daveed_tx

I'd all but decided to do the Wadia (as DAC) and the Burson (Soloist, as HA/preamp), until the Soloist sold from under me. So I was left to choose between the 160D vs Wadia. I'm going to go with the Wadia since I can get a great deal on it. The Burson is on closeout, because is being discontinued, and a great deal, too. My gut is that I'll prefer the Burson sound over Wadia, but I've spoken with other people who like Maggies and my musical tastes and they prefer the Wadia, too, so I guess I'll be okay. I'm a bit nervous about buying a big "corporate" company especially when the Burson is SO well built... by hand. It's what I used to love most about my old Rogue Perseus tube preamp. I'm also nervous about the ability of the Wadia to power the HiFiMan 400, as I've heard it struggles on the 6, but the 400 and 500 are far less sensitive, so it shouldn't be a problem. For now, I'm looking at the Wadia as a better DAC that saves me having to spend an extra $200-500 on a S/PDIF. When I can upgrade to the Burson Conductor, I'm sure I will. Keep you posted on my journey. Thanks for your input!

Thanks for the reply. I used to have a Maggie/REL setup. Loved it! Have you been happy with the DAC? I don't imagine I'll listen to much 24/192, but I'd like the option.

That's interesting. Most of the reviews I read preferred Burson stuff over the W4S Dac-2, but the MPre looks pretty nice for $1099. Yes, I can get the Wadia for under $900 so I'm leaning that way. I like the idea of the Burson DAC + Soloist (probably one of the nicest HA/Preamps out there for the price), I just wish the DAC were able to do 24/192 over USB. I don't want to pay $$ for a USB-to-SPDIF. I'd rather invest that money in a better setup. I do plan to run HiFiMan 400 or 500. I worry about the 500 on Wadia, but have read that some people tried it with no problems.

Thanks. It's a really tough call. The Burson 160D is cheapest cost to me. The Wadia next (and apparently sounds great). The Burson DAC + Soloist is most $$ but highest quality overall (I'm guessing). Best, Dave

Hi all, I haven't heard any of these yet, but I have a nice opportunity at some used gear. I will primarily listen to these in my bedroom with headphones (TBD, probably HiFiMan 500). Source may be iPod Dock or Laptop > USB out. Tastes are smooth jazz to classic rock to adult contemporary to electronica to nu-jazz/funk/soul to vocal jazz/singer-songwriter. My old living room system was a CD > tube pre > SS power > Magnepan + REL sub. I like the British PRAT feel and very "musical" vs analytical presentations. I'm partial to Burson because of the sound & build quality and not China factor. My concern with the 160D is the DAC being a little outdated. If I want 24/192 I need to get another piece of gear to take USB to SPDIF (unless I go w an iPod Dock that already has SPDIF). Not sure I'll be listening to many recordings of this hi-res anyway. Best sound would probably be the Burson DA-160 + Soloist for sound. Also highest cost. If it wasn't on sale, I'd also look at the Conductor for same cost. The Wadia is crazy versatile and gets great reviews all around. I wouldn't need USB-to-SPDIF. I could go balanced out to power amp (someday). A little concerned with the big market factor. Lots of good reviews out there, though. I've asked around other places (dealers, mainly) and the consensus is split 50/50 between Burson & Wadia. Thoughts from you guys are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, Dave