I’ve got the itch to start budgeting towards a higher-end DAC. I currently have a Grace SDAC, outputting to a Loki then split to either a Dark Voice or JDS Labs Atom amp. Several headphones but the top 3 I listen to the most are Klipsch HP-3, 6XX, and 177X GO.
I’m wondering what the next best option is in terms of noticeable upgrade? I very much prefer a warm sound signature and anything that can combat harsh/sibilant/overdone treble.
I hear a lot of great things here about the Bifrost 2, especially in terms of instrument separation, and the $700 it costs is about what I would be comfortable spending for a substantial upgrade. I would be interested in any other solid DACs up to that point as well - I’ve heard good things about the SU-8 but I don’t think it’s particularly warm nor would it be worth the upgrade.
I also may have my sights set on the AudioQuest Dragonfly-Cobalt with how well the HP-3 pairs with it, but I would prefer a unit with RCA outputs to the Loki.
Save for the Bifrost 2. You won’t regret it. It’s smooth, warm, wide sound stage, big on dynamics, and with good bass slam. You’ll hear a large difference from the SDAC.
I personally went from SDAC to BF1 to BF2 to… too embarrassed to say.
Can only tell you from my experience… I have the Bifrost 2 and run the Asgard 3 out from rca’s and liquid platinum balanced out from the BF2. I have many different sets of headphones, Aeon 2s, Hifiman Hex v2, Drop Focal elex, OG nighthawks etc… I like a slightly warmer sound and the Bifrost 2 and the two amps are just gold to me… I also have the Loki but not connected to this setup as I do not feel it is needed on here. The Bf2 is not and was not cheap but more than worth it to me…Anytime my headphones move on my head because of the punch delivered from my music without eq at all is a good thing when I want it…
Well that was fast! Haha, appreciate your input(s). I think I will start working towards the BF2 as the upgrade here. @Jetman the fact that you don’t even use a Loki with it anymore is huge.
That is what I said… haha… This system just frickin rocks!!! plain and simple. I also run Kali audio LP6 monitors nearfield rca out from the Asgard3… They are just yummy with this setup…
I’m saving for either the MHDT Orchid or Holo Audio Spring Dac. I have the Bifrost 1 multibit and I’m sure the BF2 is a fine upgrade I just feel like I can do much “better” and just have to spend/save accordingly. Good luck!