Looking for affordable alternatives to RME Babyface for Asynchronous DAC w/ Balanced outputs

[AgentSanchez]

So I've always held the opinion that RME converters running as an asynchronous DAC/Balanced outs will give you top-notch conversion for a reasonable price. And have received several comments to the effect that I can match that for $100 and was referred here. I remain dubious.

Any recommendations/ideas in regards to this comment? If I could get similar or better conversion w/ balanced outs - AND - get some kind of remote volume control on a budget, I'd be ecstatic!

For reference - current setup is the RME as a DAC, feeding a Hafler Transnova P4000, driving a pair of B&W DM604 S3.

 

[gvl]

Balanced outputs with remote controlled volume for $100 isn't going to happen, but if you're willing to up the game to $300-400 there are good options out there.

 

[Blumlein 88]

I don't know you can get what you want for $100. Look at reviews done here of SMSL, and Topping for something.

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/.../smsl-m400-balanced-usb-mqa-dac-review.13732/

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-d70s-mqa-review-dac.18728/

 

[Matias]

Topping D30Pro (400 usd): balanced outputs, remote control, excellent measurements.
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-d30pro-review-balanced-dac.20259/

 

[AgentSanchez]

Balanced outputs with remote controlled volume for $100 isn't going to happen, but if you're willing to up the game to $300-400 there are good options out there.

Hmm - what would you advise in the $300-400 range? I can't see spending the cost of the RME to replace it and only get a volume control in the deal but $300-400.... maybe.

 

[bennetng]

Motu M2
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/motu-m2-review-audio-interface.19911/

 

[gvl]

Hmm - what would you advise in the $300-400 range? I can't see spending the cost of the RME to replace it and only get a volume control in the deal but $300-400.... maybe.

Topping D30 Pro I think is the best performer for the money. I understand early adopters faced some issues, check the discussion about it here if it matters to you. SMSL M300 mkii seems decent too, and yet cheaper.