do not want to get started on the downsides of using a power supply (rail) sourced from a PC/laptop... or similar (like wall-wart +5V SMPS). So, McIntosh could be an option but only if you are ready to build a high-quality linear power supply to power it up...
In a nutshell, if you get the power supply right with anything audio, life will be beautiful.
I'd personally go with MSB.
