Looking for DAC under ₹10k for Laptop → Marantz PM5005 → Wharfedale 12.1

[kvandhi]

Hi everyone,
I’m looking for a budget DAC (under ₹10,000) for my setup:

Laptop (FLAC / Foobar) → NuForce uDAC-2 → Marantz PM5005 → Wharfedale Diamond 12.1

My old uDAC-2 is from 2012 and now has issues (LED dead, volume knob crackling), so planning to replace it.

What I need​

• USB input
• RCA line-out (must)
• At least 2.0V line output to feed the Marantz properly
• No Bluetooth needed

Please suggest brand and model .

Thanks,

 

[keroo1099]

You can look at the SMSL SU1 which is under 8k. Has some good reviews

 

[kvandhi]

While selecting DAC, should I check for sound signature match with amplifier. For instance marantz is warm sound, so the dac also warm or bright. I am not sure about sound signature match for DAC

 

[rwnano]

Topping d10s DAC too

 

[Amarendra]

While selecting DAC, should I check for sound signature match with amplifier. For instance marantz is warm sound, so the dac also warm or bright. I am not sure about sound signature match for DAC

If you can stretch a bit go for the Fiio k11 R2R DAC- quite neutral and safe bet. It has excellent reviews as well.

 

[pawan_pullarwar]

I have Fiio K11 R2R as well as SMSL SU 1 (Only 7500) , SMSL SU 1 is connected to TV. Fiio K11 R2R I use to listen music using Fiio SR11 streamer.

SMSL SU1 is amazing clean and warm. Fiio K11 R2R has more depth to the bass and better roll-off.