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  1. #1
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    Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp



    The 812 has a sophisticated built-in headphone amp with multiple connection options that would connect almost any headphone on the market. It has the DAC topology, DSP filter, and streaming options similar to the 866. It has two analog inputs and preamp outs for more traditional two-channel systems. It also features a software-enabled fixed DAC out for those who want to use it just as a DAC. All of this makes the 812 versatile for virtually any listener or system.


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    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  2. #2
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    The styling is similar to the new 866 integrated. At first I wasn’t so sure I liked the new look but it’s growing on me.
    Gary
    Main: Lumin A1, Accuphase E-650, Tannoy Canterbury GR, Shunyata, Audience
    Secondary: Lumin M1, Linton Heritage, Shunyata, Audience

  3. #3
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Will we see a stand-alone 800 series amp soon?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  4. #4
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    It’s a Boulder so it should be good. Altho, the layout on front plate looks odd.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
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  5. #5
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post


    The 812 has a sophisticated built-in headphone amp with multiple connection options that would connect almost any headphone on the market. It has the DAC topology, DSP filter, and streaming options similar to the 866. It has two analog inputs and preamp outs for more traditional two-channel systems. It also features a software-enabled fixed DAC out for those who want to use it just as a DAC. All of this makes the 812 versatile for virtually any listener or system.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    I will have to check this Boulder unit and the T+A HA 200 before I buy a second Benchmark HPA4.

  6. #6
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Sadly this product has been removed from the website. I’m wondering if they are rethinking the lower end of their offerings. I had hope for the 812 being the centerpiece for a smaller system.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  7. #7
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Bones13 View Post
    Sadly this product has been removed from the website. I’m wondering if they are rethinking the lower end of their offerings. I had hope for the 812 being the centerpiece for a smaller system.
    Not at all. They removed it because they continue to wait on Roon for certification. The product has been ready for months. Ready to go. Ready to ship. Just waiting on Roon.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  8. #8
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    This is disappointing, and absurd. Roon gets to add a premier equipment manufacture to their stable, and they reward them with months of lost sales. I believe this is why Aqua ultimately did a work around...
    Buckeye Farmboy translocated to Boulder. Master and slave to my 10 year old twins
    System: Grimm MU1, Mola Mola Tambaqui, Accuphase C3900 pre, TARA Labs 0.8 XLR, Gryphon Essence Stereo Amp, Tara LAbs 0.8 Speaker Cables, Rockport Atria ii's

  9. #9
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Roon has both the 866 and the 812 listed as Roon Ready on their web site.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  10. #10
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Two new videos from Mike at Suncoast - worth watching.

    1) 812 unboxing
    2) 812 + 1161 playing music

    Definitely a pair to consider. Thanks for the videos!
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  11. #11
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    I would be interested in any comments from 812 owners, had a brief listen to one yesterday and was impressed.

  12. #12
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    I have one of these on the way, mainly for headphones but was thinking about getting some active speakers. Are there any decent ones with XLR inputs, no DAC, bookshelf size? A quick search did not disclose any that would be at the level of the 812.

  13. #13
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by FastEddy View Post
    I have one of these on the way, mainly for headphones but was thinking about getting some active speakers. Are there any decent ones with XLR inputs, no DAC, bookshelf size? A quick search did not disclose any that would be at the level of the 812.
    Couple of options that quickly come to mind are the ATC Professional active speakers (e.g. SCM20ASL Pro) and Genelec active 2-way monitors. Not sure if you'd consider them "at the level of the 812", but both brands are very highly regarded in the pro audio space.
    Neko Audio
    Authorized Dealer: AC Infinity, APC, Audeze, Bryston, Devialet, Elite HTS, Fortress Seating, JMF Audio, JVC, Kaleidescape, LG, LUMIN, Magico, Ortofon, RME, Samsung, Soulution, STAX, Trinnov, Vivid Audio, Weiss & more.

  14. #14
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Are many of these out in the wilds yet? Still not reviewing going on.

    Still my top contender for the heart of my end game (down sized…) system.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  15. #15
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Was also thinking the same thing in terms of the heart of a simple high quality system. However, I recently purchased a Mola Mola Tambaqui DAC, although it has less of a preamp function in terms of no analog inputs, it does have headphone out and is a Roon Endpoint like the Boulder. Although I have it with other components, it would equally be another similar contender for a simple high quality system.
    Main System: Linn LP12/Ittok/DVxx2Mk2, ME25 as phono pre, Oppo BDP-95, Sangean WFT-3D, Auralic Aries G2.1, Mola Mola Tambaqui, Pass Labs XP22, Pass Labs X260.8, Magnepan MG3.7i
    Headphone System: Auralic Aries Mini, iFi Hip DAC2, DCA Aeon2 Noire

  16. #16
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    There are some great DAC/headphone amps out now. dcs Bartok, etc. I need/want an analog input for the turntable.

    My other considerations being Lumin P1, and Bryson BR-20, both of which add HDMI to the mix. Lumin P1 has no headphone amp, but I have a couple of those if I end up going that way.

    I could even end up with the 1161 added to the system one day. (There is a software company I invest/consult with…)

    If I end up so downsized that amp/speaker are not practical, the 812 would seem wonderful.

    Many other complicated, multi box, alternatives.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  17. #17
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    We have one on demo.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  18. #18
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    I do hope to get down there. Sadly, I can’t make the Expo again this year. That would have been great.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  19. #19
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Anyone know if the preamp is analog only. (ie. is the pre amp input digitized on the way through to the outputs?, and is the volume control analog or digital?)
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  20. #20
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Bones13 View Post
    Anyone know if the preamp is analog only. (ie. is the pre amp input digitized on the way through to the outputs?, and is the volume control analog or digital?)
    Quick answers from the great staff at Boulder:

    1) Analog input goes all through the system as analog
    2) Volume control is analog (not digital)
    3) Limited comments on the DAC, as it's custom and proprietary (my words)

    Just the answers I wanted
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  21. #21
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Bones13 View Post
    Quick answers from the great staff at Boulder:

    1) Analog input goes all through the system as analog
    2) Volume control is analog (not digital)
    3) Limited comments on the DAC, as it's custom and proprietary (my words)

    Just the answers I wanted
    We have one in the store.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  22. #22
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Yep, I am trying to get through a busy spring, and then I need to come down and listen to the 812, and the Esoteric N-05XD. And bring some headphones, the headphone amps will be important.
    Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
    Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
    Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
    Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
    Headphone : BHSE + Voce

  23. #23

    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Mike, do you know if the 812 can stream from Roon without an Ethernet cable connection. I don’t want to have to sit near an Ethernet port to be able to stream so this is crucial. The manual says there is a Wi-Fi dongle but not sure if it a full replacement for the Ethernet and whether the SQ suffers as a result?

  24. #24
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Howiebrou View Post
    Mike, do you know if the 812 can stream from Roon without an Ethernet cable connection. I don’t want to have to sit near an Ethernet port to be able to stream so this is crucial. The manual says there is a Wi-Fi dongle but not sure if it a full replacement for the Ethernet and whether the SQ suffers as a result?
    No, you need an Ethernet cable. No wifi. Wifi is not ideal for best sound. The wifi dongle is for the remote.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  25. #25
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    Re: Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Howiebrou View Post
    ...I don’t want to have to sit near an Ethernet port to be able to stream so this is crucial...
    A Pakedge W6 access point configured in bridge mode fixes that problem. You'll find them on eBay for $10.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
    Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
    | Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali

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Boulder 812 DAC/Preamp

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