Hello forum!
I have been using a PC source with a (16 bit) HAG USB Diy dac, and I'm very happy with the results, but I want to try out some 24 bit material. I'm running an upgraded Quad 303 with some recently serviced ESL-57s, and this set up benefits from as much dynamic range in the source as you can muster, as it compresses a bit compared to modern systems.
I have previously used a Cambridge IsoMagic/Discmagic with some HDCD recordings, and you can really hear the improved dynamics. I now want to exclusively use my computer.
I have been weighing up a budget option of buying an M-Audio Audiophile 192, as it seems to have quite good dynamic range specs, which I read has been measured as 110 dBA.
The other option which attracts me is saving for the Cambridge DacMagic, which has rave reviews for its upsampling. However, it will cost me roughly 4 times as much as the Audiophile card. I use Foobar and have read that that has an upsampling plugin.
I am not worried about small differences, more thick end of the wedge bang for buck.
Also, any general comments about sound cards vs external DACs in this context welcome.
Cheers,
James
