Audio Note Zero DAC

[whippetman]

Hi, I am considering this DAC, my first foray into the world of external DACs. I  am not technically minded  and confused as to whether it is best to use the DAC with the Zero CDT or with the Zero CDP used as a transport. The CDP is  roughly 2-3 hundred £ cheaper than CDT (and you do have a stand alone source if required)  which is tempting. Can there be a significant sonic difference between the two set ups and what are the advantages/disadvantages of each.

I'm confused and unsure which is best option . Thoughts/advice welcome. 

Edited Thursday at 06:44 AM by whippetman

[xlr8or]

If you're very keen on acquiring the AN brand for a DAC, I would suggest looking at the higher end models such as the 1.1x or 2.1x Mk II series, second-hand. There are plenty of units floating around for sale in the UK. The reason being the zero 0.1x and earlier series do not allow the option of tube rolling with their permanently fixed hard-wired 6111WA tubes.

 

Regarding your main query, any CD transport or CD player acting as a transport should work with an independent DAC unit provided the right sort of terminal connections such as coaxial/spdif in/out, etc. are available on both the units. The thing to be mindful of is that you may also choose to use the DAC with other source units such as digital streamers in the future. This is why it is probably best to look at getting a really good DAC unit as the top priority as you may elect to skip listening to CDs eventually.

Edited Saturday at 12:03 AM by xlr8or

[whippetman]

Thanks for your thoughts, things have changed since this post ! Will post update re the changes.