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In Reply to: RE: DAC 2.1B Signature or DAC 2.1C Standard? posted by MMasztal on June 23, 2009 at 19:02:27
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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