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Thread: MSB Select II

  1. #1
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    MSB Select II

    Mike L, Alex, and anyone else with a Select II, are you guys using MSB DSD optimized or native DSD?


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    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.

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  2. #2
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    Re: MSB Select II

    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: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Mike L, Alex, and anyone else with a Select II, are you guys using MSB DSD optimized or native DSD?


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    yes; easily prefer 'optimized' to standard/native dsd.

  4. #4
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    MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike Lavigne View Post
    yes; easily prefer 'optimized' to standard/native dsd.
    Thanks. I’m hearing the same thing.


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    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

    Re: MSB Select II

    Optimized.

    The effect is remarkable.

    And if you use a server of some kind, don't upsample. That includes the SGM. Always pass it straight through.

  6. #6
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    MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by asiufy View Post
    Optimized.

    The effect is remarkable.

    And if you use a server of some kind, don't upsample. That includes the SGM. Always pass it straight through.
    Yup. Thanks. That’s the way I’m doing it. I don’t like the sound of upsampled myself.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    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/

  7. #7

    Re: MSB Select II

    Optimized

  8. #8
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Optimized means upsampled ?
    Adam

    Speakers: Magico M3
    Amp: Dagostino Momentum Stereo
    Digital: Lampi Horizon + Lampi DSD Komputer

  9. #9

    Re: MSB Select II

    No. It's just a different way of configuring the Hybrid DAC modules to accept/play DSD.

    This was a software upgrade introduced sometime early this year, along with a new 16/44 filter.

  10. #10
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by asiufy View Post
    No. It's just a different way of configuring the Hybrid DAC modules to accept/play DSD.

    This was a software upgrade introduced sometime early this year, along with a new 16/44 filter.
    I heard this upgrade before (Friday and Saturday) and after (Sunday) at Axpona this year. The difference on CD and SACD was huge, game changing as a matter of fact.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  11. #11
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    Re: MSB Select II

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmEy-CKZi28


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    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/

  12. #12
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    Re: MSB Select II






    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    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/

  13. #13
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmEy-CKZi28


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    Fantastic Mike! Just sublime!
    2 Channel Stereo :
    Custom Win10 Transport | Mutec MC-3+ USB | Lampizator Amber | Acoustic Portrait Thiyaga | ATC SCM20PSL + JL Audio E-Sub e110

  14. #14

    Re: MSB Select II

    That would be the first time I have listened to a youtube post & chuckled from sheer joy. Great system, great sounds,... are the horns silent?

  15. #15
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by sharkmouth View Post
    That would be the first time I have listened to a youtube post & chuckled from sheer joy. Great system, great sounds,... are the horns silent?
    Thanks Kev, yes they are.
    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/

  16. #16

    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by sharkmouth View Post
    That would be the first time I have listened to a youtube post & chuckled from sheer joy. Great system, great sounds,... are the horns silent?

    +1 On that note I may have to change my tune on Avantgardes---

    They can entertain!

    Bruce

  17. #17
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Well Mike, how is the sound with the AG Duos at home?
    _______________

    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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  18. #18
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    Re: MSB Select II

    After a solid week of burn in, the Select II has continued to improve. To my amazement, it just keeps improving in all areas. It presents all formats with such ease and smoothness, but not smoothing out. Just natural, just so unprocessed without that edge. Redbook continues to just floor me. With few exceptions, it’s like listening to a pristinely clean copy of an album on the Kronos, but the lack of surface noise allows so much more micro details to come through.
    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/

  19. #19

    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    After a solid week of burn in, the Select II has continued to improve. To my amazement, it just keeps improving in all areas. It presents all formats with such ease and smoothness, but not smoothing out. Just natural, just so unprocessed without that edge. Redbook continues to just floor me. With few exceptions, it’s like listening to a pristinely clean copy of an album on the Kronos, but the lack of surface noise allows so much more micro details to come through.
    hence my opinion on digital to you, I do believe it is as good as anything else in the medium wars.

  20. #20
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post





    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    I still regret not having the time to audition this system...sigh.
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  21. #21
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by wisnon View Post
    I still regret not having the time to audition this system...sigh.
    Well its pretty cold in Switzerland about now , so get on a flight and head over , we have Plenty for you to hear before hitting Mike on the West Coast ...




  22. #22
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    After a solid week of burn in, the Select II has continued to improve. To my amazement, it just keeps improving in all areas. It presents all formats with such ease and smoothness, but not smoothing out. Just natural, just so unprocessed without that edge. Redbook continues to just floor me. With few exceptions, it’s like listening to a pristinely clean copy of an album on the Kronos, but the lack of surface noise allows so much more micro details to come through.
    originally seeing MikeL comments on the MSB and now yours i have no doubt its real. MikeL is a very serious player and for a very longtime , as you , not ideological at all , only the pursuit for excellence matters and with your additional comments ,


    This is very serious indeed .....

  23. #23
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    Well its pretty cold in Switzerland about now , so get on a flight and head over , we have Plenty for you to hear before hitting Mike on the West Coast ...



    Hahahah.

    Travel is the last thing on my mind after driving in zero visibility on the Autobahn list night for hours. Thank God the bad weather didnt have a VISA to enter Switzerland last night or I would have been delayed far more than 2 hours.
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  24. #24
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    originally seeing MikeL comments on the MSB and now yours i have no doubt its real. MikeL is a very serious player and for a very longtime , as you , not ideological at all , only the pursuit for excellent matters and with your additional comments ,


    This is very serious indeed .....
    It is. Ironically, i was NOT very impressed with the Select 1, but the TWO is a whole nother level!
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  25. #25
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by wisnon View Post
    It is. Ironically, i was NOT very impressed with the Select 1, but the TWO is a whole nother level!

    Yes does appear the TWO is a whole oddah level , so is the Price .


    ...


    Anyway Hurry Back i have a 8ft tall ESL with bespoke amps, i would like you to hear ..

  26. #26
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    Yes does appear the TWO is a whole oddah level , so is the Price .


    ...


    Anyway Hurry Back i have a 8ft tall ESL with bespoke amps, i would like you to hear ..
    Price didnt change, software did!
    From what I know about the Goldmund Proteus system, software can make all the difference, once the HW was top notch to start with.
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  27. #27

    Re: MSB Select II

    Renderer II is now shipping...
    Attached Images Attached Images

  28. #28
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    Re: MSB Select II

    My Transport with external PSU and Roon Renderer are arriving Wednesday along with the Audio Research REF160M’s. Christmas in April. MSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select II
    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/

  29. #29
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    My Transport with external PSU and Roon Renderer are arriving Wednesday along with the Audio Research REF160M’s. Christmas in April. MSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select II
    Wouu Mike , that is for sure like Christmas

    Flemming

  30. #30

    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    My Transport with external PSU and Roon Renderer are arriving Wednesday along with the Audio Research REF160M’s. Christmas in April. MSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select IIMSB Select II
    Yes very much looking forward to it. The one issue and I am sure I am wrong about this, is why the renderer will sound better than their USB based module based on the technology utilized by MSB. However, I will be very very pleasantly surprised to find my “hypothesis” wrong when my renderer arrives.

  31. #31

    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Priaptor View Post
    Yes very much looking forward to it. The one issue and I am sure I am wrong about this, is why the renderer will sound better than their USB based module based on the technology utilized by MSB. However, I will be very very pleasantly surprised to find my “hypothesis” wrong when my renderer arrives.
    Excellent news Mike on the transport!
    I am confident that the transport through MSB proprietary i2s will sound superior to all, while I doubt that USB can sound as good as renderer based source, given its noisy nature. With proviso, of course, that a decently isolated switch is used.
    I cannot wait to hear about your findings!
    Best, GN

  32. #32
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Priaptor View Post
    Yes very much looking forward to it. The one issue and I am sure I am wrong about this, is why the renderer will sound better than their USB based module based on the technology utilized by MSB. However, I will be very very pleasantly surprised to find my “hypothesis” wrong when my renderer arrives.
    No need, I compared already when I had the final prototype in the system. The roon renderer was the champ.
    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."

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  33. #33
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by GiorgioNuvolari View Post
    Excellent news Mike on the transport!
    I am confident that the transport through MSB proprietary i2s will sound superior to all, while I doubt that USB can sound as good as renderer based source, given its noisy nature. With proviso, of course, that a decently isolated switch is used.
    I cannot wait to hear about your findings!
    Best, GN
    It was incredible. Layering and layering of soundstage.
    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.

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  34. #34
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    Re: MSB Select II

    On the few devices I have tried ethernet has always won out versus USB.
    Jim

    D'Agostino Momentum M-400's MxV’s & HD Pre-amp
    Wilson Alexandria X2 Series 2 speakers
    Digital: dCS Vivaldi APEX DAC, Clock & Upsampler
    Analog: SME 20/3 with Esoteric E-03 Phono
    Transparent Opus Speaker Cable & Interconnects & Opus Power Cords
    Power Cords on Digital: Shunyata
    Power Conditioner - Shunyata Everest

  35. #35
    Senior Member
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike Lavigne View Post
    yes; easily prefer 'optimized' to standard/native dsd.
    Hi Mike,

    I hope all is well with you. I have a question for you. Approximately what percentage of time did you listen to digital, vinyl and tape before purchasing your Select II DAC and after purchasing your Select II DAC?

    I’m still patiently waiting for my Select II DAC. There seems to be a bit of a bottleneck in the anodizing process as they have an outside vendor anodize the chassis. And now we’re into summer vacations when everything slows down. I ordered mine in silver. Those who ordered black are receiving them more quickly as they had some black chassis in stock.

    Thanks,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  36. #36

    Re: MSB Select II

    My Select II arrived a few weeks ago

    At the 400 hour mark it was like WTF just happened? Just amazing sound.

    A bit up a down getting to the 400 hour plateau, u have to be patient......

  37. #37
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hi Mike,

    I hope all is well with you. I have a question for you. Approximately what percentage of time did you listen to digital, vinyl and tape before purchasing your Select II DAC and after purchasing your Select II DAC?
    hi Ken,

    prior to purchasing the Select II, I owned the Aqua Formula, the Lampi GG, and the Trinity dac......three excellent dacs. I'd say my digital was 40%-60% during that 18-20 month period.

    now, I'm more like 70-80% digital with the Select II. but it's not so simple as only the Select II difference with the digital side of things. I've also added more active Taiko Tana isolation devices (one under the dart pre and one under the MSB main dac box, and improved my passive isolation for the MSB power supplies and SGM server. and also, both mono blocks now have Taiko Tana active devices underneath.

    the digital performance is very satisfying.....and the degree of the pull of analog is considerably diminished. once I start actually playing vinyl or tape, it's still a different ball game. but I get there less these days.

    I’m still patiently waiting for my Select II DAC. There seems to be a bit of a bottleneck in the anodizing process as they have an outside vendor anodize the chassis. And now we’re into summer vacations when everything slows down. I ordered mine in silver. Those who ordered black are receiving them more quickly as they had some black chassis in stock.

    Thanks,
    Ken
    best wishes on a speedy delivery.

    Mike

  38. #38
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Ken - Hang in there, the Select II will arrive soon enough.
    _______________

    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

  39. #39
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike Lavigne View Post
    hi Ken,

    prior to purchasing the Select II, I owned the Aqua Formula, the Lampi GG, and the Trinity dac......three excellent dacs. I'd say my digital was 40%-60% during that 18-20 month period.

    now, I'm more like 70-80% digital with the Select II. but it's not so simple as only the Select II difference with the digital side of things. I've also added more active Taiko Tana isolation devices (one under the dart pre and one under the MSB main dac box, and improved my passive isolation for the MSB power supplies and SGM server. and also, both mono blocks now have Taiko Tana active devices underneath.

    the digital performance is very satisfying.....and the degree of the pull of analog is considerably diminished. once I start actually playing vinyl or tape, it's still a different ball game. but I get there less these days.



    best wishes on a speedy delivery.

    Mike
    Thanks Mike! These numbers are quite telling, even with all the additional isolation tweaks you’ve implemented. I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to attaining this level of sound quality. The MSB Select II DAC with Roon Nucleus Plus, Synology NAS, Tidal and MQA looks to be a true game changer for me and my system.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  40. #40
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    Ken - Hang in there, the Select II will arrive soon enough.
    Thanks Mike! Patience has never been my strong point. Yesterday wouldn’t be soon enough...LOL.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  41. #41

    Re: MSB Select II

    I can also add that Tidal -> Nucleus+ w/SSD -> MSB Renderer Mk2 -> MSB Select II is producing amazing results.
    I spent the whole night awake going through the MQA catalogue on Tidal.
    It is a phenomenal performance even compared to locally ripped redbook CDs.
    best, w

  42. #42
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by GiorgioNuvolari View Post
    I can also add that Tidal -> Nucleus+ w/SSD -> MSB Renderer Mk2 -> MSB Select II is producing amazing results.
    I spent the whole night awake going through the MQA catalogue on Tidal.
    It is a phenomenal performance even compared to locally ripped redbook CDs.
    best, w
    Congrats!! That’s the ideal setup IMO. Keep us posted on your new Select II and the sounds. Pics would be great too!
    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.

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  43. #43

    Re: MSB Select II

    Thanks Mike! I have found that the combination of Naim UnitiCore, Nucleus+ and MSB Select II is exceding my very high expectations. Both in playback of locally stored redbook, HiRes and DSD files, as well as in streaming of Tidal Masters MQA material.
    I am still to finalise the ethernet cabling (as I need three cables) and that is where my most critical listening is focused on as of late.
    Here is a simple view of the source rack.
    Happy listening to all, GN
    Attached Images Attached Images

  44. #44

    Re: MSB Select II

    Attached Images Attached Images

  45. #45

    Re: MSB Select II

    Did I do something wrong while posting a picture? I am not very good at that...

  46. #46
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Giorgio , your rack and equipment looks great
    Flemming

    Lumin X1
    Rotel Michi S5
    Focus Audio FS788

    Inter connect : Nordost Tyr 2 ( 2 Meter )
    LS cable : Yter
    Power Cables : Nordost Frey 2 ( 2 Meter )
    Nordost QB8
    Fibercable for feeding the Lumin X1
    Rack : Finite Elemente Pagode

  47. #47
    Senior Member
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Giorgio, given the level you are in and you still have an RJ45 cable missing, I would suggest you try the Göbel RJ45. I replaced one of my two RJ45 Audio Quest Diamond cables, by Göbel and the result was totally satisfactory.
    In fact, after a short time I also changed my two XLR cables between Lumin and AR Ref 5SE and between Ref 5SE and Constellation.
    Francisco

    Aries Cerat Kassandra Ref. MKII / Taiko Extreme Server / Gryphon Essence Preamplifier and Stereo Amplifier / Rockport Atria I / REL S-812 (2) / Göbel XLR (2), Göbel Ethernet and USB Cables / MIT Magnum MA Speakers Cables / Shunyata Everest 8000 / Shunyata Omega XC (1), Sigma NR V2 (4) and Alfa NR V1 (2) / Taiko Switch / Paul Hynes SR7T Double Rail / Farad Super3 / Doepke DFS-2 40A / GigaWatt G-C16A 2P / Fuse module AHP 4Gi / Center Stage2 0.8, 1.0 and 1.5

  48. #48

    Re: MSB Select II

    Thank you Mike, Francisco, and Flemming!
    My experience with Goebel has been less than ideal - several of my approaches went unanswered. While I really admire and appreciate their approach and commitment, there are elements of their presence that do not appeal to me. Further, in the two rooms at Munich this year, I was not moved by what I understand is their signature sound.
    Therefore, I am leaning towards Chord Music streaming cable, still to be auditioned.
    I have SoTM and JCAT streaming cables in the system now, and they both easily outperformed Audioquest which I took on as the initial reference. The switch I use is a simple 8 port HP industrial piece, which out performed other "audiophile" switches I auditioned.
    My XLR interconnects are all Gryphon VIP, a cable I consider regrettably under appreciated and not considered nearly enough.
    If I may, I recommend Gryphon VIP interconnects very warmly.
    Best, GN

  49. #49
    Senior Member
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    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by GiorgioNuvolari View Post
    Did I do something wrong while posting a picture? I am not very good at that...
    I thought, maybe you live near the Equator.

  50. #50

    Re: MSB Select II

    Quote Originally Posted by brodricj View Post
    I thought, maybe you live near the Equator.
    I see - looked good in my browser - thanks for the correction!
    best, GN

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