LessLoss Audio DAC 2004 MKII Hybrid AC/ battery powered. Lots of positive reviews! $5,500

The DAC 2004 MKII is a DAC that tackles issue like jitter in an interesting manner. Like many other top end DACs, it runs a pair of multi-bit DACs that will upsample up to 192KHz and features an ultra-low jitter superclock. Where it differs somewhat is its hybrid power supply. The digital portion of the DAC is still powered by conventional AC but the output boards are via two rechargeable battery packs. This helps ensures a much darker background and quieter noise floor which then elevated the level of details you can get from its precisely staged soundstage. A suitably high level CD transport is highly recommended to exploit the prowess of the LessLoss DAC.

Built quality is on par with other reference level DACs with a solid feel throughout. Each DAC 2004 MKII is painstakingly handbuilt to perfection. Cosmetically, this unit looks really good. Very minor corner ding on the right rear corner and minor scuff marks common with use are the only other imperfection. We don't have the original box but will securely pack it for safe shipping.