Additions!
This update to my Short List of Favorite Digital gear was a no-brainer with the addition of not one but two! DACs.
Let me stress that this Short List represents my preferences in every way including features and performance.
TM’s The Short List: Favorite Digital
AudioQuest DragonFly Copper USB DAC ($250) | Review (October 2026)
Do you dongle when you DAC? AudioQuest’s newest DragonFly Copper USB DAC is the company’s best yet and an easy choice for the price and performance.
HoloAudio Red DDC & Network Streamer ($998) | Review (September 2024)
If you like the idea of digital separates—network streamer + DAC—the HoloAudio Red is a solid performer at a very nice price. In terms of features it packs a lot into its small Red form factor including support for Roon, Audirvana, Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, AirPlay, and UPnP as well as 5 digital outputs including AES and IS2. I bought one.
Wattson Emerson ANALOG Streaming DAC ($2000) | Review (November 2023)
If you prefer a one box solution that’s simple, solid, and very good sounding, Wattson’s Emerson ANALOG is the one to get. Ethernet in, analog out with support for UPnP/DLNA, AirPlay, TIDAL connect, Qobuz connect, Roon Ready, and Audirvãna.
Wattson Madison Streaming DAC ($5500) + Madison Power S ($2750) | Review (August 2026)
To my mind, the Wattson Madison Streaming DAC/Preamp is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a simple well made and superb sounding streaming DAC—Ethernet in, analog out and ready to take on UPnP/DLNA, AirPlay, TIDAL connect, Qobuz connect, Roon Ready, and Audirvãna. The Madison Power S makes Madison sound even better.
Imersiv D-1 DAC ($12,000) | Review (March 2026)
If you want to hear the best sounding stand alone DAC I’ve heard, you need to listen to the Imersiv D-1. No ifs, ands, or buts.
Grimm Audio MU1 Music Player (starts at $14,800) | Review (October 2023)
The Grimm MU1 is more than a network streamer as it adds Roon Server capabilities. There may be a better sounding network streamer out there but I haven’t heard it. I own one.
Grimm Audio MU2 Music Player (starts at $20,000) | Review (May 2024)
Grimm again. The MU2 wraps up all your digital needs, and more, into one friendly and great sounding package. Roon server, network streamer, DAC, and a very good sounding preamplifier with analog volume control and a pair of analog inputs. I dare say, when everything is taken into account, the MU2 may also be a bargain in the grand scheme of hifi things.