66.205.130.176
In Reply to: RE: "Much more full range sounding"? posted by goldlizsts on October 06, 2009 at 10:12:59
Ok, let me see if I can help. You ask at least 2 questions: first, tube types; second, kit v factory sound.
The tube type is easy--yes, the factory 2.1 uses 6922 and 3.1 and up uses 5687 (or other variants). There could be a connection between the tube type used and the difference in sound but I'd think that there's more of a difference due to the actual componentry differences between the higher level dacs. For one, on the factory dacs there are different interstage transformers which I believe change when you move from the 2.1 to 3.1. There are many, many other differences but this is one that is very pricey and has potential for making quite a change in sound.
As for sound itself, I owned the 2.1xSig factory for several years and liked the sound enormously. Yes, it was more limited on the extremes than the higher models and also compared to the Kit. But, it is a very dense and rich sound that is in line with what I hear from most level 1 to 3 AN gear. The Kit is a similar animal but has some different components designed for AN Kits, and they give a sound more like the higher level factory dacs in that they are more extended up and down. However, there are differences! I haven't listened side by side between my 4.1bal and the kit so I can't comment conclusively, but I'd speculate from the separate listening of each that the 4.1 retains the density of the factory 2.1 while extending up and down like the kit. Of course, this is at a cost--the 4.1 even used is about 2 times the price of the kit. New, it's...well, a lot!
The Kit dac is extraordinary value and a tremendous performer. Plus, you get the fun of building!
Follow Ups:
Post a Followup:
Top of Page ]
[ Contact Us ]
[ Support/Wish List ]
[ Copyright © 2009, Audio Asylum, all rights reserved ]
[ Go Green ]
[ Take5 ]