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I'm getting ready to pull the trigger and buy a DAC kit.Given the miminal $100.00 difference between the 2 components, which is better sounding unit or which would be preferable if upgrading were in the long term plan?
Thanks,
Mike
Cogito Ergo Credo
Edits: 06/29/09
If you want a transformer coupled output stage (model C), then get the best double C Core transformers money can buy from AN that fit. You will hear a dramatic difference from the capacitor coupled output stage of the model B. Otherwise, it may not be such a big difference.
It is no secret that the secret of the marvelous sound of Audio Note products are the output stage transformers in amps, prepamps, dacs. They cost an arm and a leg, but when you hear them you will feel better.
It might even be true that one can avoid the black gates, super duper resistors (i can't spell their name), and silver foil caps in their standard upgrade packages and go direct to the Vx or better wires inside and Double C Core silver nickel transformers and get 99%+ (?) of the upgrade sound, and of course the transformers will cost more.
"Live free or die"
There are many paths to audio nirvana. Experiences along my path have led me to develop sonic goals that I value, but I do not expect that others will share all of them. I share your assessment of the wonderful iron offered by Audio Note. While apparently expensive, I feel that they offer real sonic value.
OTOH, I find that parts upgrades can provide a very substantial improvement in sound quality. The Audio Note tantalum resistors and oil caps really deliver the sonic goods. I've no doubt that the upgrade from Level B to Level B Sig is a big jump in sound quality.
With respect to the upgrade options available to the OP, I would not discount the entry level EI core trannies offered in the standard Level C kit. Their design and materials quality place them at a very high quality level for what they are. They definitely provide the basic benefits of transformer coupling: remarkable dynamics and musical flow, deeper, tighter bass, greater definition and greater HF extension. I’ve no doubt that the HiB double-C core trannies sound significantly better. The wire upgrade is also well worthwhile. The trick is to keep the overall quality within the sound system balanced and generally to start system upgrades at the signal source, then to follow the signal out to the speakers.The high B trannies and upgraded wire will definitely improve the sound quality, but the full sonic benefit of their addition will not be realized until the associated parts are upgraded to a similar level (1-2w tants and copper or silver oil caps).
Regards,
Bob
I don't doubt what you say: that to realize the true potential of a transformer upgrade, you need to upgrade the other stuff. But, with a budget, I'd do the transformers first and I'm not sure I wouldn't go higher than HiB.
You're right, I don't much about the "base" level kit transformers.
"Live free or die"
Hi Mike,
I was one of the first purchaser of DAC 2.1 and move up from level A to B sig then to C.
I would recommend going to C first. Much of level B sig. parts may not be used for level C or you would need to go through same desoldering process as C uses completely different driver board.
Also there are more than one way to do parts upgrade so you are not bound by what is offered by what's offered. Parts Conenxion has 20% off sale now and if you hurry you can get upgrade parts cheaper.
Isaku
Agree with Isaku. By going with DAC2.1C you don't waste parts.
The close pricing does make for an interesting decision!
I've heard (and worked on) both, and can say each is very good. What it may come down to is what your upgrade plans are. You can see on the ANkits site that there is a B to C upgrade path, but there are also uncountable cap and component changes possible in addition.
I will say that tx costs are high and going up, so if you do plan on starting with the B, who knows what the price of output tx will be when you decide to upgrade. Just a thought...
that it may be better to get the better resistors and caps the first time out. Adding the C transformers may cost more, but probably alot easier than desoldering a bunch of caps and resistors during a rebuild.
I can't seem to locate the upgrade path/cost page on the sire.
Cogito Ergo Credo
The B to C upgrade path is on the linked page about half way down.
Your logic of going with the best caps and resistor option does make sense for the reason you state. And, the sound of the cap output version is really good so you won't feel like you are slumming if decide to stay it and not move to the tx version!
Doug,
It appears that the upgrade from Level B to Level C involves not only the addition of the output transformers, but also a new analog board based on the 5687 tube (Level B analog stage designed around the 6922 tube). The 33:1 output transformers made by Audio Note are not listed as being compatable with the 6922. Therefore, upgrading the analog board is also required.
A cost comparison of the options being discussed suggests that going directly to the Level C kit is the most cost effective and hassle-free approach.
Cost of the Level B Signature kit: $2000.
Cost to upgrade to Level C Standard: $475
Total: $2475.
Cost of the Level C Standard kit: $2100.
Total: $2100
If you plan on going to Level C Signature then the cost breakdown is as follows:
Level B Standard kit: $1700
Cost for a parts upgrade to the Level C Signature: $675.
Total Cost: $2375.
Cost of Level C Signature kit: $2400
The costs are much closer in this case, but their is more work involved going from the Level B Standard to the Level C Signature (build and install the Level B board, then take the Level B board out and install the Level C board and output transformers).
I am sure a person would WAY not be 'slumming' with the Level B Signature. It's a fine DAC in its own right.
Regards,
Bob
"analog filtering" what is it in the ordinary DAC? and how is it in the upgraded DAC?
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