External DAC for Expert PRO

[Redwingnine]

Does anyone use an external DAC with the Expert PRO amplifier?
If so, then what DAC model? Does using it improve sound quality?

Funny, about six months ago I decided to make the move to the external DAC as I was building a second system of sorts with a more traditional power amp. 

I bought a Chord Mojo and a decent 3.5 to RCA.  Crude, but suddenly I noticed that my 140 just became more...musical.  A few months later, I took the plunge and picked up an MScaler (upscaler/digital filter/mystery device) and a TT2.  MScaler can start arguments.  

I have had the combination in different configurations, and enjoy using the TT2 as a preamp, and even with a pair of Focal Studio monitors.  But on and off, and then for the past week, I've simply been running the MScaler via optical to the 140.  The difference is stark.  I could run the MScaler to the TT2 and then line-level analog into the Devialet, but regardless of what level of upscaling is chosen (the TT2 can do redbook 16x I believe), optical is limited to 24/192 and I have found that I very much enjoy this setup.  Timing is (almost) everything, and I just find that I am more satisfied than I have been with my system since the start.


I also own a Chord M-Scaler/Hugo-TT2 setup.  I use it primarily for headphone use, along with occasional use with tube amps.  Been using the M-Scaler connected to a D-250 Pro, and it definitely helps.