Summary:
The classe dac 1 is a stunning performer ,it's resolution is only bettered by dacs that cost$8000.00 to$10,000 the power and impact will drop your jaw .I can highly recommend this dac . you can find them really cheap these days for about$1400.00 to $1800.00 a steal

Strengths:
dynamics,resolution and impact

Weaknesses:
none

Similar Products Used:
mark levinson,spectral

Summary:
Ironically the Classe DDT-1 and Dac-1 have had the longest run in our system -over three years. How many people can claim that about their cd player? Partnered with the Illuminati D-60 digital link, MIT Z Cord IIs and a Townshend audio sink under the transport, this combo sings -and swings- with the best of them. Now available at silly-ridiculous prices, this is the one to beat for value as well as for fidelity.

Strengths:
Fast, detailed & involving presentation.

Weaknesses:
None.

Summary:
I had this unit for one year. It went to Ultra Analog for service at least 3 times. The two internal boards were changed out twice, and even then the relays would just "cut out" for no apparent reason. This is not to say it sounded horrible. When it worked it was very good-to excellent sounding, but I had to sell it for fear it would crap out again. I accumulated over 100 dollars in phone bills talking with Robert from Classe just trying to coordinate the service on the unit. They would not change it out with a new DAC. I was very unhappy. I will not knock the sound when it worked, but the over all hassle involved with the unit reliability and service eclipsed any thoughts of keeping the unit on a long term basis. I was literally suffering conniptions everytime I turned the unit on for fear of its failure. The attitude at Classe Audio convinced me to sell my perfect, much beloved CA300 amplifier for fear that it too would fail. If you are looking at Classe digital gear, I would definitely look at something else.

Strengths:
It sounded just fine

Weaknesses:
Horrible reliability and service

Summary:
Don't hesitate to spend on quality products. But, first you have to listen and let your ears be the judge. After all, they do not come cheap!!!

Strengths:
very detailed, accurate, warm...perfect.

Weaknesses:
so far none yet

Similar Products Used:






I use the Classe CDT-1 transport. I also own Timbre TT-1 DAC w/c I interchange with the DAC1, I love this 2 DA's. I've owned Esoteric DA by TEAC, I sold my CAL-Delta, PS audio DA & Audio Alchemy DDSIII. They were all respectable machines.