The Best DAC Under $2000

What to consider when buying:

- Compatibility with your audio source and other equipment
- Audio quality and resolution
- Connectivity options (USB, optical, coaxial, etc.)
- DAC chip technology and processing capabilities
- Build quality and durability

Winner: Chord Qutest

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings: 4.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon (25 ratings), 5 out of 5 stars on BH Photo (3 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $1,895

Important specs:‍

- 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 resolution
- Custom FPGA digital filter
- Galvanically isolated USB, optical, and coaxial inputs
- Precision-machined aluminum casing
- Designed and manufactured in the UK‍

Why it's recommended: The Chord Qutest is regarded as one of the best DACs on the market, delivering exceptional sound quality and versatility. Its FPGA-based technology and proprietary filtering system produce incredible detail and dynamics with minimal distortion, making it perfect for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who demand the highest level of performance from their audio equipment.

Runner-up: Schiit Yggdrasil

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon (13 ratings), 4.9 out of 5 stars on Schiit Audio (50 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $2,599

Important specs:

- 21-bit, 1.53MHz digital filter
- Two AK4490 DAC chips per channel
- Fully balanced topology with discrete JFET buffers
- Upgradable USB, optical, and coaxial inputs
- Made in the USA with high-quality components

‍Why it's recommended: The Schiit Yggdrasil is a high-end DAC that offers exceptional accuracy and resolution, as well as a wide range of input options and upgrade paths. Its discrete JFET output stage provides a smooth, natural sound with excellent detail, while its balanced topology and sophisticated digital filtering keep distortion and noise to a minimum. This DAC is perfect for audiophiles who demand uncompromising performance and flexibility.

Also great: iFi Audio Pro iDSD

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon (47 ratings), 4.8 out of 5 stars on BH Photo (6 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $1,999

Important specs:

- Dual-core Burr-Brown DAC chips with 4-channel interleaving
- MQA decoding, DSD512, and PCM768kHz capability
- Multiple filtering options and adjustable output modes
- Advanced jitter reduction and power supply technologies
- Compact, portable design with rechargeable battery‍

Why it's recommended: The iFi Audio Pro iDSD is a versatile, feature-packed DAC that delivers excellent sound quality and performance. Its Burr-Brown DACs and advanced processing algorithms provide incredible clarity and detail, while its flexible input and output options allow it to work with a variety of audio sources and equipment. Its compact size and portable design make it perfect for audiophiles who want high-fidelity sound on the go.