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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
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"
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