It all started innocently enough. After years of enjoying music on fairly standard equipment, I caught the hi-fi bug, that little voice whispering, “You could get even better sound, you know.” As anyone dipping their toes into this hobby knows, the rabbit hole is deep, lined with shiny bits of gear promising transcendence and wallet-fear. But unlike some who might splurge on high-end kit straightaway, I’ve taken a more, let’s say, “measured” approach.
Let me tell you about my current DAC lineup. I’ve got five, which feels almost… reasonable? Each has been a calculated purchase, and none of them required me to take out a second mortgage. There’s the trusty iFi Zen DAC v2 and the AudioQuest Dragonfly Red, both around the €200 mark. Solid, dependable. The iFi UNO came in at €79, a total steal, and surprisingly capable. Then there’s the HiFiBerry DAC2 HD, a DIY delight for self builder Pi audio fans. Finally, the Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Adapter, because sometimes, simplicity (and practicality) wins.
Each one does the job: they make my music sound better, or at least different, than straight from the laptop or phone. And really, I’ve been happy with them. It’s like drinking a €20 bottle of wine. You’re satisfied; it’s enjoyable. But every now and then, a voice pops up: What about a €400 bottle?
Enter the Chord Mojo 2 and the iFi xDSD Gryphon. I tested both recently at a hi-fi store, that notorious danger zone. I sat down, plugged in, and… wow. The sound was richer, more layered, a bit like stepping into a music world with a little more texture and colour. That €20 wine had been swapped for a €400 masterpiece, and I could taste the difference. Every note had nuance, like discovering hidden corners of songs I thought I knew. The Mojo 2 was all about detail and transparency, the Gryphon added a warm touch with Bluetooth convenience.
But, here’s the rub: these DACs come with price tags I couldn’t quite swallow (yet). Spending €600 on a DAC is a different league altogether, especially when I’m still very much “testing the waters” in this hobby. Sure, the difference was undeniable, like jumping from an economy seat to business class. But my current setup is already a joy, much like that €20 wine I’m perfectly happy with.
Still, curiosity is a powerful thing. And there’s FOMO, that little devil on the shoulder, whispering that maybe the next step up would transform my listening experience forever. I have no illusions, though. That Chord Hugo 2 at €1,800 or the Astell&Kern SP3000 at nearly €4,000? Now we’re talking ultra-premium territory, basically the audio equivalent of a bottle of Château Margaux. I mean, even I know my limits. Well, at least, I think I do.
For now, I’m sticking with my modest, diverse DAC collection. I know myself too well, though. The day will come when I take the plunge and add one of these wow-factor DACs to the stable. It’s inevitable. Until then, I’ll sip my €20 wine (with a hint of longing for that €400 bottle) and enjoy the music.