REVIEW: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors

General Asylum

General audio topics that don't fit into specific categories.

160.84.80.2

I received the AN DAC 1.1 already assembled by Michael Kerster of Audio Note. I am not a DIY kind of guy, much easier to write the check for me. Build quality was better than expected at this price point, although the screws holding the case together couldn't have been chintzier. I almost rounded a couple of them out trying to tighten things up. Small potatoes though. The face plate is attractive in an understated sort of way. Equipment under a grand usually has a much more industrial look than this.
As I mentioned before, the 1.1 needed a great deal of time to break in. I wouldn't swear that it isn't still cooking. Out of the box it was a little forward, and the bass somewhat boomy. After approximately 100 hrs. things were muuuuuch better. There was a more relaxed presentation to the music, the soundstage seemed to bloom effortlessly, where before things sounded a little constrained. The bass had also come around and settled in to a Goldilocks "just right".
As a matter of fact, the nether regions were one area where I am impressed the most. Bass lines are well defined and articulate. After reading some of the other reviews of this DAC, I thought that might be an area where I would have to compromise, but no. It is very easy to follow bass instruments way down in the mix. I guess I didn't realize how my old SFD2 was lacking in this respect. There is also plenty of impact and dynamics down below.
Soundstage depth is also quite impressive. My girlfriend, who is no audiophile, was quick to point out this improvement. I must say I was shocked that she was describing exactly what I was hearing without any prompting at all from me. Listening to the new Lyle Lovett "Live in Texas" ceedee made this readily apparent. The horns and drumkit are much further back, way beyond the front wall, and the back up singers more easily defined.
Which brings me to my last rave. Vocals. Things seem much more real, especially separation between vocalists. Even spooky real somtimes. I must say I like that very much. Midrange reproduction is something the AI preamp absolutely nails, and the 1.1 adds to that effect without "overdoing" it. The AN DAC reminds me of the BAT cdp when it comes to the crucial midrange. It is my opinion that tubes in the output stage of a digital product very much add to that naturalness, things sound much like they do in real life.
Caveats....well only one that I can think of. There is a slight low level hum that I can't get rid of. I have tried every configuration of plug orientation, ground lift, and cable routing to no avail. It is not obtrusive at the listening seat, only audible a couple of feet away from the speakers. I am not anal enough to let that worry me, but I think I have heard the hum mentioned before by others. It might be something that some people can't live with.
Ok, it's not vinyl. Close, but no cigar. As great as the AN makes digital sound, there is always a feeling of complete relaxation that only a good record can bring. I am of the mind that there is much to be appreciated by both formats, and the DAC kit 1.1 helps me to enjoy digital more than I have ever been able to.
Oz

This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:

Kimber Kable

Topic - REVIEW: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors Review by Ozzy at Audio Asylum - Ozzy 14:23:27 08/28/00 (7)

Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - John 18:13:38 08/28/00 (0)

Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - Mark M 17:15:37 08/28/00 (5)

Re: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - Ozzy 17:34:18 08/28/00 (4)

Re: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - -Steve 13:43:21 08/29/00 (0)

Re: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - Ric Schultz 18:15:30 08/28/00 (2)

Re: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - Ozzy 04:02:02 08/29/00 (1)

Re: Audio Note DAC Kit 1.1 DAC Processors - Ric Schultz 17:40:42 08/29/00 (0)

You can not post to an archived thread.