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Since you answered, and since you think that in blind tests people wouldn't know which is which between the $$$ and the $ processor: is it true that there is such thing as better DACs than others? And aren't the DACs the major part played in a processor?

Thanks again,



Yes DACs make an audible difference and are a key contributer to the sound quality of the device. Like all audio component parts, quality will vary. If you are buying a processor, receiver, cd or dvd player, it is worth your while to research what DAC and ADC chips are used much like when you are buying a computer. Look for names like Burr Brown, Sharc, Wolfsen, and Crystal. DACs used in receiver/processors, dvd and cd players contribute significantly to their ability to reproduce sound accurately as do the quality of their power supplies.

Good DAC design keeps noise/distortion to a minimum, preserves dynamic range, and faithfully converts the digital signal to analog without introducing unwanted artifacts or dropping data. There are well accepted performance parameters associated with DAC chips such as better signal to noise ratio, dynamic range and channel isolation or crosstalk (much like in an amp). Like all computer chip design it is not a static area and not all chips funtion the same way.

While it is true and beneficial that the price of DACs continue to drop, it does not follow that they are all equal. Its not so much whether a chip is worth a dollar or a dime, rather its how well it is spec'd and implemented into the overall design. In blind tests that I have been involved with the differences are audible among processors and players depending on where the DAC is taking place, though it becomes much more subtle with better equipment.


There is a view that a DAC with 20bit resolution and 120db SNR is at the limit of audibility so DACs with much better specs are unnecessary, but I believe those two specs don't tell the whole story.

John