Hello all... First post here, but I am in the exact same boat, with a literal overload of options when it comes to DAC choices, philosophies, etc...and I ordered one from the Auralic site which arrived Monday. I also ordered the Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 digital, which I got yesterday. I am looking forward to the comparison. I also have a dragonfly red sitting around I will throw into the mix.
My older Krell Showcase preamp has analog Passthrough available for all analog inputs, so I will hook each of them up and see what I can hear.
I'm also interested in whether I will be able to tell the difference between sending the analog signal straight through the analog Passthrough to the amp, (Krell Kav250), and using the preamp processor (easiest way to add that .1 channel) which obviously involves another ADA conversion. I listen through KEF LS50's, and I use a velodyne DD12 sub. The preamp has balanced inputs, which pairs nicely with the Vega.
So far, I am really enjoying the Vega. I do a lot of Tidal streaming, so I'm also interested in comparing how they each handle mqa files... The pre box with the built in decoding vs the Vega without.
Looking forward to what you think of yours when you get it. I have to say, it is a nice little box on first, second and third impression.
I'll probably have my son hook them up to inputs I don't know ahead of time, then listen to them each a while and see if I start turning to one input vs the other.
Either way, the reality is, I just love listening to music. I'm looking forward to some hard auditioning!
Cheers
For around is not quite the same as my exact quote from the website. Anyways you make good points on audible advantages from other DAC's. I think that is what we are all searching for. My interest in the Vega at this point is part on the good reviews I have seen over the years from the conception of this new company and now today I see about a $2k price drop on the Vega which puts it in a more palatable price tag for those who originally wanted it but thought the price was much too high. I did order one yesterday to check out to see if there is that audible difference. I am currently using the Auralic mini with upgraded linear power. Entry point I know but it did move my 13 year old rack system to present day streaming capability. I will let you know of my audible findings. Otherwise it goes right back.