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  1. #1
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    Done with digital

    I am done with digital. After having suffered thru every digital format available over the years, and never liking the sound of any of it, I am putting all my time, money and effort into my analog front-ends (turntable and tapedeck).

    How many of you have a similar story to tell?

  2. #2
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    Done with digital

    As a diehard analog guy (vinyl and tape), I would love to know what you tried as far as DAC’s, streamers, etc.

    The reason I ask is that although digital can be the equivalent of the excellent local buffet compared to the 3 star Michelin restaurant that is analog, I still really enjoy it, but boy, does it take work to get right.

    Bad digital is the Golden Corral of audio.


    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/

  3. #3
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    Re: Done with digital

    I have heard nearly every brand available at one time or another. Accuphase, CH Precision and Zanden are probably my top pics in their price classes.

  4. #4
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    Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    I have heard nearly every brand available at one time or another. Accuphase, CH Precision and Zanden are probably my top pics in their price classes.
    Respectfully, I wouldn’t consider any of those as top digital candidates.

    I consider the following as excellent examples:

    MSB
    Esoteric (the latest Master Discrete)
    Aqua
    Berkeley
    Lampizator
    Etc…etc….etc.


    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/

  5. #5
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    Re: Done with digital

    Well Mike, we can agree or disagree concerning which brands and models we like the best. My biggest complaint with digital besides fatigue factor is that it doesn't sound as real and palpable as even a well recorded cassette.

  6. #6
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    Re: Done with digital

    Welcome to the forum SoundMann!
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  7. #7
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    Re: Done with digital

    had both and skipped analog. i am not really missing it apart from a few old recordings.
    then again, respect for thouse who are willing to do the hard work to get the best results.

  8. #8

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    Well Mike, we can agree or disagree concerning which brands and models we like the best. My biggest complaint with digital besides fatigue factor is that it doesn't sound as real and palpable as even a well recorded cassette.
    Welcome aboard!

    Could you please share your system?
    Devialet Expert 440 Pro | Dynaudio Confidence 50 | 2x SVS SB16-Ultra
    Anthem MRX 720 | Dynaudio Excite X28 | Dynaudio Emit M20
    LG OLED 77 CX | LG OLED 65 C7

  9. #9

    Re: Done with digital

    Music is literally time. For me it's a media matter -- I'd rather spend my time exploring new and fresh music rather than the same old same old, no matter how superior sounding the latter might be. Digital streaming is what makes this path possible.

  10. #10
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    Re: Done with digital

    I like and enjoy both. The beauty of choice; it’s terrific to have options.

    PS - Welcome to AS Soundmann!
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  11. #11
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    I like and enjoy both. The beauty of choice; it’s terrific to have options.

    PS - Welcome to AS Soundmann!
    Well said.
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  12. #12
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    Re: Done with digital

    absolutely love my digital + streaming source ...without previewing titles, i wouldn't know which LPs to buy!


    welcome!!
    viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | air tight atc-5 + atm-300r | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + kanjiroba diy transport + roon rock
    alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii

  13. #13
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    Re: Done with digital

    I have drifted the other way. I listen to digital most of the time. It is more convenient and the sound is very acceptable.
    Main System: Analog - Linn LP12, Origin Live DC motor and Controller, SME V arm, Benz Ruby H 2 cartridge, Wright Sound preamp. Digital - Intel NUC I-7, 16 gig ram, Jriver media center 24, Wyrd4 Sound 2V2 SE Dac, Fathom Hard Drives.
    H-Cat Version 9 preamp, ARC Reference 75 amp, Custom line source speakers - 10 SB Acoustics midwoofers, 10 Fountek ribbon tweeters. JL Audio Fathom f112 Subs
    Wire - T G Audio, Shunyata, Synergistic Research , Audioquest, Lewis silver foil, Duelund, Transparent.

  14. #14
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Delija View Post
    Welcome aboard!

    Could you please share your system?
    Accuphase amps, Micro Seiki and Harman Kardon sources, Acoustat speakers.

    I am however looking for the right dac on the cheap for my computer to replace my highly tweeked ASUS sound card.

  15. #15
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post

    I am however looking for the right dac on the cheap for my computer to replace my highly tweeked ASUS sound card.
    done with digital?

  16. #16
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    Accuphase amps, Micro Seiki and Harman Kardon sources, Acoustat speakers.

    I am however looking for the right dac on the cheap for my computer to replace my highly tweeked ASUS sound card.
    The HiFi Rose RS150 is superb.


    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/

  17. #17
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by u-sound View Post
    done with digital?
    Unfortunately, my computer and cellphone are digital. Can't live without either one.

  18. #18
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The HiFi Rose RS150 is superb.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    A simple DAC under $1000 would be preferable. HiRes handling while nice isn't mandatory. I was thinking about a non-oversampling model even.

  19. #19
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    Re: Done with digital

    Same person has posted the same thread on numerous sites and never responded after that.

    Not that that is a bad thing just rather Troll-ish.

    If not, my apologies.
    Synology 1019D+ - SGC Sonictransporter I9 w Roon/HQ Player- UltraRendu- PBD Stream IF to Playback Designs MPS5 via fiber optic - ARC 40th Anniversary Pre - ARC 610 T's - Martin Logan CLX's - 4 Martin Logan Depth i Subs - Shunyata Hydra, DIY PCOCC interconnects, speaker cables and power cords with Furutech terminations. Blue Jeans CAT 6's. Acoustically treated room with one permanent chair.

  20. #20
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    A simple DAC under $1000 would be preferable. HiRes handling while nice isn't mandatory. I was thinking about a non-oversampling model even.
    A DAC under a $1000? Oh boy. I guess the Chord Mojo 2. We have those in stock.


    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/

  21. #21
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    A DAC under a $1000? Oh boy. I guess the Chord Mojo 2. We have those in stock.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    I have heard a lot of good things about it.

  22. #22

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    As a diehard analog guy (vinyl and tape), I would love to know what you tried as far as DAC’s, streamers, etc.

    The reason I ask is that although digital can be the equivalent of the excellent local buffet compared to the 3 star Michelin restaurant that is analog, I still really enjoy it, but boy, does it take work to get right.

    Bad digital is the Golden Corral of audio.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    Your original question was never answered by SoundMann. His response was a bunch of names of digital gear he has heard somewhere, but not gear he has owned. And now his budget for something he isn't going to buy is $1,000.
    Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.

    Reviewer for Positive Feedback

  23. #23
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    I am done with digital. After having suffered thru every digital format available over the years, and never liking the sound of any of it, I am putting all my time, money and effort into my analog front-ends (turntable and tapedeck).

    How many of you have a similar story to tell?
    There is simply too much music I listen to daily that was only recorded to digital for me to abandon digital; in fact the opposite, it is worth a lot to me to have the best digital playback I am willing to afford. For music originally recorded to analog that I feel it important to have the best sound quality I will continue to acquire R2R tapes.
    Rob
    __________________________
    Tascam BR-20; Technics 1506 with tape path upgrades, FM head, DeHavilland 222 tape head pre; Modwright Oppo 205 full tube mod w/LPS; Euphony Summus server, EtherRegen, HDPLEX LPS; MSB Discrete DAC (dual PS, ISLPro, balanced out); Pass Labs XP-12, XA60.8 (pair); Daedalus Audio Apollo 11’s, VMPS Larger Sub; Daedalus/Wywires, Acoustic Zen, Sablon Audio, Wireworld, Shunyata Research cables; Core Power Equi=Power;
    Adona rack, ​​​​​Stillpoints, IsoPods, ASC, GIK Acoustics accessories

  24. #24
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by mep View Post
    Your original question was never answered by SoundMann. His response was a bunch of names of digital gear he has heard somewhere, but not gear he has owned. And now his budget for something he isn't going to buy is $1,000.
    I have owned only a few digital products. I most recently owned a Micromega Stage 3 (broken transport) that sounded acceptable once I bought an expensive interconnect, power cord, line filter and footers for it.

    My current highly tweeked sound card sounds acceptable with vinyl-sourced streams.

  25. #25

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by mep View Post
    Your original question was never answered by SoundMann. His response was a bunch of names of digital gear he has heard somewhere, but not gear he has owned. And now his budget for something he isn't going to buy is $1,000.
    And currently he's using PC and ASUS soundcard as DAC...
    Devialet Expert 440 Pro | Dynaudio Confidence 50 | 2x SVS SB16-Ultra
    Anthem MRX 720 | Dynaudio Excite X28 | Dynaudio Emit M20
    LG OLED 77 CX | LG OLED 65 C7

  26. #26
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Delija View Post
    And currently he's using PC and ASUS soundcard as DAC...
    You missed the part where I stated that I am looking for a better dac for it!

  27. #27

    Re: Done with digital

    The point is a judgment about digital sources based on a system without proper digital source.
    Devialet Expert 440 Pro | Dynaudio Confidence 50 | 2x SVS SB16-Ultra
    Anthem MRX 720 | Dynaudio Excite X28 | Dynaudio Emit M20
    LG OLED 77 CX | LG OLED 65 C7

  28. #28
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Delija View Post
    The point is a judgment about digital sources based on a system without proper digital source.
    You missed the part where I stated that I have heard some of the worlds best dacs!

  29. #29
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    Re: Done with digital

    SoundMann - It would be helpful for you to list your components. Many here have a wealth of experience with DACs across many price points. You are likely to get some very helpful insights.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  30. #30

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    You missed the part where I stated that I have heard some of the worlds best dacs!
    Where? In shops? On hi-fi shows?
    Devialet Expert 440 Pro | Dynaudio Confidence 50 | 2x SVS SB16-Ultra
    Anthem MRX 720 | Dynaudio Excite X28 | Dynaudio Emit M20
    LG OLED 77 CX | LG OLED 65 C7

  31. #31
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Delija View Post
    Where? In shops? On hi-fi shows?
    In highly tweeked hi end rooms and systems.

  32. #32

    Re: Done with digital

    How can you be "done with digital" when you didn't even started with digital?


    Just like I thought...
    Another trolling topic
    Devialet Expert 440 Pro | Dynaudio Confidence 50 | 2x SVS SB16-Ultra
    Anthem MRX 720 | Dynaudio Excite X28 | Dynaudio Emit M20
    LG OLED 77 CX | LG OLED 65 C7

  33. #33
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    SoundMann - It would be helpful for you to list your components. Many here have a wealth of experience with DACs across many price points. You are likely to get some very helpful insights.
    OK. My system is comprised of an Accuphase C-250 preamp and P-350 amp, as well as a C17 phonostage. My amp is being recapped, so I am temporarily using a Sony GX900ES receiver.

    My turntable is a Micro Seiki BL-51, with both a MA-505 and Grace 707 tonearms.

    The cartridges are an Air Tight PC7, and a Signet TK7e. Both currently need retipping.

    My cassette deck is a Harman Kardon TD202. I swear that it sounds better on prerecorded cassettes than my old Nakamichi 1000.

    My speakers are a hybrid between Acoustat Spectra 11's, and Polk SDA 2B's used as bass modules.

    I currently live in a small apartment. I would like to buy a dac for my computer new or used for no more than $1000.

  34. #34
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Delija View Post
    How can you be "done with digital" when you didn't even started with digital?


    Just like I thought...
    Another trolling topic
    I can't afford a Zanden 5000, which is the only dac that I have heard that I feel that I can live with!

  35. #35

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    OK. My system is comprised of an Accuphase C-250 preamp and P-350 amp, as well as a C17 phonostage. My amp is being recapped, so I am temporarily using a Sony GX900ES receiver.

    My turntable is a Micro Seiki BL-51, with both a MA-505 and Grace 707 tonearms.

    The cartridges are an Air Tight PC7, and a Signet TK7e. Both currently need retipping.

    My cassette deck is a Harman Kardon TD202. I swear that it sounds better on prerecorded cassettes than my old Nakamichi 1000.

    My speakers are a hybrid between Acoustat Spectra 11's, and Polk SDA 2B's used as bass modules.

    I currently live in a small apartment. I would like to buy a dac for my computer new or used for no more than $1000.
    Can we see some pictures of your system?
    Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.

    Reviewer for Positive Feedback

  36. #36
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by mep View Post
    Can we see some pictures of your system?
    No. What would it prove?

  37. #37
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    Re: Done with digital

    Mile high air is never good for digital

    While I was obviously pulling your chain a wee bit I'm in the camp that when done right both are truly enjoyable and when not, I'd rather cut the grass .......
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  38. #38

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    No. What would it prove?
    That you actually have the system you described.
    Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.

    Reviewer for Positive Feedback

  39. #39
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by mep View Post
    That you actually have the system you described.
    I also have brain cancer too. Are you going to demand pictures of it?

  40. #40
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    Re: Done with digital

    really sorry to hear that! my very best friend has this too, grade2. worlds best doctor for that is mr.duffau in montpellier, france. (awake operation for not damaging anything.

    as for the dac, the asus card is all right. if you would want to improve significantly you would need to optimize the whole topology from switches, reclocker etc and that is very expensive.
    tt is way cheaper

  41. #41

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    I also have brain cancer too. Are you going to demand pictures of it?
    I didn't demand to see pictures of your system, I asked if we could see pictures of it.
    Micro Seiki SX-8000 air bearing table, SME 312s arm, SME 3012R arn, Dynavector XV-1s cartridge, Lyra Etna SL cartridge, ARC Ref 3 phono stage, Otari MX-55 2 track R2R, Ampex 350 tape repros, Roon Nucleus Plus music server, HiFi Rose 150B DAC, ARC Ref 6, ARC Ref 75 with KT-150s, Parasound JC5 amp , JBL 4345 speakers, Viero Equilibro Level 3 speaker cables, and Definitive Technology Ref subs.

    Reviewer for Positive Feedback

  42. #42
    Senior Member
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    Re: Done with digital

    The Border Patrol DAC is an option worth exploring. Very different from the sound of typical digital and while a little more than $1k still in the ball park.
    Buddy

    Boulder 1160 Amp, 1110 Pre-Amp
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  43. #43
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Mikado463 View Post
    Mile high air is never good for digital
    ..
    Or for electrostatic speakers with a relatively small panel area…
    Rob
    __________________________
    Tascam BR-20; Technics 1506 with tape path upgrades, FM head, DeHavilland 222 tape head pre; Modwright Oppo 205 full tube mod w/LPS; Euphony Summus server, EtherRegen, HDPLEX LPS; MSB Discrete DAC (dual PS, ISLPro, balanced out); Pass Labs XP-12, XA60.8 (pair); Daedalus Audio Apollo 11’s, VMPS Larger Sub; Daedalus/Wywires, Acoustic Zen, Sablon Audio, Wireworld, Shunyata Research cables; Core Power Equi=Power;
    Adona rack, ​​​​​Stillpoints, IsoPods, ASC, GIK Acoustics accessories

  44. #44
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by rbbert View Post
    Or for electrostatic speakers with a relatively small panel area…
    Wouldn't that only be true for panels that produce bass?

  45. #45
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Audio 1 View Post
    The Border Patrol DAC is an option worth exploring. Very different from the sound of typical digital and while a little more than $1k still in the ball park.
    Awesome DAC. Redbook only, but beautiful sounding.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
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  46. #46
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    Re: Done with digital

    I had a good TEAC cassette deck and loads of tapes I made on high bias cassettes, I got rid of it all decades ago because it didn't even come close to a top level Arcam CDP I had.. I worked at a store that sold HK. I can understand a preference for a good turntable, but cassettes?

    I understand some people are sensitive to "digital ringing", I wonder if you have ever heard a DAC with different filters, some are not as linear but eliminate the ringing, some just the post ringing, some just the pre.

    Audio Note isn't my thing, I like the DAC's but seem to go well with certain music, however, definitely not digital sounding.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
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  47. #47
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    I had a good TEAC cassette deck and loads of tapes I made on high bias cassettes, I got rid of it all decades ago because it didn't even come close to a top level Arcam CDP I had.. I worked at a store that sold HK. I can understand a preference for a good turntable, but cassettes?
    Cassettes are the same as digital for me, for casual listening, but smoother and more natural.

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    I understand some people are sensitive to "digital ringing", I wonder if you have ever heard a DAC with different filters, some are not as linear but eliminate the ringing, some just the post ringing, some just the pre.
    The Zanden 5000 completely eliminates it.

  48. #48
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Mar 2017
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    Lakewood Ranch, FL
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    326

    Re: Done with digital

    Interesting that you wouldn’t show pictures of your system. Perhaps there is something else going on here.
    MAIN SYSTEM - SST Ambrosia 2000 Second Edition Preamp, SST Son of Ampzilla II Amp, PS Audio Directstream DAC w/Bridge II, PS Audio Directstream Memory Player, PS Audio P3 Power Plant, Focal Sopra No. 1 Speakers, ELAC 3070 Sub, Roon Nucleus w/8TB SSD storage

    HOME OFFICE SYSTEM - HiFi Rose RS250, KEF LS50W Nocturne Speakers

  49. #49
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    Jun 2014
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    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by SoundMann View Post
    ...
    The Zanden 5000 completely eliminates it.
    Where did you get this (incorrect) information??
    Rob
    __________________________
    Tascam BR-20; Technics 1506 with tape path upgrades, FM head, DeHavilland 222 tape head pre; Modwright Oppo 205 full tube mod w/LPS; Euphony Summus server, EtherRegen, HDPLEX LPS; MSB Discrete DAC (dual PS, ISLPro, balanced out); Pass Labs XP-12, XA60.8 (pair); Daedalus Audio Apollo 11’s, VMPS Larger Sub; Daedalus/Wywires, Acoustic Zen, Sablon Audio, Wireworld, Shunyata Research cables; Core Power Equi=Power;
    Adona rack, ​​​​​Stillpoints, IsoPods, ASC, GIK Acoustics accessories

  50. #50
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    Dec 2018
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    San Jose, CA
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    455

    Re: Done with digital

    Quote Originally Posted by rbbert View Post
    Where did you get this (incorrect) information??
    I don't really know much about the Zanden 5000, but it is described as using no oversampling and a custom analog filter intended to minimize or have linear phase. Given the frequency response measurements on Stereophile show fairly early and significant high-frequency roll-off I would hazard a guess they are using a slow roll-off filter that could have very little pre- or post-ringing, like the options in the AK449X series of DAC chips. But this obviously comes at a significant cost in other areas, especially when not accepting sample rates higher than 44.1kHz (which the Zanden 5000 appears to be limited to).
    Neko Audio
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Done with digital

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