"Better" is subjective. I would say that "Better" should be reserved for the spec. IDA-16 has more power than IDA-8, etc.
Sound wise:
IDA-8 customers typically have entry level high-end speakers from $1K to $3K. So we designed the amp to be slightly warmer with more texture. Sure, even a $5K or $10K speakers can sound really good if you like the sonic characteristic of IDA-8. But if you play very loud in a big room, IDA-8 will not have the power or dynamic for hard to driver speakers.
We designed IDA-16 to be clean, neutral with lots of details. This suits people with high-end speakers where they want to "tune" the overall sound.
ST-10 and DAC-10H combines the best of IDA-8 and IDA-16 and take it to the next level.
Why don't we just make IDA-16 as ST-10+DAC-10H ? If we can do it within the cost, we will. We don't play the pricing game or sell some bull shit thing. It will work if we sell a $3500 IDA-20 that combines ST-10 and DAC-10H. But we are concern that the market will be too small for such a high-end integrated. At the higher price range, people want to go with components.
Hi Rusty and you guys.
I've been looking into your products, and need an advice.
The situation:
small room - might change later
Playing hi res files JRMedia
preamp/HP amp/ DAC - Audiobyte Black Dragon - 2 balanced + 2 unbalanced outputs
phono stage + phono preamp
HP - Sennheiser HD700
Loudspeakers - DALI Mentor Menuet Special Edition (Limited number with upgraded components)
So I am left with the question of amplification:
I have been considering IDA-16, IDA-8 and ST-100.
To me, the ST-100 looks like what I need so I can connect both the record player and what comes from the Black Dragon into the amp without the need for a switch.
I am also hoping extra Power does good for the tiny loudspeakers.
I am trying to get i right in a tiny room, but also building a chain of components that can be moved into a larger room - and supplied with larger speakers when the day comes.
Or would you think it wiser to og With the IDA-8/16? (It certainly wouldn't be practical...)
Would be good to hear what you think.