Results 51 to 100 of 165
Thread: MSB Select II
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July 15, 2018, 02:05 PM #51
- Join Date
- Aug 2014
- Location
- east of Seattle
- Posts
- 821
Re: MSB Select II
Giorgio,
your rack and gear look great. I do have a suggestion. it has been my experience that allowing each Select II power supply a separate shelf seems to sound much better. it's about the two power supplies not interacting mechanically. and this separate shelf issue trumps the level of resonance isolation applied.
I know that the MSB design allows the stacking and it does look elegant. and possibly that is just my own experience.
it looks like you could reasonably add one more shelf unit to your stack to solve that issue.
when we go down the Select II pathway, we are already all in.
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July 15, 2018, 02:26 PM #52
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 54
Re: MSB Select II
Thank you, Mike L, for the suggestion!
I will most certainly try it out like that and report back with the outcome.
With the new speaker and streaming cables coming in, it is a great summer of listening to look forward to!
best, GN
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August 24, 2018, 05:09 PM #53
Re: MSB Select II
Break in update:
Things changed again, very much for the best, around the 1200 hour mark.
Most noticeable was the bass. Deeper, firmer and more defined. Also, the top end has gotten much more delicate. Trumpet and sax, WOW!
Man, the Select II is a great piece. I haven't enjoyed my music this much in years.
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August 24, 2018, 05:45 PM #54Speaker: Rockport Avior & Mira, B&W 803 D
Amp: Nagra HD Monos, McIntosh Mc303 & 601
Pre: Nagra HD pre
Source: Esoteric K-01X & G-01, Aurender W20
Cable: Transparent Ref Gen 5 SC & Ref XL PC
Grounding: Tripoint Elite, Thor SE, Emperor Mkii
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August 24, 2018, 05:47 PM #55
Re: MSB Select II
Outstanding! You have a superb DAC, enjoy!
_______________
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
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August 24, 2018, 07:36 PM #56
Re: MSB Select II
Roon via the MSB renderer
Select II as the preamp
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August 25, 2018, 11:15 AM #57
Re: MSB Select II
I wish I could play in all your guys park. I bought the Mojo Audio DAC and it stomps all the other DAC I have had prior. I can relate to the not seeking analog as the digital is very satisfying now. I can only dream what it would be like with the full Select II setup you are running. Keel the updates coming. I like reading them. Some comparison to what you were using would be nice. Thanks.
First Sound Mark3SI preamp. Audion Black Shadow 845 SET Monoblocks. Mojo Audio Deja Vu Server. Mojo Audio Mystic 3 DAC. Linear Solution Ethernet Switch. Gigafoil with LPS. STST Motus II TT with Vertere SG1 arm, Hana ML Cartridge, Allnic H1201 phono pre. Pure Audio Project Trio 15 Horn speakers with Mundord Supreme oil caps. Power via 10 awg Oyaide cable from panel to custom distribution strip feeding front end. Oyaide dedicated10 AWG branch circuits from panel to each amp. Inakustik speaker and interconnect cables, Genesis Interconnect.
Kingrexelectric.com Lyncole certified grounding specialist.
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August 25, 2018, 04:24 PM #58"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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
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August 27, 2018, 10:45 AM #59
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August 27, 2018, 10:58 AM #60
Re: MSB Select II
That’s a world class system you have there. Congratulations! How are you liking your Magico M6’s compared to the M-Project’s you replaced? How’s the Nagra HD amps’ synergy with the Select II DAC and M6’s? I heard the Nagra HD system at RMAF and was extremely impressed with it.
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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
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August 27, 2018, 11:01 AM #61
Re: MSB Select II
I am calling BS on this. If you had the M6s you would have posted comments on the M6 threads - or, if I am wrong and you do have them, then you are not a team player.
Digital: Innuos Zenith Mk3 Server + MSB Premier DAC with Powerbase
Amp: Gryphon Pandora + Gryphon Antileon Evo Stereo
Speakers: Magico S3 MkII
Cables: MIT SL-Matrix 36 XLR interconnect cables + 70 speaker cables; AQ Diamond & Vodka ethernet cables
Power: AQ Niagara 5000 + AQ Tornado power cables
Headphones (travel): Sennheiser Momentum + Chord Mojo
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August 27, 2018, 11:22 AM #62
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/
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August 27, 2018, 11:25 AM #63
Re: MSB Select II
Thanks for the save (!). Big blushes and an apology to Kingsrule. Humble pie well eaten.
Digital: Innuos Zenith Mk3 Server + MSB Premier DAC with Powerbase
Amp: Gryphon Pandora + Gryphon Antileon Evo Stereo
Speakers: Magico S3 MkII
Cables: MIT SL-Matrix 36 XLR interconnect cables + 70 speaker cables; AQ Diamond & Vodka ethernet cables
Power: AQ Niagara 5000 + AQ Tornado power cables
Headphones (travel): Sennheiser Momentum + Chord Mojo
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October 13, 2018, 05:42 PM #64
Re: MSB Select II
Just got Renderer -V2 for Select II today to replace MQA-quadrate-USB for Tidal. I was totally blown away. It is that good.
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October 13, 2018, 09:19 PM #65Fleetwood 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.
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October 14, 2018, 12:13 PM #66
Re: MSB Select II
Source Analog: Kuzma Stabi R w/4point 11 arm | Kuzma 50 Cartridge
Source Digital: Aurender N10 | Brinkmann Nyquist MK II
Amplification: Dan D’Agostino Momentum HD and M400’s | Boulder 508
Speakers: Wilson Alexias
Cabling: Nordost Leif, Norse, V2 and Odin
Power and Isolation: Audio-Ultra Home & Room Power Foundation Performance Package with StromTank S1000 | HRS
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October 14, 2018, 12:18 PM #67
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/
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January 13, 2019, 07:14 AM #68
- Join Date
- May 2015
- Posts
- 100
Re: MSB Select II
Select DAC owners please give your experience how good the built preamp is. Can it really replace top class preamp?
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January 13, 2019, 07:55 AM #69
Re: MSB Select II
Over the years I've had several excellent pre-amps in my systems made by Krell and Mark Levinson. They gave the sound a rich, full bodied density that was very pleasing. When I transitioned to a dCS stack, I lost the pre-amp and went direct to the mono blocks. The sound was excellent but I didn't realize what I had lost until I auditioned the Select II. That richness returned in a way I wouldn't have thought possible. Dynamics on percussion instruments were instant and convincing. I see no reason to every use a pre-amp again.
EricWadax Reference DAC and Server
CH Precision L10 PreAmp
CH Precision M10 Amplifier
Rockport Orion speakers
Nordost ODIN 2 speaker cables and interconnects
StromTank 2500 Power Supply
Shunyata Sigma QR power cords
Shunyata Everest power conditioner
Vicoustics Room Treatments
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January 13, 2019, 08:02 AM #70
- Join Date
- May 2015
- Posts
- 100
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January 13, 2019, 08:44 AM #71
Re: MSB Select II
"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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
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January 13, 2019, 11:31 AM #72
Re: MSB Select II
"We all know real when we hear it"
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January 13, 2019, 12:01 PM #73
Re: MSB Select II
Horsepucky
The comparable MSB Select II lists for about $147k or 50% more. Yes the Select II is really excellent but since I am not willing to pay $150k for any product as a source. I haven't brought the Select II in to demo as my dealers know I won't ask to audition any product I have no intention of purchasing. I did bring I the Reference set-up to A/B against my 3 piece stack and it offered ia sound that was just different not better. Like any audio component there will be those who prefer one over the other. The Reference and dCS DAC/Clock/Upsampler are both in the high $60's.
If you think the Vivaldi is the same unit that was released in 2012 then you haven't been paying attention to the mostly "free" updates. (The Upsampler board was a charge)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
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January 13, 2019, 02:30 PM #74
Re: MSB Select II
For the record, I think a fully pimped out Select II is closer to $115k.
http://www.msbtechnology.com/dacs/select-pricing/
As a side, I have another Vivaldi 2.0 stack coming in on trade if someone is interested in a smoking deal.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMy 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/
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January 13, 2019, 02:53 PM #75
Re: MSB Select II
Mike
He alluded to dCS at ~$100 which means he included the ~$35k transport.
Form the MSB site:
Select II DAC. $84.5
Dual Mono Power $19.5
Femto 33 $9.5
MQA Module $1.6
Renderer $2.0
Transport $24.5
Transport Power Base $16.5. (not sure if you can plug this into one of the Dual Mono's)
That is somewhere between $140K and $155k.
Not including additional inputs/outputs, etc.
Anyone who is playing in that sandbox should look at the Select II.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
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January 13, 2019, 02:55 PM #76
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/
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January 13, 2019, 04:52 PM #77
Re: MSB Select II
Bogus Jim. U have to add another $20k in cables to hook all the dCS boxes up
And I never compared any pricing....just said everyone was enamored with a $100k stack.....
Money has nothing to do with sonics if u want to compare dCS vs. MSB
Please. The dCS sandbox isn't in the same world as MSB...
But if u insist ...the MSB Premier Dac is close to the Vivaldi and the Reference destroys it....
The Select II is in a realm u will never understand.
All u see is the stack of dCS boxes in your system...."We all know real when we hear it"
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January 13, 2019, 05:41 PM #78
Re: MSB Select II
What do you think I haven't heard the Select II? I have listened at three locations including my local dealer and MIke's store last year. Mike's set-up was "excellent" and the Select was the best sounding of the digital gear we listened to. That said when I returned home I never felt I was missing something. (other than the ability to get speakers as far into the room as he can)
During a A/B in my system the Reference you think so highly of sounded good but hardly spectacular and didn't to make me consider moving from the dCS stack. The dealer is getting another renderer module and wants try and compare them again. I tried it direct and thru my Dag pre-amp. I felt it sounded much better via the pre-amp.
Maybe in your world money is not a consideration. In mine the Select II, the Relentless and Magnum Opus are not a smart option.
You really lose al credibility when you state component A destroys component B. That just doesn't happen in the real world. It is a figment of your imagination.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
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January 13, 2019, 06:29 PM #79
Re: MSB Select II
Hi Jim,
I’m not looking to get in the middle of this but I think even the base Select II DAC would make you extremely happy. It’s better than a loaded Reference due to double the number of DAC modules. Also, no need for a transport once you’ve listened to the Renderer input module.
Best,
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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
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January 13, 2019, 06:29 PM #80
Re: MSB Select II
Last time:
Just because the Vivaldi is the top dCS product and Select II is the top MSB product DOES NOT IN ANY WAY mean the two are comparable.
Why can't u understand that....Is it that hard?
You always defend and say what u already own is better. You did that for years with your Meridian 808 when it was way long in the tooth. Same with the rest of your gear. Now u are doing that with your dCS.
And why are u bringing money into this conservation? I never did...
Mostly you are right about A destroying B but in the case of dCS vs. MSB, it's no contest. In your terminology, dCS is not a smart option....
Also, I'm very confident in my credibility. U have the imagination problem...."We all know real when we hear it"
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January 13, 2019, 07:56 PM #81
- Join Date
- Apr 2015
- Posts
- 634
Re: MSB Select II
Simaudio Moon Neo 260 DT CD Transport / MIT SL-Matrix Plus AES/EBU digital cable / Schiit Yggdrasil Analog 2 DAC / Octave HP 700 preamp / Octave RE 320 stereo amp with Super Black Box / Reference 3A Reflector monitors on Sound Anchors Signature Stands / dual JL Audio Fathom 112 v2 subwoofers on ASC SubTraps / ZenWave Audio D4 and SMSG cables / Acoustic treatment: tube traps, Tri-panels, window plugs, ceiling diffusers (all ASC), large absorbing panels (Acoustics First), diverse carpets chosen for acoustic properties: wool, polypropylene basket-weave
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January 13, 2019, 08:37 PM #82
Re: MSB Select II
Just get the best Schiit DAC and it crushes all others. Everyone knows that.
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January 13, 2019, 10:43 PM #83
- Join Date
- Apr 2015
- Posts
- 634
Re: MSB Select II
Not really. I have the Schiit Yggdrasil DAC, and it is an extraordinary DAC with a natural sound and enormous resolution -- both timbral micro-detail and separation of instruments -- that you can hear if your system and acoustics allow (my new ceiling diffusers have unlocked even more of the Yggdrasil's uncanny prowess in that respect). Yet I cannot imagine that it is the end all be all. I would be extremely surprised if a top MSB DAC would not beat it.
Having said that, a friend and I compared the Yggdrasil multiple times in his system with dCS Vivaldi and Upsampler (no Vivaldi clock) and consistently preferred the Yggdrasil to the Vivaldi combo ($ 2,300 vs $ 55,000 MSRP w/o cables). My friend ended up selling the Vivaldi in favor of the Yggdrasil.Simaudio Moon Neo 260 DT CD Transport / MIT SL-Matrix Plus AES/EBU digital cable / Schiit Yggdrasil Analog 2 DAC / Octave HP 700 preamp / Octave RE 320 stereo amp with Super Black Box / Reference 3A Reflector monitors on Sound Anchors Signature Stands / dual JL Audio Fathom 112 v2 subwoofers on ASC SubTraps / ZenWave Audio D4 and SMSG cables / Acoustic treatment: tube traps, Tri-panels, window plugs, ceiling diffusers (all ASC), large absorbing panels (Acoustics First), diverse carpets chosen for acoustic properties: wool, polypropylene basket-weave
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January 14, 2019, 02:07 AM #84
Re: MSB Select II
You are so far out of touch it is unbelievable. You just assume that the Meridian was long in tooth but forget that it went from v3 to v4 v5 and v6. Get it through your head I don’t purchase anything that doesn’t get A/B’d in my system. I actually had the Rossini, meridian and MSB DAC IV or V(?) to compare at one time. The MSB was great on standard CD, the upsampling was what put the Rossini ahead and the Meridian lack of DXD capabilies started to show. Unti The changes in the Vivaldi to v2 were enough in my book to bring it in for a listen and when they indicated that MQA was imminent I liked the additional filter and mapping options it offered.
It’s funny I am not the one trashing other products here or on the other sites. People buy products for a variety of reasons. You seem to think there is actually a “best” for everyone. There are many dealers where the owners can’t even agree which of their products is best in any category. But then you do.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
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January 14, 2019, 03:59 PM #85
- Join Date
- Jan 2014
- Location
- Los Angeles
- Posts
- 1,775
Re: MSB Select II
'm not going to step into the dCS vs MSB sonic fight (I am biased and obviously prefer one to the other)
But Jim, the pricing is misleading - the Ref Dac is $41.5k with a single, *massive* powerbase and renderer. If you add the passive preamp, it costs more but then you sell your preamp to do so. The separate mono power supplies and clock are optional and upgradeable over time. The clock doesn't require a new box, either.
If you fully trick out a Reference dac, better off buying a bone stock Select2 from most reports.Brinkmann Bardo w/ EMT HSD-006 cart, MSB Reference DAC --> Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL --> Ampzilla 2000, 2nd Edition --> Fyne Audio F1-12
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January 14, 2019, 05:32 PM #86
Re: MSB Select II
How do you play your records or tape if you sell your preamp. Is the select an analog preamp also. Is it a digital preamp ? Digital pre would be a non starter for analog enthusiast.
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January 14, 2019, 05:37 PM #87
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/
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January 14, 2019, 06:50 PM #88
Re: MSB Select II
With the high-output power provided by the Hybrid DAC modules, the need for amplification is eliminated. The signal is attenuated with new technology that provides a constant low impedance output without any active circuitry (no transistors, buffers or op-amps). This allows the Select or Reference DAC’s remarkable audio quality to be truly independent of volume setting. It’s a remarkable feat of electrical design that sets a new benchmark in the industry. The output modules are individually tuned for maximum quality balance or single-ended audio.
With sideways expansion, the preamp has the ability for additional analog inputs, isolated sub outputs, and extra analog outputs.
"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
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January 14, 2019, 09:22 PM #89
Re: MSB Select II
So the Ref or Select are full on preamps. I could run my tape deck and TT pre right into it. It won't do any analog to digital conversion. Do either by any chance have a phone pre module.
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January 14, 2019, 10:14 PM #90
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/
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August 17, 2020, 07:28 PM #91
Re: MSB Select II
Mike did you try your Select ll direct into Mephisto stereo ? if so how is that combo ?
Speaker System : Thiel CS 3.7 - Vitus SIA-025 Mk2 - Aqua Acoustics LinQ - Aqua Acoustics Formula xHD Rev 2 - Fanless Intel NUC + Sbooster Mkll - Farad Super 3 - Paul Pang Quad Switch - Pink Faun LAN cables - Cardas Clear Beyond IC and SC - Furutech DSP 4.1 Power cables - Audioquest Niagara 3000 Power Conditioner - Woodlink Rack - Roon Rock - Qobuz & Tidal.
Headphone Rig : Hifiman HE-1000SE - Kennerton Ondin Mk2 - Chord Hugo 2 - Smartphone - Qobuz & Tidal.
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August 17, 2020, 07:41 PM #92
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/
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August 18, 2020, 11:19 AM #93
Re: MSB Select II
Source Analog: Kuzma Stabi R w/4point 11 arm | Kuzma 50 Cartridge
Source Digital: Aurender N10 | Brinkmann Nyquist MK II
Amplification: Dan D’Agostino Momentum HD and M400’s | Boulder 508
Speakers: Wilson Alexias
Cabling: Nordost Leif, Norse, V2 and Odin
Power and Isolation: Audio-Ultra Home & Room Power Foundation Performance Package with StromTank S1000 | HRS
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August 18, 2020, 02:08 PM #94
Re: MSB Select II
Do you guys who are using your Select ll DAC direct into an amp with only the renderer for streaming don't miss the qualities of top notch separate preamp and streamer ?
Speaker System : Thiel CS 3.7 - Vitus SIA-025 Mk2 - Aqua Acoustics LinQ - Aqua Acoustics Formula xHD Rev 2 - Fanless Intel NUC + Sbooster Mkll - Farad Super 3 - Paul Pang Quad Switch - Pink Faun LAN cables - Cardas Clear Beyond IC and SC - Furutech DSP 4.1 Power cables - Audioquest Niagara 3000 Power Conditioner - Woodlink Rack - Roon Rock - Qobuz & Tidal.
Headphone Rig : Hifiman HE-1000SE - Kennerton Ondin Mk2 - Chord Hugo 2 - Smartphone - Qobuz & Tidal.
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August 18, 2020, 05:16 PM #95
Re: MSB Select II
I own the Select II DAC with Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus, and I absolutely do not miss having a preamp or a streamer. I had owned the ARC REF10 Preamp, which was a tremendous sounding component, but didn’t sound nearly as pure as running directly from the Select II’s preamp module to my mono amps.
I have also found the Roon Nucleus Plus, used in conjunction with the Renderer V2 Module, to be the nearly ideal solution in terms of sound quality and functionality. Over two years of operation with zero glitches. I love the Roon interface’s intuitiveness and ease of operation and have no desire to try anything else.
Some have moved to the Pro USB Module, mainly because they are utilizing the Taiko SGM Extreme or Aurender W20SE as a server, and USB is their best connection. While the Pro USB Module has more ease due to the removal of line noise through its optical Pro ISL connection, I still prefer the level of detail and amount of bass I receive through the Renderer V2 Module. In addition, as I am one that has the habit of constantly riding the volume control, I prefer the Renderer V2 Module because I can adjust the Select II’s analog volume through the Roon interface on my IPad, whereas this function does not work on the Pro USB Module, so you have to use the Select II’s remote control.
Best,
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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
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August 22, 2020, 10:09 AM #96
Re: MSB Select II
Ken, I didn't know you actually tried the PRO USB Module.
I have both the V2 Renderer and PRO USB Module for use on the S II Dac.
The PRO USB Module is far superior sonically. Clearer, more detail, subterranean bass, quieter, better dimension and layering. Not to mention it plays all resolutions....
I thought I'd miss the volume control function of the V2, but quickly didn't care as the sonic improvement of the PRO USB is overwhelming
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August 23, 2020, 03:53 AM #97
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 54
Re: MSB Select II
For what it is worth, I have both the Renderer and ProISL input modules in Select II, being fed from a Nucleus+, playing through a Naim Statement, so with a preamp.
I have not been able to come up with a definitive view on which input is better. It seems to me that there is a difference, and a repeatable one, depending on the source material, which for me are various locally stored CD recordings and Tidal streaming across all quality levels.
Best, GN
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August 23, 2020, 07:24 AM #98
Re: MSB Select II
"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
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October 4, 2020, 06:17 PM #99
Re: MSB Select II
A question to MSB owners. How do you like the DSD performance compared to redbook ?
I have the Select at home right now. With all my lampi DACs, I much prefere the DSD. There is substantial difference when going from Red Book to DSD editions, as expected.
With the Select .... hmm, I'm not sure. I think I actually prefer the PCM - at least after just two days of listening.
Adam
Speakers: Magico M3
Amp: Dagostino Momentum Stereo
Digital: Lampi Horizon + Lampi DSD Komputer
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October 4, 2020, 08:18 PM #100
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/
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Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
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