I do not know exactly how many DACs and Streamers I’ve reviewed over the years, but the number is in three figure territory. And when I say reviewed, this means I’ve spent a minimum of weeks, most often months, in some cases years, with each and every one, listening and comparing.
The entire point of sharing lists like these is twofold: Of greatest importance, I am offering a shortcut view into my preferences. This kind of information is invaluable for readers because it puts all of my reviews in a more meaningful context.
The secondary reason is people love lists — like shopping lists — and I am of the opinion that the following list contains DACs that are all capable of providing deep musical satisfaction and they stand out in this regard from all of the DACs I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know.
Please note: the prices included below were current when the review was published.
Twittering Machines Favorite Digital Gear [updated August 2024]
AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt ($299.95)
Wattson Emerson ANALOG Streaming DAC ($1750) | Review
LAIV Harmony DAC ($2700) | Review
Weiss DAC204 ($2895) | Review
Auralic ARIES G1.1 Wireless Streaming Transporter (starts at $3249) | Review
Wattson Madison Streaming DAC ($3500) | Review
Linear Tube Audio Aero DAC ($3950) | Review
EMM Labs NS1 Streamer ($4500) | Review
Jay’s Audio CDT3-MK3 CD Transport ( $4998) | Review
Auralic ARIES G2.2 Wireless Streaming Transporter ($6099) | Review
Weiss DAC501 ($8995) | Review
Ideon EOS DAC ($9900) | Review
Meitner MA3 Integrated D/A Converter ($10,500) | Review
totaldac d1-unity (12500euros incl VAT in Europe, 11500euros excl VAT out of Europe (appx $12,500USD) | Review
Grimm Audio MU1 Music Player (starts at $12,500) | Review
Mola Mola Tambaqui DAC ($13,400) | Review
Grimm Audio MU2 Music Player (starts at $17,500) | Review
totaldac d1-triunity DAC (€22,000 excl VAT out of Europe, about $23,500 USD) | Review
EMM Labs DA2 V2 Reference Stereo DAC ($30,000) | Review
Twittering Machines Favorite Digital Gear (Retired)
