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BoysenberryFluffy671 t1_j6n91e0 wrote

DACs can sound slightly different, but in my experience most sound the same. I have heard some that are different, but they were older, from a different company, etc. Again only slightly different. An ear pad swap on a pair of headphones would change the sound more dramatically.

I think there's just zero point to buying a DAC expecting an upgrade unless it's for what it can do technically like MQA or DSD etc. Not for how it sounds because you likely won't be able to tell.

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Shoddy_Basket_7867 t1_j6ncq5c wrote

That and interface (knobs, ins and outs and features like that). And form factor/design

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BoysenberryFluffy671 t1_j6ndkzz wrote

Yes, I was thinking about that after I posted and didn't update it. Inputs/outputs a serious reason to upgrade or just change. Also balanced vs unbalanced and I say that not from a sound quality perspective but if there's noise and such. I had to get a balanced DAC or amp to help remove some feedback/ground loop type static. I didn't try one of those $1,000 power cables though ๐Ÿ˜‚

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Realistic_Cry642 t1_j6p9a93 wrote

This.

Also, letโ€™s not forget decent drivers for my usb boys out there. Software can make or break a system in my experience

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