its differential, balanced output. However, without a differential preamp and power amp down the chain that feature is less of an advantage. I'd say based on all I have read, and from listening to the XDA-1, is that, beyond the differential output, it is an average implementation for a $300 DAC. In addition, I wouldn't buy one for its USB capabilities which are sub-par in the marketplace. All that said, in a complete differential system it would be a competent performer, if not a bit outclassed by its surrounding components, and for $250 is as good as anything around $300 if USB is not to be used.

Hi Jackfish, 

I'm getting back into audiophilic equipment.  Can you recommend a turntable or three in the $600- $1400 range?

Cynthia Daire

For $600 I like the Music Hall MMF-2.2 in piano black for $450 and a Pro-Ject Acryl-It platter upgrade for $129. A good, solid cartridge and adjustable VTA make it the best entry level choice.

I purchased my Pro-Ject Xpression III when they were on sale for $599 and replaced the underwhelming Sumiko Oyster with a $150 Audio Technica AT440MLa. A Pro-Ject Xpression III with a Ortofon 2M Red, Nagaoka MP-110, or even an Audio Technica 120E for $800 would be pretty nice at that price point.

The Music Hall MMF-5.1 at $875 should be a good step up from the above $800 suggestion. Although I have not heard the new Magic 3 cartridge, I see the Magic 3 is being sold separately for $350, so it could be a really good match with this table. I think it also now has a Pro-Ject 9cc tonearm which is very good at this price point. All in all, this looks like a very good value considering separately the cartridge sells for $350 and the tonearm for $770.

For $1,000 I like the Sota Moonbeam II with a Nagaoka MP-150 or Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge.

For $1,500 I like the Clearaudio Concept Turntable with the Verify Tonearm and the Concept MM cartridge. Get a 34.5" square silk bandana  for $20-25 for a dust cover.

for the price. But so are the Cambridge Audio 550C, NAD C545BEE, Music Hall CD15.2, and Marantz CD6004. It depends on one's ears which one is right. I am thoroughly satisfied with my ERC-1.