Audio Research Reference DAC

[NoahG]

"Audio Research Reference DAC ($16,000). Without a doubt, this is the most technically advanced DAC on the market; yet, paradoxically, it employs a tubed output stage. That module is virtually the same as is found in the formidable Reference 5 linestage. Combined with its variable output, the Reference DAC holds the promise of also serving as a reference-caliber linestage. On the digital side, in addition to all the usual folderol, the Reference sports a digital iPod input and a thumb-drive slot right on the front panel.

But the big difference between the Reference and most DACs is its networkability. The ARC can be connected to networked music servers via either wired or wireless connectivity. That means you don’t have to bring your laptop to the DAC in order to play music files. This technique has been tried by Linn, among others, with dubious sonic results, but hopefully Audio Research has cracked the code. As if all this wasn’t enough, the Reference also boasts an Internet tuner, switchable filters, support for the DSD-over-PCM standard, and kernel-streaming. I predict this DAC will force many another maker to re-evaluate its feature set." -Alan Taffel, TAS

[Portugal]

It's an interesting product that fits on the dominant trend of blending DACs and preamps.

I'll let it mature but clearly see me trading my dac + preamp separates for a higher level one box integrated solution.

This one seems a good contender.

[redm]

Originally Posted by Portugal

It's an interesting product that fits on the dominant trend of blending DACs and preamps.

I'll let it mature but clearly see me trading my dac + preamp separates for a higher level one box integrated solution.

This one seems a good contender.

Dads and preamps have been blended dice digital outputs were introduced.. Seems like its making its way to the heist end products finally.

Sent from my iPad Mini

[Patrick Nash]

I heard one recently and it sounded very good indeed. After much was made about it combining a Ref 5 with a reference DAC I asked if it had an analogue input as well as all the digital connectivity and the answer was no.
So you still need a preamp if you've got a vinyl rig, which is a bit of a shame.

[uwbadger]

Originally Posted by Patrick Nash

I heard one recently and it sounded very good indeed. After much was made about it combining a Ref 5 with a reference DAC I asked if it had an analogue input as well as all the digital connectivity and the answer was no.
So you still need a preamp if you've got a vinyl rig, which is a bit of a shame.

Agee 100%

Why no analog input???

[Ritmo]

It is an interesting product. Waiting to see some reviews.

[SundayNiagara]

Over its 40 plus year history, ARC hasn't made many mistakes, but this may be one of them. There just doesn't seem to be much of a buzz!

[metaphacts]

Originally Posted by SundayNiagara

Over its 40 plus year history, ARC hasn't made many mistakes, but this may be one of them. There just doesn't seem to be much of a buzz!

Mark if you had come by to see DC and I at your local ARC dealer a few weeks ago you might think differently.

[SundayNiagara]

Originally Posted by metaphacts

Mark if you had come by to see DC and I at your local ARC dealer a few weeks ago you might think differently.

Car troubles kept me from being there.

[metaphacts]

Originally Posted by SundayNiagara

Car troubles kept me from being there.

We missed you.