I got to hear the Aphrodite. The only thing I can compare it to is my memory of the Horizon 365 in the same system.
I get the models of the Lampizators mixed up. My friend has been with them for years and typically gets the latest DAC. I was partial to the model prior to the Horizon, it had a warmth and touch of lush the Horizon gave up for more control and detail.. IMO. I think most felt the Horizon was quite a break through. It was but I probably would have not upgraded, personal taste. With all that said these DAC's can really have their flavor altered with tube rolling, it can really change things.
The Aphrodite is a noticeable upgrade from the Horizon 365. There's even more detail and a level of realism and organic flavor the Horizon didn't have. Keep in mind as I'm comparing both DAC's are stellar. If I had the money and making the decision the Aphrodite was worth it. It gives me something I felt in that prior DAC I thought the Horizon was missing, in the Aphrodite though it comes across more as a natural feel to tones and textures with ample details.
All the top level DAC's I've heard have been in different rooms and systems so I don't say one is best. Besides most have their own character. I will say the Aphrodite is one of the best DAC's I've heard. Although things are different I know when I hear a capable DAC. I personally was not as excited about the jump to the Horizon as I am about the jump to the Aphrodite. If that made sense. In other words to my ears the horizon from the prior DAC was different, the jump from Horizon to Aphrodite is next level.
I hope my comments on the Horizon are understood, it's a great DAC but for me I'd give up some performance for a piece I more related to. I can relate to the Aphrodite like I could with the older DAC as well as enjoy how it surpasses the Horizon in performance.
