Have you ever seen any DSD with preamp for those costs?
Thanks for sharing! How does it compare to your other DACs?
But are you buying features and specifications or sound quality?
Always sound quality first. That's what I'm trying to say. What you get for $100 is incredible. Maybe the benefit of the newer xmos is not as familiar here as elsewhere. I've brought it up before. They elevate performance. Instrument separation, clarity, micro details are improved. Plus they allow more flexibility with playback software like Jplay so you can squeeze out even more. It is not a minor addition.
But what's your system that you are using/comparing with? I don't see it.
Thanks for the comparisons! I appreciate that you share info on these type of products and I always read it with great interest. I agree there are some amazing bang for the buck DAC out there and it is tempting to try many.
I have lately been into raspberry pi hat DACs and am getting curious about this future and hopefully affordable ess9028q2m offering from Allo :
http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/digital-line-level/310338-dac-allo-ess9028q2m-rpi.html
Back to the Sabaj: Are you only using it with a computer and stereo amp or also for portable and or headphones?
Do you know if it would be easy to mod it to power it separately?
What about drivers - do you need special drivers for windows,linux, android?
Here are some manufacturer (so take with grain of salt) provided pictures of the internals and some measurements
http://www.sabaj.com.cn/en/productshow.asp?id=74
Hm, show me your papers eh? Been here a while but that's okay.
Here you go!
Have you tried the balanced output?
How about 44.1khz upsampled to DSD512?
Any clicks / other sounds at the end of / between tracks?
Finally (sorry for all the Qs), how long did it take to get it here in the States?
Thanks,
Jim
Thanks for the additional info. Testing all the latest is fun but I have learned that when it comes to firmware and drivers (regardless if computer audio or network related such as routers) it is often much less headache to have a little bit patience and buy when most of the bugs have been sorted out. The having patience bit is the hard part :D
That $97 Sabaj Da3 is very tempting. I don't have anything with the ESS DACs and do have a preamp with balanced inputs. If it's crap, I could do without burning a C-note, but would be fun to check out.
Hi Jim. I don't use DSD. Getting 512 playback may involve extra steps with Foobar. I'd recommend reading the Archimago post on the SMSL Idea. Someone posted this regarding DSD 512 playback:
http://archimago.blogspot.com/2017/05/measurements-smsl-idea-usb-dac.html?showComment=1496879168283#c6035919678852419577
Haven't tried the balanced output yet on the Sabaj DA3. No noises between tracks with either dac, but I use Windows. I think a couple Android users mentioned something about noises related to new firmware. The only issues I've read so far are related to Android.
Two weeks via Amazon.
The issue on the balanced front is getting a cable that'll work with that connection. Found this on ebay:
Oh, so it uses that odd mini-jack balanced output? Is that really balanced?
Where's a good place to go to see a photo of it's inputs/outputs?
Oh, so it uses that odd mini-jack balanced output? Is that really balanced?
Where's a good place to go to see a photo of it's inputs/outputs?
Oh, so it uses that odd mini-jack balanced output? Is that really balanced? . . . . . .
Hey Now,
It is probably the 4 pole 2.5mm TRRS balanced plug.
wushuliu, do you know how the volume control works? Does it cut bits or reduce voltage?
Thanks,
Jim
The SABRE9018Q2C SABRE32 Reference DAC is a high-performance 32-bit, 2-channel audio D/A converter with headphone amplifier and output switch.
The DAC turnaround cycle is nuts. Check this out::o
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=168437)
SMSL Idea: Sabre ES9018Q2C USB DAC/head amp with XMOS XU208. 32bit/768khz. Up to DSD 512.
https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-IDEA-SABRE9018Q2C-DSD512-Black/dp/B06Y1WFT4W
Cost? $86
How does it sound? Very, VERY good. Bye Bye Dragonfly Red.
I'm indifferent to Archimago, but he has a good post about it here: http://archimago.blogspot.com/2017/05/measurements-smsl-idea-usb-dac.html
Then just 2 months ago, same factory, different company releases the same DAC for $63!!!
https://www.amazon.com/Sabaj-Da2-Portable-Headphone-Amplifier/dp/B0719FMRKH
Okay, that's nuts but THEN a month ago that company releases THIS:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=168438)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073SSNMKK
DUAL ES9018 DAC with Balanced output. Cost? $97
That's. Just. Nuts.
Yes, I got the dual one. Had to. Curiosity was too much. It sounds the same as the single version, however I'm positive the noise floor is lower and the amount of inner
detail is impressive. I have a heavily modded PC and power supply chain so that helps a lot I'm sure, but this level of performance for this price is crazy. The key here IMO is the XU208. The XU208 and 216 XMOS had to be bought as a separate add-on just a year ago like the Singxer F1, etc. It raises the performance of a usb dac considerably and became very popular. A year later you can find it on a $63 DAC. Crazy.
:o
I was going to buy Dragonfly Red than I saw your post.
Any power consumption difference? I know they both use more than Dragonfly Red.I want to use it with Galaxy Note 4.
How many grams is it? I will use it mostly with se215 while walking. I will use it a 3.5mm headphone cable modded 250 DT880 pro occasionally (with a laptop). Which one do you think would be better for me? Da2 or Da3?
Massdrop SMSL Idea- $69.99
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/smsl-iDea-dac-amp
Fred,
Thanks for posting this. I've joined the drop for this. I'll see if this device will help improve my opinion of ESS-based dacs. I'm one of those who generally finds them somewhat clinical, overdamped (?), and lifeless. I prefer the sound signature of the Signstek that started off this thread.
John
ESS dacs have a signature and these dacs are no exception. So if you haven't like the ones you've heard til now, these won't change your mind.
Fred,
Thanks for posting this. I've joined the drop for this. I'll see if this device will help improve my opinion of ESS-based dacs. I'm one of those who generally finds them somewhat clinical, overdamped (?), and lifeless. I prefer the sound signature of the Signstek that started off this thread.
John
wushuliu, do you know how the volume control works? Does it cut bits or reduce voltage?Is there a way to bypass the amp section at all? Just use it as a dac?
Thanks,
Jim
Is there a way to bypass the amp section at all? Just use it as a dac?
All DACs have an amp section. There's not nearly enough voltage coming of the chip itself to drive anything.How do you like it?
I've got the volume of mine maxed out, input into my preamp.
-Jim
How do you like it?
Is there a way to bypass the amp section at all? Just use it as a dac?
Does da3 only come with usb c to usb cable?
The amp section is embedded in the sabre mobile chips. Maybe at full volume it bypasses? Good question.
I am curious to hear your impression vs the ifi micro to give a point of reference (didn't you have one for sell recently?)
ESS dacs have a signature and these dacs are no exception. So if you haven't like the ones you've heard til now, these won't change your mind.
On topic, the SMSL stuff seems to be drawing a ton of interest as of late on several forums. They have piqued my curiosity while at the same time I've been skeptical to try them given the mass of features they offer for 'Peanuts'. The iFi stuff is solid for the money.
At this point I am more invested in spending money on power supply solutions - these inexpensive dacs, like the signstek punch above their weight in my setup largely due to all the PS modifications I've done. If I had a $1000, I wouldn't spend more than half that on a retail dac and put the rest in power supply.
tried out the da3 connected to my preamp today.. it sounds great. using volume set to max to bypass digital attenuation.
Think I'll try this balanced adapter for it https://www.aliexpress.com/item/ATAUDIO-Silver-Plated-Hifi-2-5mm-TRRS-Balanced-to-2-XLR-Male-Cable-For-Astell-Kern/32822840419.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.22hiCM
doh, hopefully no hum. We'll see though, I already ordered it! I've been using the da3 as my desktop dac and it's been working flawlessly and remembers to stay at max volume when I reboot my pc so I don't have to fiddle with it. Definitely has good enough sound to be a desktop dac.
is it more likely than hum from the single ended output? where are you going to plug the 3.5mm ground into on your preamp? does it have a 3.5mm ground plug? tha'ts pretty high end.. or just like.. tape it to a chassis?
how did you get it to work trung? I have a usb a female to usb c male cable and my oneplus2 didn't recognize the da3. I'm waiting for a usb c to micro usb adapter to use with a microusb to usb a female cable
this is the cable I'm trying with my oneplus 2 that doesn't work :( https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZWN64RS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
D3 sounds awesome with Android phone (OnePlus3) :thumb:Are there any noise problems?
Gotta read those one star reviews. I never buy something with more than 8% one star unless absolutely necessary.
I have one, but it doesn't work. Reading online it seems people only got usb otg to work with their oneplus 2 using a micro usb to a female cable and then an adapter for usb c to microusb so they could use the other cable. something to do with the oneplus pinout
The problem with that cable is that it doesn't use a ground. This isn't a problem on portable devices but when you connect the Da3 to a HOME preamp...you might get a hum.
This is the type of cable I'm picking up:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Dyson-Audio-Gotham-Astell-amp-Kern-2-5mm-TRRS-Balanced-XLR-Output-Cable-1-0M-/112479651224?nma=true&si=SlgTnGTTwThh7h2M3DbuyIyR8NI%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
Uses a common ground which isn't ideal, but better than none (and shouldn't hum).
-Jim
Here's the actual one I bought:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gotham-Astell-Kern-Opus-DP-X1-2-5mm-TRRS-Balanced-XLR-Output-Cable-1-0M/112579597019?_trkparms=aid%3D777003%26algo%3DDISCL.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D47507%26meid%3D9b4af562653e434380989a6baf015471%26pid%3D100012%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D112479651224&_trksid=p2047675.c100012.m1985
Sounding great!! This is the balanced design you want.
-Jim
So you plug in both the 2.5 and the 3.5mm?
Yep. The only purposes of the 3.5mm is to grab its ground. There's no ground on that 2.5mm output.
-Jim
I got my new phone with android 7.1.1 and micro-usb and a micro-usb to usb A female otg cable and the da3 works perfectly!No issue when changing to other apps? Youtube etc? If that's true than Da3 is a true winner. Still waiting for mine as an upgrade from fiio e6.
I even have dsd working. It's definitely a big improvement in quality and loudness headroom over the built in headphone
jack.
here's a video showing it
https://youtu.be/cRS9AcaE7es
2) Any one aware of any cheap dac based on AKM chip with similar specs?
shadowlight if your desktop speakers use rca input you'll need a 3.5mm trs to dual rca cable like this http://ghentaudio.com/part/b01.html
Why?
-Jim
Thank you, I was planning to use it with AudioEngine speakers.
Two reason. One is that I have yet to listen to an AKM based implementation and other is that so far all of the ESS based DAC I have heard I have found them to be bit bright
There is no AKM equivalent of the SMSL IDEA or Sabaj DA3. SMSL does have an AKM desktop-type dac, I think it's called Sanskrit or something like that. I am not familiar with its specs.
What about his comment "all of the ESS based DAC I have heard I have found them to be bit bright".
Have others found this to be the case?
Cheers,
Lester
What about his comment "all of the ESS based DAC I have heard I have found them to be bit bright".
Have others found this to be the case?
Cheers,
Lester
Although I am partial to ESS, I have listened to plenty of other budget dacs and most importantly from a broad range of companies. In that spectrum I find ESS to be neutral/cool, but not bright. AD1955 Dacs like the Emotiva, THAT is bright and has a reputation for it. I'm not a fan. But a lot depends on implementation. The worst ESS dacs I've heard were the ODAC and Hifimediy - those were definitely bright and edgy. Otherwise, I'd say there is a reason ESS has such a big following - they hit a nice balance.
If you're partial to warm/smooth, these will not be a great fit.
Couple of questions:
1) What do I need to order for Da3 if I want to hook it up to desktop computer and speakers? I am assuming it comes standard with USB cable. Will I need anything else?
2) Any one aware of any cheap dac based on AKM chip with similar specs?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/BREEZE-AUDIO-SU0-XMOS-U8-USB-DAC-AK4490-Headphone-amp-schiit-modi-killer-/182807654428?hash=item2a902f701c:g:4DgAAOSwrFJZ1V1l
https://www.ebay.com/itm/BREEZE-AUDIO-SU0-XMOS-U8-USB-DAC-AK4490-Headphone-amp-schiit-modi-killer-/182807654428?hash=item2a902f701c:g:4DgAAOSwrFJZ1V1l
I purchased the Sabaj DA3 and received it today. Installed the ASIO drivers from Sabaj's website and able to play PCM up sampled to 768 no issues, but DSD I get nothing but static, with very faint music in the background. I am using HQPlayer on Win10 system, with unbalanced jack connected to AE 5 speakers. I tried 44.1k x 512, 48k x 512 and couple of other lower settings.
If you have DSD working can you let me know your settings.
Does the correct sample rate show up on the Sabaj and / or the driver icon in the tray?
-Jim
It sure does. I restarted everything now it is playing 256 dsd fine and at 512 I get stuttering (my pc does not have enough power to convert). Let's see what happens tomorrow when I try again.
Is the DA-3 any better sounding than the Fiio K-1?Definitely sounding better than Fiio E6 :lol:
Ok, so it sounds like the DAC is working fine.
Btw, for DSD upsampling you might want to try a different program. I've found that foo_input_sacd (in either Foobar or JRiver) sounds VERY close to HQPlayer and is super light weight in term of system resource usage.
-Jim
Thx Jim. I will look into it.
Cool - let me know if you need any help.Will do.
-Jim
andd this one?
psst, best dac I have had in my headphone system in years! No noted faults so far. Topping D30
i started looking atthese because i am hoping to get Xmox 208 and RCA outputs and also headphone output and also stay away from ESS
The Topping uses the CS4398, which I agree is a great sounding chip and deserves more love. It's got a 'lively' presence to it and an engaging midrange.
Not a fan of the OPA2134 opamps the Topping uses though. Are you able to swap them?
Master Index for Audio Hardware Reviews
https://audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/master-index-for-audio-hardware-reviews.2079/
-> Topping D30 DAC Measurement and Review
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-d30-dac-measurement-and-review.2016/
(http://maty.galeon.com/WP-imagenes/hum/opamp-CM-Impedance-Distortion.png) (http://maty.galeon.com/WP-imagenes/hum/opamp-CM-Impedance-Distortion.png)
Which one? :roll:
D30 does not have a head amp it seems. i 1st prioraity is a decent headamp with (ideally) half watt or something like that . i want to drive some planars with it. i think im done with dynamic headphones.
More:
Attached measures the buffer designed by us using different operational amplifiers:
http://www.atmstore.es/en/buffer-nc500-3/
My conclusion: do not buy Burson Audio V5
i bought V5i last year i tried it in my LKS DA003 and i sent it back for refund. i was one of the early adopters.
I also sent the returned the LKS which proved that specs mean zero.
I am not Mike but my idea was a preamp with second harmonic preminence, very low third harmonic and nothing else. With clean DAC (maybe the RME ADI-2 Pro - I love RME AD hard used to make vinyl rips). The sound profile would be given by the preamp.
Look at the graphs of this new DIY preamp by xrk971 + AKSA.
AKSA's Lender Preamp with 40Vpp Output
http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/solid-state/314563-aksas-lender-preamp-40vpp-output.html
Well it is not balanced but... the measures are so beautiful aka very clean.
Oh, you need to be logged to see the pictures. Maybe I can upload one:
[IMG] http://maty.galeon.com/WP-imagenes/hum/AKSA-Lender-Preamp-SMT-Preamp-20vpp-7kohm-47R-degen-yes-matched-6k8carbon-FB.png
As mentioned no headamp in the Topping D30. I run it into a Magni3. This Aprox $200 combo gives me more satisfaction than a Schiit Modi 4490 and Lake People GS-109 at about
3 times the price.
As for chips, my experience is they can sound similar in lower cost implementations but they are not the biggest factor in some higher priced dacs ultimate sound, but do have a role. My main speaker dac (Prism Lyra 1) also has 4398 chips but should not be lumped in the same league as the Topping.
Received my Da3 today and am wondering whether Windows Playback Advanced settings have any effect on Spotify High-Quality streaming sound. 14/44, 24/48, 32/192 etc. Whatever I set in Windows shows up on the Sabaj display but not sure if any setting is optimal or makes any difference.
Thx again wushuliu for drawing our attention to this dac.. I'm using it with an RCA adapter direct to my Folsom amp and it's a great pairing. Waiting for my sonica dac to come back after it gets modded
Bought Da3 anyways. I'm hoping for driver updates or a root android fix. Da2 and Da3 seems to have close power usage (0.8w). Will wait and see in two weeks...
How's your experience so far? How's power consumption vs DragonFly (if you had a chance to compare)?
Received my Da3 today and am wondering whether Windows Playback Advanced settings have any effect on Spotify High-Quality streaming sound. 14/44, 24/48, 32/192 etc. Whatever I set in Windows shows up on the Sabaj display but not sure if any setting is optimal or makes any difference.
Thx all for the recommendations - love this community.
Got Sinatra Christmas CD from Best Buy for $3.99 and 6 months free Tidal streaming. (expires today jump on it!)
Tidal seems to stream 16bit 44.1 CD quality which is what I will be using instead of Spotify premium. Should I stay at 16 or 24bit 44.1hz when streaming Tidal or set Windows settings higher?
Ah, I misunderstood bixby's post. Thought it did. If a headamp is important, you should just buy a separate headamp. Can start with a good old CMOY mint tin on ebay if you're cash strapped.
so it looks like that separate DAc and headamp is the way to go. i have heard CMOY and im not too excited about that prospect.
on the other hand little dot and dark voice head amps are lookiing promising. Im curuious how they would pair with planar phones
so it looks like that separate DAc and headamp is the way to go. i have heard CMOY and im not too excited about that prospect.
on the other hand little dot and dark voice head amps are lookiing promising. Im curuious how they would pair with planar phones
The es9018q2c includes the amplifier - it's an all in one package by ESS, so I am guessing voltage via the buttons. Archimago made no mention of reduced bits in his measurements. So that's another nice thing about these ESS mobile chips - you don't have to worry as much about some dodgy amp section being added since they take care of that for you...I remember well how Fiio managed to screw up the beautiful sound of Cirrus Logic CS4398 chip in X3 2nd gen model with some ugly amp section (or custom tuning maybe). Plain line out was sounding so open clear and beautiful, while HP out completely destroyed all of that by scooping mid-range, adding some excessive low freq boost and some dirty coloring to the sound. Shame really.
It's good, using it daily with note 4. Haven't tried dragonfly red but I think wushuliu knows what he is talking about. No issues whatsoever but I still want a chord mojo :lol: What you have is detail and a lot of decrease in noise. Dragonfly red and black use about half of what this uses in power consumption but is twice the price 8) (I know sabaj is 0.8W, dragonfly black uses <100ma at 5V, , I don't know about dragonfly red but people say it's same as black but I'm not so sure :oops:)How fast you battery percentage go down per average 3-4 min song? Also how fast your fully charge battery goes out of juice with nonstop listening vs regular use with no DAC attached? Some simple subjective statistics should be good enough to understand the power consumption impact of these DACs I guess. :)
Da3 uses x2 - x3 times more battery of my Note 4 so I may make a OTG cable with charging hack following here:Finding a suitable angled microUSB to microUSB OTG Y-cable with charging capabilities is a challenge on its own, but it's a must-have for long distance traveling in particular. Any idea where to get one?
https://sites.google.com/site/sonicboomworld/my-projects/otg-diagrams
How fast you battery percentage go down per average 3-4 min song? Also how fast your fully charge battery goes out of juice with nonstop listening vs regular use with no DAC attached? Some simple subjective statistics should be good enough to understand the power consumption impact of these DACs I guess. :)
Did you have a chance to compare Idea/Da2 to Da3 ? Is there any real noticeable improvement in sound?
Finding a suitable angled microUSB to microUSB OTG Y-cable with charging capabilities is a challenge on its own, but it's a must-have for long distance traveling in particular. Any idea where to get one?
I sort of compared it to normal listening (x2-x3 battery drain of da3) I will test the battery percentage out for you. Power saving helps too. Just buy a separate battery until you sort things out!
I looked around for angled micro usbs with or without usb-c's. I couldn't find any that won't ruin my note 4's micro usb socket while walking, running etc...
Long story short you have to make your own cables...
x2-x3 battery drain of da3 - that doesn't sound good at all, with Dragonfly it's just slightly more than regular usage (as I've read somewhere, not my personal experience).****************************
I'm sort of ok with soldering, but that silicon just hurts my eyes and doesn't look solid at all. :roll:
Not sure if there's a factory OTG Y cable that we need at least there's this one on amazon:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51HKLkhS2ML._SL1000_.jpg)
Product description:
High quality Original USB 2.0 Micro-B HOST OTG CABLE
It's a standard USB Micro-B HOST Cable , need your machine support usb host OTG function .
FOR : Samsung S2 i9100 S3 i9300 i9220 9250 XOOM A500 and more use.
Can use MOUSE KEYBOARD GPS USB DISK and more ......
The Micro-B plug is for OTG device.and also for Power charge.
There is Micro USB female power connector, Can charge the extral USB device , like usb flash disk, usb hard disk.
The disk format must be FAT32 if you connect the storage.
connector: USB 2.0 A female to micro 5 pin male left 90 degree angled + micro 5pin female
The question now is if it will charge the phone or just supply the DAC with power? Obviously most if not all of these Y OTG cables provide external power to an attached peripheral device (read: external HDD). Also quite few android kernels support charging in "Host mode". Hence I'm not very optimistic about it all honestly. :?
Note 4 from fully charged:Thanks! It's almost the same level of consumption with or without Da3 attached (if i'm reading it right) which is weird. I guess you're using ViperFX at max quality, hence such a fast battery discharge.
Koss porta pro + airplane mode + power-saving + viper4android force mode
30 minute (5-minute repeats) full volume listening: 98% (very close to 99%)
Note 4 battery averages:
Koss porta pro + airplane mode + power-saving + viper4android force mode + sabaj da3:
30 minute (5-minute repeats) equal volume listening: 93%
I think it definitely worth it but I always choose quality over quantity :D I had 0 driver issues with da3 you should consider the possibility of that too with other Chinese versions.
Try that cable but I doubt it will work. I tried not that one but very similar ones that just powered da3 or just charged and no otg.Yes, that's what it is. All of Y OTG cables are designed to provide external power to an attached peripheral device, not the host.
Thanks! It's almost the same level of consumption with or without Da3 attached (if i'm reading it right) which is weird. I guess you're using ViperFX at max quality, hence such a fast battery discharge.
Yes, that's what it is. All of Y OTG cables are designed to provide external power to an attached peripheral device, not the host.
Meanwhile for Samsung phones there's SMARTDOCK mode (https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3/general/hw-mod-usb-otg-charging-galaxy-s3-t1953061) that enables a Host mode + charging at around 900mA at the same time! Samsung Multimedia Dock (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WEQD2C6) is one of such devices proving that possibility. Also it's been proved to work with Note 4 and external DAC (https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=61733021&postcount=17)!
Maybe there's an OTG cable out there based on the same logic for Samsung phones that needs to be found or made... :wink:
No. Without Da3 charge went down 100% to 98% in 30 minutes. With Da3 charge went down 100% to 93% in 30 minutes! :(Oh, yes, I've read it wrong. Well, not too bad still. Thank you! :thumb:
Let's see if resistor hack works :D It plays with that host mode (4th pin). For silicone aesthatics you can use heat shrink: https://ibb.co/fhpvUbBest of luck with that hack, just don't burn your phone's motherboard, please! :roll: Also check the info about SMARTDOCK mode, I've provided in my previous post. It's a guaranteed to work option since it's official by Samsung, hence no hardware or software/kernel limitations.
Alright, Da2 works almost flawlessly with my old Samsung Note 3 (Snapdragon 800) (https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note_3-5665.php) running a slightly modified stock Samsung ROM (https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-3/development/rom-qs-n9005-lp-t3037655) (Android 5.0). No noise, no glitches, all fine with the stock player and all others.If you cant return it and don't want to open it... Black Silicone it! (other colors get dirty very quickly) There is no other reliable way that I know of. With Note 4 Android 6 Sabaj Da3:
Here are some impressions about the ones with their own drivers:
Onkyo HF Player (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.onkyo.jp.musicplayer) - fast and stable, has a real-time PCM to native DSD512 convertor! No cue support, no gapless, no network features.
Neutron (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.neutroncode.mp) - supports almost all formats and network options, plays files with embedded cue, has gapless playback, no PCM to DSD conversion.
USB Audio Player PRO (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.extreamsd.usbaudioplayerpro) - works fine, but cannot fastseek 192kHz tracks for some reason, has network options, no PCM to DSD conversion.
Poweramp (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.maxmpz.audioplayer) - not bitperfect, always re-samples, way too much glitching, no network options.
HibyMusic (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hiby.music) - no sound, just endless clicking.
A bit more about the features and sound:
- this tiny DAC accepts native DSD stream (non-DoP) up to DSD512
- sounds beautiful in DSD mode, adds some kind of magical 3D effect and glow to the music
- comparing to laptop & smartphone - a major upgrade, comparing to the old Cowon iAudio7 (https://www.cnet.com/products/cowon-iaudio-7/review/) Wolfson WM8731L chip (https://www.rockbox.org/wiki/pub/Main/DataSheets/WM8731_8731L.pdf) - not that much but still an upgrade especially in DSD mode + all HiRes possibilities and output power.
- ESS SABRE (http://www.esstech.com/index.php/en/products/sabre-digital-analog-converters/sabre-hifi-mobile-dacs/sabre-hifi-stereo-integrated-dacs/sabre9018q2c/) is one punchy beast! The sound is strait to your ears/face and it's razor sharp when it comes to details - every sound is very well defined and clear.
- this is not a warm-sounding DAC, be warned, but rather very well balanced. Wolfson WM8731L is quite midrangeee in comparison, hence a bit more open sounding and a bit warmer and less punchy, less extreme highs and lows.
The bad:
- the unit warms up quite well but nothing extreme here.
- switching from max resolution 768kHz to anything lower will produce nothing but clicking until re-plug. Might be foobar-related gotta check with JRiver (https://www.jriver.com/).
- supplied cables are very cheap and seem non-durable.
The worst:
- my unit has a hardware issue with the microUSB port. It gets disconnected easily by any slight movement. Hence not usable on the go and probably will die very soon. I've tried several USB cables to make sure it's a socket problem. Gotta return/replace it. Donno if I shall get Da3 instead, any suggestions anyone?
da3 uses usb-c port so you might like that. it works fine with usb otb with my moto gs5 plus with android 7 and neutron
Donno if I shall get Da3 instead, any suggestions anyone?
.... there are some helpful tips in the comment section of Archimago's SMSL Idea review.Please for a link for us who are not following. :(
Please for a link for us who are not following. :(
The link is in the very first post of this thread :wink:Ohh, I seeee :duh:
da3 uses usb-c port so you might like that. it works fine with usb otb with my moto gs5 plus with android 7 and neutronDa2 should be fine as well. I'm just being unlucky with a bad quality control of my unit...
If you cant return it and don't want to open it... Black Silicone it! (other colors get dirty very quickly) There is no other reliable way that I know of.I can return/replace it (amazon prime). I will try to open it up to check what's inside... But I have to do something asap because the USB-issue affects my experience with the unit quite badly.
With Note 4 Android 6 Sabaj Da3:Good!
Onkyo HF Player - works fine
Neutron - no problem :D
USB Audio Player PRO - fine, can fast track 352.8k dsd, I have no idea to pcm to Dsd convert :D
Poweramp - re-samples, no glitches
HibyMusic - works, downsamples (or up) to 192khz
Da3 can also have the port issue if your usb-C doesn't click. My micro usb to usb-c clicks but my usb to usb-c doesn't clicks into it:In my case the port just not soldered well I guess or way too loose.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=172435)
Thank you for the detailed feedback on the portables. VERY helpful. I do have a spare unopened new in box DA3 if you want one.Thanks! I'm not sure if I really want one. I love how small Da2 is. Not sure if Da3 can prove its superiority in sound quality to justify the switch and additional 50% of Da2 price (I don't need the balance output).
Da2 should be fine as well. I'm just being unlucky with a bad quality control of my unit...Usb Audio Player PRO - Fast seeking 192kHz 24 bit works fine
I can return/replace it (amazon prime). I will try to open it up to check what's inside... But I have to do something asap because the USB-issue affects my experience with the unit quite badly.Good!
In Onkyo check the DSD512 conversion/upscaling - no need to thank me... ;)
USB Audio Player PRO - try fastseeking any 192kHz 24 bit tracks and report pls.
Neutron - optimal choice indeed, but no upscaling/PCM2DSD
Poweramp - use the latest beta with HD support (http://forum.powerampapp.com/topic/8810-poweramp-alpha-build-703704/) and report.
HibyMusic - couldn't make it play a thing.In my case the port just not soldered well I guess or way too loose.Thanks! I'm not sure if I really want one. I love how small Da2 is. Not sure if Da3 can prove its superiority in sound quality to justify the switch and additional 50% of Da2 price (I don't need the balance output).
Also please share your experience based on these questions (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=152638.msg1647810#msg1647810)? Thanks.
****************************
Note 4 from fully charged:
Koss porta pro + airplane mode + power-saving + viper4android force mode
30 minute (5-minute repeats) full volume listening: 98% (very close to 99%)
Koss porta pro + airplane mode + power-saving + viper4android force mode + sabaj da3:
30 minute (5-minute repeats) equal volume listening: 93%
****************************
I think it definitely worth it but I always choose quality over quantity :D I had 0 driver issues with da3 you should consider the possibility of that too with other Chinese versions.
You can use black silicone for aesthetics or top it with cable heat shrink and cut unnecessary parts.
Try that cable but I doubt it will work. I tried not that one but very similar ones that just powered da3 or just charged wi otg.
I will probably plug one of these for power when I have to... to my soon-to-be cable :D :
(https://is.alicdn.com/img/pb/449/535/640/640535449_822.jpg)
Also you can buy thicker but bigger capacity battery for your cellphone that comes with its own cover.
Thank you for your suggestion.
Now I post my result.
SABJA DA3 + Shanling M1 + TMB4K + SE-MHR5(2.5mm BALANCED)
50g + 60g + 100g
After 3hr start to play, M1 bat indicator is still full.
>>How's SE-MHR5 with Da3 balanced VS unbalanced? Is it possible for you to compare?
Sorry, SE-MHR5 contains 2.5mm balanced cable only.
Comparing with SE-MS7BT (Balanced), I think that the resolution clearly exceeds (Personal opinion to the last.)
>>Why would you use Da3 with M1?
Although M1 can play only up to DSD 128 by itself, but it can outputs DSD 256,512(Amazing!!!) without difficulty to the outside from USB.(FW4.1)
>>Is it so noticeably better than AK4452+MAX97220 of M1?
I think that there is an effect of balance connection and it will not be comparable.(Personal opinion to the last, too.)
>>Why would you use Da3 with M1?M1 converts DSD stream to PCM to play but that makes no sense because with Delta-Sigma type of DAC like M1 has it's gonna convert DSD to PCM by software and then DAC chip will convert PCM to DSD to play because it's a native mode for any Delta-Sigma DAC. 8) Da2/Da3 are capable of playing native DSD stream up to DSD512 and actually do sound better in DSD mode, give it a try... ;)
Although M1 can play only up to DSD 128 by itself, but it can outputs DSD 256,512(Amazing!!!) without difficulty to the outside from USB.(FW4.1)
>>Is it so noticeably better than AK4452+MAX97220 of M1?Never had a chance to try and compare a balanced set of HPs myself but have read that it's not really dramatic or at least should not be night and day difference. Some other say it's a vast improvement - go figure...
I think that there is an effect of balance connection and it will not be comparable.(Personal opinion to the last, too.)
On the other hand, Shanling says in the release notes of FW 4.1 as follows.
"2. Added the DSD native digital output mode."
Does this mean that it is a pseudo NATIVE DSD due to the characteristics of the pointed DAC chip?
I do not know when it will be answered but I tried throwing a confirmation to VENDOR as well.
My topping D30 has a defect. We'll see how well the ebay seller stands behind this product.
I received a modified version of daphile and can confirm daphile WILL support native dsd512. The sound is incredible for the price but you need a good CPU. I use an i3 8100. Hopefully the daphile update will be included in the next beta.
Is it possible to x3 da3 for 5.1 system? or am I just silly? :lol:How will you split a digital USB signal into 3 parts??? :shake:
How will you split a digital USB signal into 3 parts??? :shake:¯\_(ツ)_/¯
My topping D30 has a defect.
When presented with low rumbling bass it distorts badly like an amp clipping. It is repeatable and amp, headphones, speakers have been ruled out. It is not a particularly loud passage so hard to believe a 0db event or an over.
For the record the input is usb using asio. We'll see how well the ebay seller stands behind this product.
EDIT 12-20 ebay seller is cybereveryday. Advertised the dac as being USA stock shipping from Los Angeles. Now to return the item wants me to pre-pay shipping to CHINA. Still working on a refund.
SMSL released an "answer" to Sabaj's Da3 - dual Sabre DAC with balanced HP output and a built-in battery - SMSL IQ (http://www.smsl-audio.com/productshow.asp?id=142)....
Happy New Year!
SMSL released an "answer" to Sabaj's Da3 - dual Sabre DAC with balanced HP output and a built-in battery - SMSL IQ (http://www.smsl-audio.com/productshow.asp?id=142)
Currently available for $139.99 @ amazon.com (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078Q5Y3YH)
Also there's a new windows driver for XMOS based devices - 4.38.0 (http://www.smsl-audio.com/Upload/download/20171228140523307.zip)
Happy New Year!
Wow, it seems to be exactly the Sabaj! I'd probably just get that one...and save $40.The Sabaj has 2 sabre chips; the smsl has built in battery. Will be interesting to see a comparison.
-Jim
The Sabaj has 2 sabre chips; the smsl has built in battery. Will be interesting to see a comparison.
Wow, it seems to be exactly the Sabaj! I'd probably just get that one...and save $40.Not exactly. Sabaj Da3 has no battery and has a different body-shape. + IQ has selectable transmission mode (USB 1.1 or USB 2.0) (http://www.smsl-audio.com/Upload/download/20171228135540110.pdf) which should help to avoid Android/Linux issues at a cost of high sample rates that USB1.1 cannot handle.
The Sabaj has 2 sabre chips; the smsl has built in battery. Will be interesting to see a comparison.Both have 2 Sabre chips. It's not stated in SMSL IQ's specs for some reason but can be seen on a board pic.
The SMSL IQ looks to have less power on the headamp, however it does have selectable DSD filters. I don't think the DA3 has that.Indeed on a paper Da3 seem more powerful than IQ which is strange since SABRE9018Q2C is a DAC+Amp solution which should lead to the same output characteristics in both cases. Da3 has selectable DSD filters as well, not sure if these are similar to IQ though + IQ has PCM filters.
Can't seem to find any info on battery life. Otherwise looks like the same design as the DA3, but with better portability. Looks like they read the feedback on the DA3.We all would like to know the exact type, capacity, etc about the built-in battery... Unfortunately no info available at this moment. To me SMSL IQ looks like a more well thought out solution for portable use, primarily because of the battery and also the ability to easily switch between USB1.1 and USB2.0
Wonder what the difference is with the new XMOS driver vs 4.11.Seem like it has a better auto buffer management in ASIO mode. Also the control panel is a bit more informative but nothing dramatic.
Could someone please explain with links to the identified components how to add an external linear power supply to suppott the da3. Also confirm that the increase in sound quality justifies the investment."iDefender3.0 USB Ground Loop Eliminator" seems to be the wisest and easiest way to power it. If you think it as a big investment I think you should just wait and buy a chord mojo. I don't think you can confirm it without trying it yourself, you might find it a little bit bright. Using it with Shure se846 with red knowles filters and loving it.
"iDefender3.0 USB Ground Loop Eliminator" seems to be the wisest and easiest way to power it. If you think it as a big investment I think you should just wait and buy a chord mojo. I don't think you can confirm it without trying it yourself, you might find it a little bit bright. Using it with Shure se846 with red knowles filters and loving it.
"iDefender3.0 USB Ground Loop Eliminator" seems to be the wisest and easiest way to power it. If you think it as a big investment I think you should just wait and buy a chord mojo. I don't think you can confirm it without trying it yourself, you might find it a little bit bright. Using it with Shure se846 with red knowles filters and loving it.
"iDefender3.0 USB Ground Loop Eliminator" seems to be the wisest and easiest way to power it. If you think it as a big investment I think you should just wait and buy a chord mojo. I don't think you can confirm it without trying it yourself, you might find it a little bit bright. Using it with Shure se846 with red knowles filters and loving it.
Hopefully the combination of the idefender, ipower and sabaj da3 with DSD512 will not be far off the Mojo DSD256 at 40% of the cost..
Wow, it seems to be exactly the Sabaj! I'd probably just get that one...and save $40.I've just received. actual weight is 80g. USB is microUSB(not type-c).
-Jim
Even if an amateur like me, the sound quality is higher than sabaj da3.What files did you compare?
(At least the built-in power supply did not adversely affect.)
What files did you compare?Yes, some DSD64,128. 256 pop and classical package, and upconverted DSD512.
Did you compare some DSD files?
Even if an amateur like me, the sound quality is higher than sabaj da3.
(At least the built-in power supply did not adversely affect.)
Don't get too comfortable with that new SMSL. Look what's within striking distance of that price:Wow, excellent!!(I missed new NX4 information). I agree you opinion exactly.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/TOPPING-Takumi-NX4-DSD-fever-HiFi-portable-decoding-amp-ES9038-USB-DAC/272972594580?hash (https://www.ebay.com/itm/TOPPING-Takumi-NX4-DSD-fever-HiFi-portable-decoding-amp-ES9038-USB-DAC/272972594580?hash)
even cheaper here:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Upgrade-Version-Topping-NX4-DSD512-ES9038Q2M-XMOS-XU208-chip-Portable-USB-DAC-Decoder-32bit-768kHZ-Headphone/32843177203.html?ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_3_10152_10151_10065_10130_10068_10344_10324_10547_10342_10325_10546_10343_10340_10548_10341_10545_10084_10083_10307_10059_10314_10534_100031_10604_10103_10142,searchweb201603_40,ppcSwitch_5&algo_expid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487-0&algo_pvid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487&transAbTest=ae803_4&priceBeautifyAB=0 (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Upgrade-Version-Topping-NX4-DSD512-ES9038Q2M-XMOS-XU208-chip-Portable-USB-DAC-Decoder-32bit-768kHZ-Headphone/32843177203.html?ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_3_10152_10151_10065_10130_10068_10344_10324_10547_10342_10325_10546_10343_10340_10548_10341_10545_10084_10083_10307_10059_10314_10534_100031_10604_10103_10142,searchweb201603_40,ppcSwitch_5&algo_expid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487-0&algo_pvid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487&transAbTest=ae803_4&priceBeautifyAB=0)
Like I said earlier, the upgrade cycle on DACs is now 6mo. or less. I'll wait another cycle then maybe get one of these es9038s once the price comes down.
Wushuliu
Back on page 7 or so. You mentioned this was on your headphone rig and you planned on setting it up on your 2 channel rig I believe. Did you get this done and do you have any thoughts on it?
Does anyone have any experience with this on a mac mini or similar? Something other then PC or phone/tablet? Any reason to believe why it would give me an issue on my Mac?
I see there is a balanced XLR https://www.ebay.com/itm/Gotham-Astell-Kern-Opus-DP-X1-2-5mm-TRRS-Balanced-XLR-Output-Cable-1-0M/112579597019?hash=item1a364452db:g:A3UAAOSwM6ZZy6Qs
I couldn't find something similar for an RCA. Would it matter if I just used a 3.5mm to rca connector to my preamp?
Thanks all
Wushuliu
Back on page 7 or so. You mentioned this was on your headphone rig and you planned on setting it up on your 2 channel rig I believe. Did you get this done and do you have any thoughts on it?
Does anyone have any experience with this on a mac mini or similar? Something other then PC or phone/tablet? Any reason to believe why it would give me an issue on my Mac?
I see there is a balanced XLR https://www.ebay.com/itm/Gotham-Astell-Kern-Opus-DP-X1-2-5mm-TRRS-Balanced-XLR-Output-Cable-1-0M/112579597019?hash=item1a364452db:g:A3UAAOSwM6ZZy6Qs
I couldn't find something similar for an RCA. Would it matter if I just used a 3.5mm to rca connector to my preamp?
Thanks all
On a mac mini, isn't your headphone out also an optical out? You could run a Toslink to 3.5 cable like this? https://www.amazon.com/FosPower-Toslink-Digital-Connectors-Strain-Relief/dp/B00T8HWUVS/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_23_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=NH7HG9WXVDK5G74V4BTF
Don't get too comfortable with that new SMSL. Look what's within striking distance of that price: click (https://www.ebay.com/itm/TOPPING-Takumi-NX4-DSD-fever-HiFi-portable-decoding-amp-ES9038-USB-DAC/272972594580?hash)
even cheaper here: click (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Upgrade-Version-Topping-NX4-DSD512-ES9038Q2M-XMOS-XU208-chip-Portable-USB-DAC-Decoder-32bit-768kHZ-Headphone/32843177203.html?ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_3_10152_10151_10065_10130_10068_10344_10324_10547_10342_10325_10546_10343_10340_10548_10341_10545_10084_10083_10307_10059_10314_10534_100031_10604_10103_10142,searchweb201603_40,ppcSwitch_5&algo_expid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487-0&algo_pvid=a0fa8564-3f04-4c4d-9638-5cf774dda487&transAbTest=ae803_4&priceBeautifyAB=0)
Like I said earlier, the upgrade cycle on DACs is now 6mo. or less. I'll wait another cycle then maybe get one of these es9038s once the price comes down.
Even if an amateur like me, the sound quality is higher than sabaj da3.SQ shouldn't be really higher than Da3, considering SABRE9018Q2C is an integrated solution (DAC with Headphone Amplifier & Output Switch) which should lead to almost identical SQ in both IQ and Da3 and be quite similar to Da2/idea as well.
(At least the built-in power supply did not adversely affect.)
Yes the DA3 excels on 2 channel out of my main speakers. I think that's how you have to really appreciate its performance. It's sound quality is kind of wasted on portable use (IMO). I think some people have had issues with Mac and DSD playback. Non-PC DSD playback seems to work fine for some and not others.I agree that Da3 is not exactly meant for portable on-the-go use, since it's power-hungry and has no battery. It's more like a very compact desktop DAC that you can take along with a laptop on a trip. Da2/idea is a more logical choice for portable use even though it's also quite power-hungry...
I don't know if anyone has heard a dac with the 5242 chip in it but I have one made by Iquadio fastened to my Pi3 and it leaves the Sabaj Da2 in the mire for overall musicality, detail and soundstage.
This DAC does not support DSD files. :(
you mean this?
http://iqaudio.co.uk/hats/47-pi-dac-pro.html
If that's what he means then it's an apples to oranges comparison since the Sabaj/SMSL are usb dacs, not Pi-attacheable dacs. The RPi dac *should* sound better in that application since it's specifically designed to be attached directly to the RPi and uses i2s for data, etc.
you mean this?
http://iqaudio.co.uk/hats/47-pi-dac-pro.html
We are not talking about USB output on RPi3, but about USB connectivity to PC or MAC. :?
But is it bad? I thought someone called Archimango had tested the output and found no problems with noise on it?
I could be wrong but I'm pretty sure that was the outcome.
There are also folks on this forum who feed some pretty expensive dac's from their Pi usb port.
[quote it is the best RPi based solution bar none.
This guy begs to differ http://www.dimdim.gr/2017/03/mamboberry-ls-dac-vs-boss-dac-vs-piano-2-1-hi-fi-dac-with-and-without-kali-fifo-reclocker/ (http://www.dimdim.gr/2017/03/mamboberry-ls-dac-vs-boss-dac-vs-piano-2-1-hi-fi-dac-with-and-without-kali-fifo-reclocker/)
tbh I'm not in a position to buy and compare the items so I have to stay with what I have, which I'm very happy with.
I used the Sabaj Da2 via usb on Pi3 and laptop through Fbar2K and I still didn't like it. Too shrill, splashy and lacking in texture for my tastes to the extent that I got no pleasure form music. Plug the old Muse pcm2704 in and the feet started tapping again, just as they do with the Iqaudio I have now.
One mans meat etc
Hopefully the combination of the idefender, ipower and sabaj da3 with DSD512 will not be far off the Mojo DSD256 at 40% of the cost..
A friendly salute to Down Under...
I believe the 'bedding in' grace period is up for the iPower / iDefender / Sabaj3; can you share any comments, please...? I'd like to join the poor man' s Mojo DAC substitute club :)
The Sabaj DA3 is incredible value. I upgraded my CPU from a G4560 to an i7 7700 using a broken offering off ebay (mem channel A not working, cost $169) and upsample to native DSD512 using Daphile. As stated earlier I also use the ifi iPower and iDefender. The sound is almost on a par with my Gustard X20u. It even upsamples DSD128 and DSD256 to DSD512 with no noticeable distortion (the G4560 could only manage DSD128).
The Sabaj DA3 is incredible value. I upgraded my CPU from a G4560 to an i7 7700 using a broken offering off ebay (mem channel A not working, cost $169) and upsample to native DSD512 using Daphile. As stated earlier I also use the ifi iPower and iDefender. The sound is almost on a par with my Gustard X20u. It even upsamples DSD128 and DSD256 to DSD512 with no noticeable distortion (the G4560 could only manage DSD128).
i just bought one sabaj DA3 for 90 bucks. i was originally leaning towards Topping NX4 (not the DSD) but i ended up with this one for $90. im also ordering a Audio-gd R2R 11 which is gonna end up being 400 bucks including shipping and what not.
this (sabaj and audio gd) will be my dive into chin-fi and also into hopefully finding a good replacement for delta sigma dacs as far as my main rig is concerned. if this R2R delivers it would be good riddance.
edit: actually it would be my second dive. sinve i already had the $1200 dual ESS Sabre 9018 with extensive op amp upgrades that i hated on the account of sounding crap. hopefully this time im not gonna be disappointed.
I only just learned about the audiogd R2R. People seem to love it. If I'd have known about it sooner I would have bought one. They make great gear. And the price is the cheapest of the r2r dacs on the market.
JUST for the sake of comparison and for good measure i bought one of these too:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FEDHHKE/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
im planning to buy an he400s to compare as well. even though if i find a real good deal (around the same price) i might just get a used B&W p7 wired because will definitely use it more than any HE400 or HD650 being closed an all. they also look real good as well.
Please share your comparison with da3 if you can! :) You might try sonarworks or morphit for reference eq for headphones, it makes a great difference!
if there is a free plug in for foobar ill give it a try. im not paying for those just now because ive never tried one. is there a trial version?
No plugin for foobar but standalone for sonarworks and vst trials for both:
Morphit: https://www.toneboosters.com/download.html
Sonarworks: https://www.sonarworks.com/reference/downloads/win
Sonarworks has speaker calibration that is swell too but it needs a calibration microphone :|
i quickly preferred the slow roll off filter
Get the ifi ipower and idefender. Also try DSD upsampling - no brainer using linux based daphile (make sure you use the latest beta) which you can temporarily load from a USB stick without compromising your windows install and no need to install Sabaj drivers. Create the USB boot using Rufus and daphile beta iso downloaded from http://www.daphile.com/firmware/private-beta/
i will. i have an Rpi 3b ready for daphile.
Daphile does not run on the RPI. You need a good Intel or amd cpu to support the up sampling. I was so impressed with the sabaj that I bought an i7 7700 for dsd512 and was amazed with the result. A cheaper g4560 will do dsd256.
based on the innerfidelity measured response as well as subjective review it sounds like something is amiss. Measurements show it should be on the boomy bass side of things. Definitely not thin.
No, the signstek headphone out is not as impressive as line out to 2 channel.
Sealed headphone measurements can be very sensitive to.. well, seal. Measurement differences can be dramatic.
Why are we talking about headphones, out of the blue? Did someone post in the wrong circle? This is the Cheap and Cheerful circle and the thread is about DACs for peanuts.
https://hifimediy.com/uda38pro-usb-dac-es9038pro
ES9038PRO + SA9227 for $249. Looks decent. So who is going to bite the bullet?
I also bought a monoprice 3.5 mm to male RCa cable for 4.5 bucks off ebay, but ill be on the look put for a proper (thick and heavy lol) cable (length 1 to 3 feet) preferably OCC for under 35 bucks. i dont feel like taking a chance on chin fi so if anyone has 1st hand experience with real quality cables from Chinese suppliers please let me know. other than case that i find an amazing pure copper with good connector cable for cheap i will stick with the monoprice.
The Monoprice may be steel like the simple cable 3.5 to 3.5 I bought for the car. Piece o crap. Yet some of their stuff is really good.
I have a Belkin Gold in 6 foot length that sound pretty nice. You could have that for about $10 plus ship. I ordered an Audio Sensiblity cable for about $100 I believe that sounded really good, but sold it when I sold my Mojo.
Personally, I would go with a well made cable from one of the pro audio houses. should not be a whole lot more than $35.
Sorry it was entirely my bad.
Audio-gd R2R 11 is coming. im so excited about doing a comparison between Chord Hugo, Sabaj DA3, R2R-2, and schiit bimby (DAC only). ill do that as soon as it has over 100 hours on it.
it is very timely because i have a bunch of good value headphones in my possession. from Senn HD650 to hifiman HE400, to Modded fostex T50RP to monolith planars in addition to my stereo.
do you think sabaj da3 it is a contender to chord hugo? :o because I had my eyes on a chord mojo for a longtime which is a step down from hugo.
any new finds that sound better so similar to sabaj DA3?I couldn't find one yet. Instead I bought ifi isilencer3.0 for my sabaj da3 galaxy Note 4 combo. Great difference, much more detail (%20 or more detail if I have to give a number) that I thought I couldn't have with da3. Absolutely give it a try.
I've gotten the idefender+ipower couple lately to power the DA3. If I had to describe the changes I would say the sound gets clearer, more natural and dynamic. The stereophony becomes larger, gets way deeper, the instruments don't overlay each other anymore in the depth. The sound from the DA3 was already really good by itself. The couple just improves it further. At the price point of the DA3 I dunno if it's worth it though, it doubles its price. Still I'm glad I invested in it knowing I will use it every time I get a new usb DAC (if it doesn't die on me :lol:).:o Exactly my thoughts but with isilencer3.0. I need to figure out to make idefender work portable before I buy one (maybe isilencer the powerbank? :))
This is a very interesting device indeed! With a flagship mobile ES9038Q2M DAC, battery, etc... But is it a major upgrade or even a different league comparing to SMSL IQ or Sabaj Da3 ? Technically on paper (http://bbs.hifidiy.net/thread-1257220-1-1.html) for sure it is but how different is it in real life in that particular device?
What's the amp chip used in Topping NX4 DSD? Is it the same OPA1642+LMH6643 combo found in the original NX4 or a different set?
Using SABRE9602 amp will make 9038Q2M sound very close if not identical to 9018Q2C. Using TI's stuff like OPA1622 will make it sound different I guess, maybe even better.
EDIT: Ok, it's OPA2140-based, no additional info though.
hard to know but it's able to run just as amp as well, which could be useful at times (e.g. on a plane).
It has a line out which (I assume) bypasses the headphone amp.
Like I need another DAC/amp, but still....
PS. Here's the manufacturer's page: http://tpdz.net/en/products/nx4dsd/index.htm
PPS. Also available now via amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Headphone-Amplifier-Topping-XMOS-XU208-ES9038Q2M/dp/B07B4XZC37/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1521730881&sr=8-2&keywords=topping%2Bnx4%2Bdsd&th=1)
I've gotten the idefender+ipower couple lately to power the DA3. If I had to describe the changes I would say the sound gets clearer, more natural and dynamic. The stereophony becomes larger, gets way deeper, the instruments don't overlay each other anymore in the depth. The sound from the DA3 was already really good by itself. The couple just improves it further. At the price point of the DA3 I dunno if it's worth it though, it doubles its price. Still I'm glad I invested in it knowing I will use it every time I get a new usb DAC (if it doesn't die on me :lol:).
It seems no-one's got the NX4 (DSD) yet, anyway I just ordered one so will report back. I'm assuming (hoping) that being battery powered it will work from my iPhone/iPad. Plus with the line in it can be used in planes etc. We'll see.
:thumb:
Investing in the cleanest power supply you can manage outweighs the value of the dac. This Lipo4(?)/LT3045 battery option showed up recently. I don't see the iPower competing with it, especially for the cost.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LT3045-Battery-Regulated-Power-Supply-5V/273135946356?hash=item3f982bca74:g:vFIAAOSweq5av1nP
If you have the skills and want to really take your dac to a new level, replace the iPower with not one, but *two* LT3045 low noise regulators in series. I have a 6v board that feeds a 5v board. I can't overstate the impact. Floored me.
Awesome!
Looks like they put it on the slowest boat they could find :lol: Anyway I'll update when it arrives.
Investing in the cleanest power supply you can manage outweighs the value of the dac. This Lipo4(?)/LT3045 battery option showed up recently. I don't see the iPower competing with it, especially for the cost.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LT3045-Battery-Regulated-Power-Supply-5V/273135946356?hash=item3f982bca74:g:vFIAAOSweq5av1nP
If you have the skills and want to really take your dac to a new level, replace the iPower with not one, but *two* LT3045 low noise regulators in series. I have a 6v board that feeds a 5v board. I can't overstate the impact. Floored me.
In difficult choice between Sabaj Da2 / Sabaj Da3. But anyway I'm not going to use balanced headphones or headphones with impedance higher than 100-150 (now using 32-70). Question: Is there any other reason to buy Sabaj Da3 instead of Sabaj Da2? Is there any big difference in sound, other then balanced output, and ability to power higher impedance headphones?
how about using isilencer after ipower to feed the dac?
Also will usb 5v board that feed 5v board work for usb dacs?
? Not sure what you are referring to.
I'm thinking of doing a usb to usb with two 5V 1A LT3045 dongle for sabaj and for my other other usb only dacs.
Investing in the cleanest power supply you can manage outweighs the value of the dac. This Lipo4(?)/LT3045 battery option showed up recently. I don't see the iPower competing with it, especially for the cost.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LT3045-Battery-Regulated-Power-Supply-5V/273135946356?hash=item3f982bca74:g:vFIAAOSweq5av1nP
If you have the skills and want to really take your dac to a new level, replace the iPower with not one, but *two* LT3045 low noise regulators in series. I have a 6v board that feeds a 5v board. I can't overstate the impact. Floored me.
Looks like they put it on the slowest boat they could find :lol: Anyway I'll update when it arrives.
You mean powered externally from like an idefender? What is the power source? You need at least 5.5v source to the LT to get 5v out to a dac.
Duo you have the da3 to compare it with?
No (?)
The NX4 should work with my iphone but I don't think the DA3 will (current).
this is the weirdest one i have seen so far. i mean i know for sure, that USB decoder chip can not support hi rez
this is the weirdest one i have seen so far. i mean i know for sure, that USB decoder chip can not support hi rez
I decided to pick up a DA3 for my desktop setup (HD6XX.) Obviously, the DA3 is a bit underpowered for them -- what's the best way to use this as a DAC running into an amp? Full volume, or drop it a bit? This doesn't seem to put out a lot of power, so I'm thinking max volume is the best to simulate an aux out type of thing.
Thoughts?
For SennHDs I would recommend getting an external amp as well. The DA3 can drive your phones, but they won't sound their best.
Oh, I've got it plugged into an Aune X7S (magical) but am wondering if I should set the DA3 to max volume (currently doing so, without noticeable degradation)
Hey guys , help me please
i wanna buy sabaj da 3 or smsl iq for using it with
oneplus5t + sony xba n1ap only
which one should i use ? cuz idk about android working good with thoses and my hp
Sabaj da 3 works fine but drinks battery. Go for smsl iq. Also buy an isilencer :)
Has anyone modified the Sabaj Da3? If yes, what were the modification and how did the sound change? Is there a way to disable the filter? I want to try the DAC with HQPlayer and would like to disable the filter on the DAC and leverage the HQP filters.
Hello all, was interested in the SMSL IDEA/Sabaj DA2, but I recently came across this:
https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a1z10.3-c.w4002-15493940501.70.763e1cfaRvjmOk&id=568408593852
(https://i.imgur.com/P9zyjuL.jpg)
Weiliang/Breeze Audio SE4 USB DAC ES9028 with SA9226 USB chip
Based on the specs, could it be even better and somehow much, much cheaper?
I'm already a very satisfied user of the Sabaj DA3 (helped brilliantly by an iDefender) but, at the spur of the moment, I've ordered a Weiland Audio SE4 DAC from here:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Finished-SE4-PC-Phone-USB-Decoder-SA9226-ES9028Q2M-Audio-DAC-Support-DSD-New/273266457017?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Finished-SE4-PC-Phone-USB-Decoder-SA9226-ES9028Q2M-Audio-DAC-Support-DSD-New/273266457017?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649)
I'll share the listening experience as soon as possible... currently waiting patiently for the arrival of the package dispatched from the Far East...
Investing in the cleanest power supply you can manage outweighs the value of the dac. This Lipo4(?)/LT3045 battery option showed up recently. I don't see the iPower competing with it, especially for the cost.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LT3045-Battery-Regulated-Power-Supply-5V/273135946356?hash=item3f982bca74:g:vFIAAOSweq5av1nP
If you have the skills and want to really take your dac to a new level, replace the iPower with not one, but *two* LT3045 low noise regulators in series. I have a 6v board that feeds a 5v board. I can't overstate the impact. Floored me.
I tried to buy that now the item is getting upgraded I don't know why. Can anyone explain what does he/she means? It doesn't sound like an "upgrade". It sounds like a different thing.
Did he change the listing to reflect this?Doesn't look like bait and switch. now its $45 + 12 : https://www.ebay.com/itm/1pc-LT3045-5V-500MA-Battery-Regulator-Power-Supply-For-Home-Audio/312088447246?hash=item48a9ebc90e:g:P9cAAOSwv2taqxcz
I see a listing for a lifepo4 PS for $36.66 + 1.85 shipping.
If this is the original listing still, sounds like bait and switch. I'd complain to the seller and demand the PS listed at the original price, then escalate to ebay if he cant or won't comply.
And I can't really tell what the change is from that description.
I'm already a very satisfied user of the Sabaj DA3 (helped brilliantly by an iDefender) but, at the spur of the moment, I've ordered a Weiland Audio SE4 DAC from here:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Finished-SE4-PC-Phone-USB-Decoder-SA9226-ES9028Q2M-Audio-DAC-Support-DSD-New/273266457017?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Finished-SE4-PC-Phone-USB-Decoder-SA9226-ES9028Q2M-Audio-DAC-Support-DSD-New/273266457017?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649)
I'll share the listening experience as soon as possible... currently waiting patiently for the arrival of the package dispatched from the Far East...
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182405)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182406)
I've received the £38 SE4 USB DAC and and had plenty of time to test it... No driver needed for Linux (Mint 19 in my case). No driver needed for Windows 10 but Windows 7 will require the supplied Savitech driver.
The enclosure is well-made with no design frills, just functional look. The metal of choice is aluminium.
It works fine with low impedance headphones and it has plenty of volume driving AKG K702 cans (60 Ohm). The midrange has more presence than DA3, making the sound brighter which in turn makes it slightly uncomfortable for prolongued listening IMHO.
DA3 has better instruments separation, wider soundstage and 'darker' sound. Mind you it is not a 'night and day' difference...
For testing I've used a range of digital files: 320 kbps mp3, 16/24 bit flac and DSD64/128. All performed very well; I don't have any DSD256/512 native files but i've upsampled in JRiver to DSD512 and the sound was fine. I am not going to go in any detail over whether the sound is better when upsampling to the highest DSD sampling available in the playback application over the native file playback..
I've left the SE4 running music files quite a few nights for 'running in' the components. No ABX testing, just my brain and ear perception with the unavoidable volume change pitfalls... The sound is more than acceptable, the SE4 is a good choice for somebody that wants to play any mainstream music files for a very low price.
Sabaj DA3 still stays as a favourite budget USB DAC in my book :thumb:
wew, granted that the DA3 costs nearly triple the SE4, so that's quite a good performance already. Basically namesake of this thread, quality DAC for peanuts.
I paid £38 for SE4 from the quoted supplier (Far East) and £76 for DA3 from Amazon UK...
Anyone compared Topping D50 and DX7S here?
anyone have experience with this dac?
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-OriGen-G2-Resolution-Preamplifier/dp/B01N14SY65
anyone have experience with this dac?
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-OriGen-G2-Resolution-Preamplifier/dp/B01N14SY65
I made a usb stick with a lt3045 board that looks exactly like isilencer. Now there is no need for idefender and ipower. Cleaning power made as much if not more difference than isilencer! Lt3045 rules!
looked around quite a lot of impressions on the net since I like the design, most of them liked it with no glaring problems. The main thing that cropped up was driver issues, which may have been solved since it was released a year ago.
ASR had a faulty unit of the old G+ (different USB controller and DAC chip), unfortunately, but even then, it performed quite admirably:
https://audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/budget-dac-review-micca-origen-usb-dac.1476/
the pesky USB issues probably prompted them to change the controller
Uses an older Wolfson chip and analog volume control. Was never a fan of the Wolfson chips myself. Some people like the C-Media chip more than XMOS. The selling point seems to be the 5.7v to drive difficult headphones and amps. Other than that I'd say it's over-priced. But who knows, so much has changed in ten years. Maybe the Wolfson sounds better now with a good power supply and better software...
Can you share how you built it?
I am looking at recommendations for a C&C DAC that has optical input for a TV. It cannot be usb powered. And it must be under $100. I would like to find a used Schiit Modi but no luck so far. Please don't recommend the Fiio D3 as it sounds like crap, even for TV.
Thanks!
I am looking at recommendations for a C&C DAC that has optical input for a TV. It cannot be usb powered. And it must be under $100. I would like to find a used Schiit Modi but no luck so far. Please don't recommend the Fiio D3 as it sounds like crap, even for TV.
Thanks!
The Sabaj DA2 just arrived, color me impressed. Works fine with my Samsung phone and HP laptop, no issues with noises or anything. Awesome detail, good headstage, great bass impact. Download the new driver no issues. This is my first ESS Sabre dac and although it was a little harsh at first, an hour of break in and it smoothed right out. What is the complaint about these chips I keep reading about? Everyone says "if you can deal with the ESS sound", which is...
smsl sanskrit 10th anniversary edition.. been using it a couple weeks.. sounds great, the remote control has a very nice volume up/down feature.. and it can take an external 5v power supply.. been using my jays audio 5v linear power supply. very nice. uses microusb though.. wish it was usb-b
Wow, might try one out for kicks. Haven't heard an AKM DAC in a while. 4-6 month DAC turnaround time has peaked and no new chips on the horizon so the new models have more and more features for less. This SMSL has coax AND optical AND NDK clocks AND a remote for $93? Amazing.
On massdrop, but drop ends in 18 hours, for $75
So to cut a long story - what is the best budget DAC right now ?
I am thinking about that SE4:
https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a1z10.3-c.w4002-15493940501.70.763e1cfaRvjmOk&id=568408593852
there are two version:
SE4-SE ~20.86$ SA9226 processing solution + ES9028Q2M (supporting DSD)
SE4 ~28.16$ PCM2706 + ES9028Q2M (not supporting DSD = PCM2706)
What do you think about that DAC ? Is it ok - I heard it is quite good considering price/value. :D
I don’t have access to nor can I order from taobao so I dont know about those dacs. They do not sound familiar.
They're the Breeze Audio/ Weilang SE4 dacs. Two models with the same ES9028Q2M chip, different usb decoders so one does DSD and the other doesn't. Looks like about a dozen different brands marketing the same unit.I will not listen to DSD files for sure - so should I go for PCM2706 version ? Probably SA9226 is much better/newer decoder than PCM2706.
My guess is the dsd input is usb 2.0 and the other is 1.0 so it will work better with phones. Since that's not your intended use I'd go with the better 2.0 usb if you can confirm that.
Agreed.Ok - so I will choose SA9226 version. I am searching for DAC to use with PC and connect it to DIY TPA6120 headphone amp - so probably it would be better to have proper RCA sockets on DAC (I have some good quality rca cables) - but I will also find some rca to jack cable in a shelf ;-)
So to cut a long story - what is the best budget DAC right now ?
I am thinking about that SE4:
https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a1z10.3-c.w4002-15493940501.70.763e1cfaRvjmOk&id=568408593852
there are two version:
SE4-SE ~20.86$ SA9226 processing solution + ES9028Q2M (supporting DSD)
SE4 ~28.16$ PCM2706 + ES9028Q2M (not supporting DSD = PCM2706)
What do you think about that DAC ? Is it ok - I heard it is quite good considering price/value. :D
I have found today also SA9227+ES9038Q2M combo boards = but price is higher than SE4 ;-) sth like 43$
https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=2013.1.0.0.474c319dc3FiUe&id=575728410474
Update on the Sabaj Da2 I recieved on Nov 30. I previously said no issues with android, then the next time I tried Spotify on my Samsung the dreaded buzzing, ok on Pandora. Then the next day Pandora buzzing as well. Google reveals otg usb reads the Sabaj as a hard drive or worse, a device that needs charging. Unhelpful stuff about accessing the usb settings and changing to MIDI, most android phones won't let you access that. Finally somebody says turn the app on before hooking up the Sabaj, bingo. I remembered this is what I had done in the previous session by chance. So far no more buzzing, I didn't read back through the thread to see if this had been covered or not. Any experience with this from others?no issue with my da3. Works great I'm very happy with it. 3d printing a custom box for it to be lighter. :lol:
The Da2 is so light I can't tell that it's attached, it's the Da3 significantly heavier?
wushuliu one guy on headfi reviewed it and said it wasn't quite as good as sabaj da3, but I really wanted something with a remote for volume and that I could use my jay's audio 5v lps on so this was perfect. I like the sound a lot, seems warmer than the sabaj da3.
here's a quick video showing the remote changing volume. it's nice and smooth and responsive
https://youtu.be/wLsQ5BVWPFw (https://youtu.be/wLsQ5BVWPFw)
Has anyone tried this cheap DAC? :eyebrows:
https://it.aliexpress.com/item/Nobsound-Mini-DAC-ES9028Q2M-SE4-Amplificatore-Portatile-DSD-HiFi-Audio-Decoder-USB-per-PC-e-il/32884715706.html (https://it.aliexpress.com/item/Nobsound-Mini-DAC-ES9028Q2M-SE4-Amplificatore-Portatile-DSD-HiFi-Audio-Decoder-USB-per-PC-e-il/32884715706.html)
I have bought it on taobao - still waiting for package - it was sth like ~28$.
Looking at that circuit board, I can't see why it would sound any better than any of the other cheap DAC's already listed here.
I have bought it on taobao - still waiting for package - it was sth like ~28$.Please share your impressions when the package arrives. Thanks in advance. :thumb:
Please share your impressions when the package arrives. Thanks in advance. :thumb:I have chosen option with DSD - because it uses both sabre chips. Option without DSD is using pcm2706 for USB decoding. You can read more about it few posts below. There are also so comments regarding this DAC.
There are two models - with DSD and without DSD, which you have chosen?
I have chosen option with DSD - because it uses both sabre chips.Not really, one is Savio and the other is Sabre. :eyebrows:
I have bought it on taobao - still waiting for package - it was sth like ~28$.
That $97 Sabaj Da3 is very tempting. I don't have anything with the ESS DACs and do have a preamp with balanced inputs. If it's crap, I could do without burning a C-note, but would be fun to check out.I will test that chinese SE4 - I bought it because it could be "amazing DACs for peanuts" :-) 28$ :-) I have also bought some time ago some PCM5102 I2S dac for 8$ - it appeared to be better than custom made PCM2704.
I will test that chinese SE4 - I bought it because it could be "amazing DACs for peanuts" :-) 28$ :-)Did you get your SE-4 DAC? :eyebrows:
Did you get your SE-4 DAC? :eyebrows:Yep. I was testing it whole day with TPA6120 + superlux HD330 headphones - and to be honest, I think that my DIY PCM2702 is better ;-), but SE4 definitely plays louder (might be some higher line-level output or sth) and is quite good for portable use with android. Most of my music is 16bit 44100Hz, so probably I will stay with my old DAC and try to find sth different.
Every day something new.
It looks nice inside and outside. :popcorn:
Yep. I was testing it whole day with TPA6120 + superlux HD330 headphones - and to be honest, I think that my DIY PCM2702 is better ;-),Many thanks for info. :beer:
For another $100 you can get a Pro-Ject DAC Box S2 Plus that is from a reputable company although probably still made in china-
https://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=PRDBXS2P&variation=BLK&gclid=CjwKCAiAyrXiBRAjEiwATI95mb6-5XIntzXD9OK67WUryR8FO7e14XTFBd1JAmrEmm4vMB_XAYjtTBoCei0QAvD_BwE
ok, guys, so what do you recommend right now on the budget - I thought that that SE4 will be perfect, but it is not ;-)
Topping D30, Topping D10 or that ES9038Q2M mentioned above --> https://bit.ly/2ScVIZh ?
The be honest I would prefer to go under 50$, but if it is not possible I might invest that ~100$ (I am trying to build right now some stereo tpa3116 + speakers - so I think that it will better to spend more money on speakers than super duper DAC). I don't even need any HI-RES DSD - just clear sound :-)
The first post of this thread gave you options.Yeah, but I am not looking for portable dacs like sabaj da2 or da3. I would like to have RCA outputs.
Yeah, but I am not looking for portable dacs like sabaj da2 or da3. I would like to have RCA outputs.
I believe I explained that the DA3 is *not* meant to be a portable DAC even though they try to position it as such. It is a desktop DAC. Use a 3.5mm adapter.Ok I have just found that it has got unbalanced output - should be prefect for external headphone amp.
You are not going to beat the DA3 at or under $100. Equal it maybe, but not beat it. It is a powerhouse DAC in small form. In fact it's the only DAC in the budget range where the price has gone *up* since it came out. Nuff said.
Please share your impressions when the package arrives. Thanks in advance. :thumb:I wrote before about distortion from this DAC - it appeared that I have to set windows volume to 70% (instead of 100%) - this was the issue - probably my external TPA6120 heaphone amp was over-modulated by SE4 DAC --> now it is much better :-)
There are two models - with DSD and without DSD, which you have chosen?
@baszekYeah, I have tested but only one album. Unfortunately I have configured foobar2000 as DSD over PCM -- as far as I know for native DSD I need ASIO drivers & can't find it --- taobao seller is not responding ;-)
Have you tested the SE4 with DSD64/DSD128 files?
Yeah, I have tested but only one album. .. ;-)
And what are your impressions now for SE4 playing DSD?To be honest I have downloaded Sting DSD album from torrents and in my opinion TIDAL master MQA version sounded better - I will download other DSD albums and let you know --> but still I think I have to wait for ASIO drivers to check native DSD. I heard also that people are using some foobar plugin to do upsampling to DSD :-) - this is crazy :-)
I believe I explained that the DA3 is *not* meant to be a portable DAC even though they try to position it as such. It is a desktop DAC. Use a 3.5mm adapter.I have just watched Sabaj DA3 review --> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8HazumFx7Q -- it looks like that every time you power on DAC volume is lowered down and you have to each time volume up to get that 2V output to home stereo level - it could be annoying :-)
You are not going to beat the DA3 at or under $100. Equal it maybe, but not beat it. It is a powerhouse DAC in small form. In fact it's the only DAC in the budget range where the price has gone *up* since it came out. Nuff said.
Yeah, but I am not looking for portable dacs like sabaj da2 or da3. I would like to have RCA outputs.
I have just watched Sabaj DA3 review --> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8HazumFx7Q -- it looks like that every time you power on DAC volume is lowered down and you have to each time volume up to get that 2V output to home stereo level - it could be annoying :-)
@wushuliu can you confirm if there is such a issue each power on ?
I have just watched Sabaj DA3 review --> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8HazumFx7Q -- it looks like that every time you power on DAC volume is lowered down and you have to each time volume up to get that 2V output to home stereo level - it could be annoying :-)
@wushuliu can you confirm if there is such a issue each power on ?
I have just watched Sabaj DA3 review --> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8HazumFx7Q -- it looks like that every time you power on DAC volume is lowered down and you have to each time volume up to get that 2V output to home stereo level - it could be annoying :-)
@wushuliu can you confirm if there is such a issue each power on ?
It is true that the volume is lowered (22/36 if I remember correctly) but I found it very useful for headphone listening :)
And btw at max volume the sound seems "distorted"...
5. SMSL M-100 AK4452 XMOS XU208 :thumb:I have just bought used khadas tone board generic edition = bought it for 80$ with shipment. I hope it will be pretty good - I will let you know probably within a month.
I have just bought used khadas tone board generic edition = bought it for 80$ with shipment. I hope it will be pretty good - I will let you know probably within a month.
New windows driver XMOS_USBAudio_v4.67.0_2019-06-26 (http://www.smsl-audio.com/Upload/download/20190628172655900.rar) for Da3, Da2, D4, Idea, IQ, etc released by smsl-audio.
As usual no changelog provided but I've noticed a new "About" tab in Control Panel :lol:
Tested and working fine with with Sabaj Da2.
SABAJ are tight-lipped so far... the 'latest' drivers for DA2 nd DA3 are dated June 2017, respectively August 2018... Maybe an email to info@sabaj.com.cn (http://info@sabaj.com.cn) can break the silence...
I have just bought used khadas tone board generic edition = bought it for 80$ with shipment. I hope it will be pretty good - I will let you know probably within a month.
We came to $ 500 for peanuts. :green:
It comes in under, so should be okay. The D5 is worth every penny. Dadbeh said it held its own against his RME ADI-2, which I'd also like to get a hold of to compare.
Next up is a Schiit Modi Multibit.
The RME has a ton of functionality at that price level, but I'm not sure I need all of that.
We came to $ 500 for peanuts. :green:
I'll start a new thread on these instead.:thumb:
That's really pushing it for C and C. It's an extension of the other Sabaj DACs so I'm not screaming foul, but I don't think $500 comments are in the spirit of C and C in general.
Oh yes, of course. And I'm not really objecting to the D5, it's a natural extension of the D3/D2 discussion so we can overlook the price tag for this thread. Mostly I just don't want the general membership to think it's okay to start posting about $500-600 DACs. When a thread is so interesting with such valuable information we can push the envelope a bit, it's fun.
Modi Multibit: Yikes. Was excited for this one, but we're definitely not getting along. Kind of hurts my ears, even with the phones at a distance. I suspect coax would improve things more than usual (kind of got the noisy usb fatigue of older usb dacs), but unless there's a dramatic change in presentation it's not my cup of tea.
Definitely try it with coax, the only way I use mine.
D5 and D70 are c&c but are not peanuts. I'd love to read more about these two.
Has anyone had the opportunity to listen to this DAC?
https://hifi-express.com/collections/s-m-s-l-vmv/products/new-smsl-m6-hi-fi-dac-ak4452-decoder-native-dsd512-amp-asynchronous-multifunction-with-32bit-768khz-usb-optical-coaxial-input?variant=18595729178724
Your impressions are welcome.
... the Schiit Modi 3 uses the same AKM dac ...No, Schiit Modi 3 uses AK4490 + C-Media CM6631A, and SMSL M6 uses AK4452 + 2nd generation X-MOS USB (support up to DSD512).
No, Schiit Modi 3 uses AK4490 + C-Media CM6631A, and SMSL M6 uses AK4452 + 2nd generation X-MOS USB (support up to DSD512).
What about this one?
https://ifi-audio.com/products/zen-dac/ £129 I believe?
Likely to be any good?
What about this one?
https://ifi-audio.com/products/zen-dac/ £129 I believe?
Likely to be any good?
"Net, net, it works and is adequately good. Won't hold a candle to higher end devices or separates. For $200 you can get a DAC and Amp combo that would run circles around it."
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/ifi-zen-dac-and-headphone-amp-review.9885/
Martin
Hahahaha. You forget to mention that by their own standards literally any $80 DAC/headamp with no obvious faults should be good enough. And yet they continue to give subjective ratings and subjective 'recommendations'. By their own metric you don't need anything more than a Behringer UMC202HD - which sucked BTW.
SMSL M8A might be worth consideration $195 on amazon...recommended component on musicservertips.com- they have a review...I am using it with a linear power supply that I bought off ebay for about $50
Uses ES9038Q2M from ESS chipset
Anyway sounds absolutely horrible for first 40 hours, then really pretty good
I'm currently running an m8a into an Aragon Soundstage in stereo direct mode as my digital front end and am quite happy. I voice my speaker designs on this system, so I value neutrality and detail resolution above other Sonic considerations. I would think about the Sabaj D5 as a replacement for both with its volume control capability, but am not convinced it would be an overall win (dac upgrade but maybe preamp downgrade?)
Unless there was a recent redesign, the D5 would absolutely be an upgrade to the now old m8a. The D5 uses the Pro chip, for starters, while the m8a uses the cheap mobile chip (or maybe the even older ES9018, they've had several redesigns of the M8).I bought mine in 2017. It has the mobile ES9028 DAC. I have little doubt that the D5 would be an upgrade as a DAC but I am thinking about this more from a system building perspective. The Aragon Soundstage is a mostly obsolete HT processor, but very impressive as a remote analog preamp. The m8a-Aragon combo wound up at a similar price point for me as a new Sabaj D5 would run now. If one ran the Sabaj unit as a DAC/preamp with remote source selection and volume control, the value comparison comes down to sound quality. The real question is how well the D5 can do as a preamp directly driving a power amp.
Also reviews
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzzU-W2QqQg
https://majorhifi.com/ifi-zen-dac-review-economical-ecstasy/
I have zero interest in any opinion offered by 'Z Reviews'.
What's up with them?
Audiosciencereview (https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/ifi-zen-dac-and-headphone-amp-review.9885/)
Let the numbers do the talking.
Audiosciencereview (https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/ifi-zen-dac-and-headphone-amp-review.9885/)
Let the numbers do the talking.
:thumb:
That's his problem. He doesn't actually let the numbers do the talking. He inserts biased commentary the whole way through. Oh, and then the question of why the numbers he cares about matter. There are less biased people who do better reviews with the same equipment.
He and Z Reviews are the new tribalism in audio.
Bel Canto DAC 3.7: with external power supply (EPS) AND upgraded reference umbilical cord from KEF.A couple of corrections... the upgraded power cable is called the Bel Canto REF and has no connection to KEF. The upgraded linear power supply is the VBL, earlier versions were VBS.
I can attest to the DAC 3.7, it is my reference DAC. This DAC retailed for $6k alone, plus the KEF umbilical cord = $400.
Can you point me to some of these reviewers who do similar reviews without the bias?
Something that might be interesting ...
https://www.aurisaudio.shop/collections/digital/products/earmen-donald-dac
...I'd be curious how it sounds...First review, not so optimistic. :?
First review, not so optimistic. :?
https://majorhifi.com/earmen-donald-dac-review/
so in the slighlity more than peanuts category, i have been fooling around with a new topping e30 dac. I am very impressed. It is incredibly linear and does not emphasize any part of the sound spectrum in a very good way. Impressive clarity for 130 bucks......
Have you noticed any problems like this guy?That guy seems to have the Dac hooked up to a PC. Mine is hooked up to a stereo system.
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-e30-dac-review.12119/post-368465
.... Mine is hooked up to a stereo system....What do you mean? :o
What do you mean? :o
I think he means he's listening to music rather than measuring.
I think he means he's listening to music rather than measuring.It is not a matter of measurement but what is connected to the DAC.
This might have been asked before but I'm new. Does cable quality matter that much with USB DAC's? I mean the really short cables between the DAC and the phone or computer?People say they do. I never could tell but expensive ones do last longer. Headphone cables %100 matters (especially if you have something super cheap like Superlux).
Surprised the new $200 Schiit Modius hasn't been mentioned yet. https://www.schiit.com/products/modius
Unison USB, optical, coax, and AES digital inputs. Based on the AKM AK4493, balanced and SE outputs, with separate analog output stages for balanced and SE outputs. Available in black or silver. Plus the cherry on top is that, like all Schiit products, it's made in the US if you care about that sort of thing.
I got mine about 2 weeks ago. And it sounds absolutely amazing IMO. I've been trying to decide if I like it better than my Modi Multibit and I think I do prefer the Moduis. The most obvious difference is that it seems to have a little bigger soundstage than Mimby. There some other finer tonal differences between the Mimby and Modius. I'm not great at describing finer sonic details but you can read more here https://www.head-fi.org/threads/schiit-modius-discussion-199-balanced-ak4493-dac.933895/
I highly recommend it.
so in the slighlity more than peanuts category, i have been fooling around with a new topping e30 dac. I am very impressed. It is incredibly linear and does not emphasize any part of the sound spectrum in a very good way. Impressive clarity for 130 bucks......
All the DACs using AKM chips will likely vanish from the market place pretty soon.
The entire AKM factory burned down to the ground in Japan a couple of weeks ago and there will be no new production of any AKM parts for at least a year according to our factory rep.
Buy one now if you want a AKM based DAC.
Frank
I've picked up a used Topping D50 that should arrive in a week or so. Anyone used a phone external battery to drive something like this? Any disadvantages?
I bet the difference between the D30 and E30 in SQ would end up being an exercise in hair splitting. The E30 display is a great feature and I've learned to appreciate it with the DX3 Pro.
I'll let you know tomorrow, I finally found mine and it's charging up now. From everyone reviewing the E30, which has the same power set up as the D50, the order of preference was laptop the worst, phone charger wall wart better, power bank much better, dedicated PS like the iFi wall wart the best. I have a phone charger on it now.I bought a Mean Well PS for my D50s and it sounds pretty good in my desktop setup.
They sound very different in my system. D50 is typical sabre sound without the mid high bump. E30 sounds more similar to my D90 MQA but less of everything. Basically, E30 is smoother but could be considered more boring than the D50.
They are different beast for sure, but Leti was referring to the power circuitry. I'm eager to hear what he has to say about using a battery.
I cannot seem to remember the dac that had built in battery that you could hook up to phone for portable use. Anyone remember the name?Maybe the Sabaj DA3? They may have an updated model by now, not sure though. Some of the other Chi-fi brands have similar products too, like SMSL and maybe Topping.
I cannot seem to remember the dac that had built in battery that you could hook up to phone for portable use. Anyone remember the name?
I believe that was the Topping NX4...
Well, to answer the question if you can power a Topping 50 dac with a phone external battery, YES. It works fine.
Promises, promises.Yep, running late as usual.
So I might be interested in replacing my bel canto 1.7 of roughly 9 years. I don’t stream though. I ve been looking at the Musical paradise, but I’m not sure I wanna pony up 2k right now. Which topping might work, or are there others that rival the topping?
Yep, running late as usual.
So the main difference between batteries and a wall wart were... not much. Seriously don't think I could pick one out blind.
When sorting through DACs in years past, the Schiit Modi Multibit was a giant killer for me. Looks like it's under $300. I sold my MB when I acquired a Lyngdorf amp that doesn't require a DAC. But I've purchased the non-multibit for a couple of my secondary systems since then. It is also impressive for it's $99 price.
After reading this thread I purchased an E30 and plan to do some A/B listening (vs. the Modi) using my Wife and my Daughter as victims. They both have exceptional hearing and not a clue as the what equipment they are listening to. But love my systems, and have a good idea what things are suppose to sound like. Or, to put it another way, are very opinionated at to what they think is correct sound to the point of having specific cuts they like to use for evaluation. Awesome test subjects. I'll let everyone know how that goes.
I'm very interested to hear these results, Bullitt. Also, if you can spare another couple hundred bucks, I'd definitely be interested to hear your family's impressions on how a Schiit Modius stacks up in this comparison in to the E30 and Modi 3. I own a couple of Modiuses (Modii?) and just got an E30 I haven't really listened to yet. Also used to own a Modi Multibit.
Regardless of which one you may prefer, they're all excellent budget DACs.
After a couple years of the same old same old, things finally seem to be taking an interesting turn in the budget DAC market. Demo'ing a couple, will share some thoughts in the next few days.
Looking forward to your findings!
After a couple years of the same old same old, things finally seem to be taking an interesting turn in the budget DAC market. Demo'ing a couple, will share some thoughts in the next few days.Are you ready to share your findings here. :popcorn:
Are you ready to share your findings here. :popcorn:
Are you ready to share your findings here. :popcorn:
wushuliu, any plans to check out the Geshelli Labs J2? I've read a lot of good things about that DAC.
So according to the website this was designed specifically for my Hifiman HE 400i headphones, kewl.
OMG came across this little guy and I couldn't resist ordering one:
'HIFI Micro PCM56 R2R decoding with super beautiful sound'
PCM56 16/44.1 R2R DAC on AliExpress YI FAN 4.4 Store. $ 43 shipped! ('Updated version') 8)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233669)
(AliExpress Photo)
I don't have much experience with these older chips. These are possibly fake, but who knows. Good news is that
authentic PCM56 are available NOS from Rochester Electronics for ~$16 so worst case scenario I can swap. Also some
other R2Rs like AD1860 are supposedly drop-in compatible. The lack of opamps/complex output is also compelling.
Almost all my music is 16/44, so that's not a limitation for me.
EDIT: Ugh. Of course after buying I find out there's an 'updated' version from another seller. Post edited to reflect that pic and pricing.
Ordered the Updated Yi Fan 4.4 HIFI Micro PCM56 R2R DAC. For a (DC 18~24V, 5.5x2.1MM) power supply will the following work:
https://www.amazon.com/Decumoor-Adapter-5-5X2-1mm-Connector-Compatible/dp/B08B1HXCPF
I love you Wushu! You always make C and C so fun and interesting. Like watching a prospector digging for gold :)
Hi Wushuliu what USB/SPDIF converter did you used? Suggestions?
https://youtu.be/ISLN9u1QOgo
Sorry, missed the post. I was just using the cheap $20 Signstek DAC, which also works as a USB/SPDIF converter. I have a much more expensive unit on the way to try out designed by the team Denafrips use/used for their DACs.
PCM56 little black box is really good soundding DAC. Wushuliu thanks.
I bought the PCM56 DAC and had a 24v SMPS lying around that i have used for it. I have to say so far it's been good.Compared to the Topping D50 the PCM56 has a bit more texture in the bass and mids. Sure the D50 is quieter and instrument separation is better but the PCM56 just has a more enjoyable bass and mids.
I would be tempted to change the blue capacitor between the DAC chip and RCA outs.
I will continue doing comparisons over next few weeks
System:
MACBOOK Pro >Douk audio USB to SPDIF converter>>PCM56 DAC >>Tag McLaren F3 integrated amp>> Whatmough 202i lead lined Monitors.
just received topping e30ii a few days ago. powering the 5v input via HDPLEX 300. sounds very good. this dac uses a pair of AKM 4493S
this is a big improvement over the e30 and makes me curious about the AKM4499EX.
funny enough, got an apos spam mail this morning introducing toppings E70 Velvet w/ the exact chip. so, ordered it.
... introducing toppings E70 Velvet w/ the exact chip. so, ordered it.
There's a guy here in Taiwan who has upgraded all of his wall warts <I think all> with Ganfet power supplies, and insists they've lowered his noise floor and that 'everything just sounds better' that before. Have any of you tried using GANfet wall warts?
Lot of life changes in the past year but I've had some time lately to get back to music. New setup and adjusting best as I can. Fired up the little PCM56 and it remains a satisfying listen. Yes definitely the separation is poor. It's more like the older AKM chip 'wall of sound'. But that older r2r 'magic' is just hard to resist. So I thought let's bust out the soldering iron. It's a small unit, it'll just be a little tinkering distraction. I swapped out the cheap RCA's for spare DH Labs copper plated and a KLE silver plated copper which are very affordable at $25/pr. Lastly I swapped out the output caps for some spare Muse 47uFs. Easy to do, board solder melts easy. Man, what a treat (or Trick?). I love this baby. I hope to get some highish priced DACs on loan to compare later. The poor separation remains but high end extension is perfect, it sounds even quieter, lower noise/distortion (?), tambor/tone wonderful. Cost $40 plus fancy upgrades at retail equals what $65 shipped max. I'll certainly take this over the Schiit Modi MB or anything I've heard under $500 any day.
The actual capacitor is a 68uf, You have used a 47uf cap. Do you think going lower would be better? or doesn't matter?
47uf is what I had on hand. Probably best to stick to 68-ish.
you mean something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/MINIX-NEO-P3-Charging-Compatible/dp/B09JKJ1QRJ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=29AI8T1YFSGH1&keywords=GaN+Power+Adapter&qid=1670780364&sprefix=gan+power+adapter%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-5&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.18ed3cb5-28d5-4975-8bc7-93deae8f9840
i have used ravpower powerbank to power a D50s before and didn't like the sound. purpose of getting the e30 is just a novel idea to get a system completely powered by the HDPlex 300. although thinking it's just an idea now. after comparing against lab12 last night, e30ii doesn't come close.
just received topping e30ii a few days ago. powering the 5v input via HDPLEX 300. sounds very good. this dac uses a pair of AKM 4493S
this is a big improvement over the e30 and makes me curious about the AKM4499EX.
funny enough, got an apos spam mail this morning introducing toppings E70 Velvet w/ the exact chip. so, ordered it.
How's the E70 Velvet?
Well, unless there are convenience features it doesn't support, the Geshelli J2 made in the USA is a great option.
https://geshelli.com/product/jnog2/
I did not like the Topping that I bought, the E30. I'm sure their models vary in performance, but they focus on high scores on ASR rather than sound quality.
Schiit's on amazon. Modi is only $125.
Thanks guys! I ended up buying a Topping E50 DAC. I had a $70 Amazon gift certificate. I will report back on how it sounds once it arrives in about 2 weeks.An excellent sounding dac for the $. Notably better than the E30 I had. For a few $ you can get a simple linear power supply that is a substantial improvement over the stock non-supply:
An excellent sounding dac for the $. Notably better than the E30 I had. For a few $ you can get a simple linear power supply that is a substantial improvement over the stock non-supply:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B88ENAG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I bought one for all 3 of my Toppings and they all worked great.
You'll be glad you did!
Have fun.
Tried double and triple series LT3045 usb dongle today. Double LT3045 works flawlessly. Triple LT3045 works but unstable.4 year update:
Used these: https://www.ebay.com/itm/323569530540
Triple LT3045 requires double usb cable to power. Double LT3045 works fine alone. Sound quality wise:
3 LT3045 > 2 LT3045 > 1 LT3045
Wiring scheme:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=194139)
4 year update:Perhaps it would be good to indicate what this refers to? :?
This device and sabaj da 3 are still working fine and used daily on a computer.
Apologies if it's been mentioned previously, but I'm currently enjoying the Phillips Little Giant DAC. Supposedly the same chip used by 47 Labs back in the day, but who knows? Regardless, very smooth presentation somewhat akin to vinyl in many respects. About $48 shipped from AliExpress. Caveats being it's a very simple device only featuring a single coax input, two RCA outs and a 12V input. So you'll need a decent 12V power supply to get the best it has to offer. FWIW, other DAC's in house include a Denafrips Ares, Geshelli J2 and Line Magnetic 502. As always, YMMV, but it's an interesting option and sonic change of pace for the fraction of what you'd pay for an over priced interconnect.
nothing on the sides. wide open.
spec on website: Support format: PCM 16bit 44.1k~48K
i am using a matrix xspdif2 in front of it. so the dac is taking whatever the ddc is outputting.
it's been playing for about 3 hours. soundstage, air... all bigger. bass is stronger too but a bit too strong for my taste. for non bassy songs, i am not missing my other dacs.
vocals are very fleshy and textured.
after about 5 hours, i switched back to poppulse. i still prefer poppulse. highs more expansive and detailed with a tinge of sweetness in the treble.
after leaving it powered overnight and listening to it this morning, the bass bump is gone and the sound is all good again. swapping in the poppulse dac, i hear more higher end energy in comparison but now i miss the 1543 dac's sound more than the poppulse's. the mids on the 1543 has a quality that makes my heart feel sunk when i listen to it. iow, it's tugging my heart strings.
another impression on the tda1543 dac. i changed lpsu from hdplex300 to a no name ebay lpsu which imo is very high quality that i bought for around $60-$80 about 5 years ago. the dac sounds better with the hdplex. with the cheaper lpsu, it loses a bit of soundstage and smoothness just enough to drop the dac from special to ordinary. still very listenable but probably a tad below ares ii in terms of musical enjoyment.
Just swapped out the Poppulse for the TDA1543 and powering it with HDPLEX 300W's 12v DC output. The thing sounds smooth right off the bat. Definitely reminds me of the Scott Nixon 1543 dac...
But my simple 1543 have better mid overall to me, it is just more liquidity to it somehow. Some might say too laid back but to me it feel more natural, especially with female vocal.
...I've been eyeing another NOS DAC for some years now... the ANK 2.1 DAC kit. But if I decided to go for it I'll hold on to my little 1543 DAC just in case I don't the ANK, although this is going to me a lot of money to find out :icon_lol:
Hey SET man.
Yes, it's special. Like the 1543 dac I mentioned above more than the modern resistor ladder dacs I've tried from Denafrips to Sonnet/Metrum. This is especially so after I added this ddc replacing the matrix xspdif2:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805764362347.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.32.54441802h0d6Gv&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
I did try some other 1543 tube dacs such as Lab12 and Border Patrol (not really a tube dac but... ) Also tried the Orchid (1541 tube dac.
I like the $40 1543 dac more albeit when powered by the $600 HDPLEX psu.
Although, recently, I am using this dac more than the 1543:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805660696598.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.21.54441802h0d6Gv&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
It's a sabre chip dac which I hate with a passion. But, this dac sounds good. I am using i2s connection between it and the ddc mentioned above.
Three guys in our local audio club use ANK DACs: two 5.1 Signature and a 2.1. I was predisposed to not like the ANK DACs, a lot of money for a DAC that doesn't really do hi-res (24bit/96kHz) but I have to admit it is a very, very nice DAC. I use a HoloAudio May KTE, one of these years I would like to compare the two DACs.
I recently heard the ANK 2.1. We switched between vinyl and CDs (no streaming) and honestly, without looking, I wouldn't be able to tell what source was playing.
The turntable is excellent so the ANK 2.1 acquitted itself very well.
What phonostage was used?
Hi Viggen,
Please describe sound of the ES9038Q2M sabre dac in greater detail and how it compares to other dacs.
Thanks,
Alfi
A friend whose ear I trust is raving about the Topping E70 Velvet AK4499EX. Currently $381.65 at Amazon. No personal experience here, but if I were currently in the market for a DAC, I'd certainly give it a shot. No need to look for an outboard PS either... :thumb:
Although, recently, I am using this dac more than the 1543:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805660696598.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.21.54441802h0d6Gv&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
It's a sabre chip dac which I hate with a passion. But, this dac sounds good. I am using i2s connection between it and the ddc mentioned above.
Built-in OCXO and discrete class A output filter, all for $120. Fascinating. May have to get one.
Edit: Turns out this dac was designed by a longtime member on diyaudio. So some credibility there. He also has/had an r2r dac and a USB/I2S converter called 'UAC1' which is also on aliexpress.
Yup I am using UAC1's i2s output to the dac. I just ordered these:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805855753827.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.21ef1802HjHCDe&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805584176583.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.17.21ef1802HjHCDe&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
I tracked the seller to diyaudio too.
UAC1 is the first product I got from this seller. Better than Singxer SU6, Denafrips Iris and Matrix XSPDIF2. So, started buying his other products.
Yup I am using UAC1's i2s output to the dac. I just ordered these:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805855753827.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.21ef1802HjHCDe&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805584176583.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.17.21ef1802HjHCDe&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
I tracked the seller to diyaudio too.
UAC1 is the first product I got from this seller. Better than Singxer SU6, Denafrips Iris and Matrix XSPDIF2. So, started buying his other products.
Do you have more info or links on the UAC1? Not much I can find with google.
"Air swirling around you"? Can you elaborate? Is that a good thing?
Is there a difference between these two other than the name UAC1 and UAC-1. And what power supply are you using?
https://world.taobao.com/item/681228697041.htm?spm=a21wu.11804641-tw.shop-content.15.4617718caTZX5h
https://world.taobao.com/item/695632033271.htm?spm=a21wu.11804641-tw.shop-content.18.4617718cKxl3HA
they are the same and I am using HDPLEX300's 9v output. the one i ordered is the one in wushuling's post above. however, the one i received didn't have a clock input. so, i had to order a difference one to get the clock input:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805855753827.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.21ef1802HNY9r8&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
It's been about a month since the SI384 DDC and the accompanying -100hz clock arrived. With the dacs I have on hand, I actually prefer the UAC1 DDC. The SI384 exhibits a more studio quality sound. With each dac I tried, there's more space/air/detail and such. But, the UAC1 sounds more musical to me. Then, I found a Pontus mk1 on audiomart and the seller is very local to me. So, wtheck might as well try it out. I did previously own a Pontus mk2 but didn't like it but that when I had the Singxer SU6 and didn't appreciate the lack of longer term listenability.
First, I plugged in the Pontus to the UAC1 via RCA/SPDIF. It didn't sound annoying compared to the previous Pontus but it sounded kind of boring. The Pontus 2 had a huge sound to it but its fake N/OS sound was hurting my ears after 10 minutes. With this, it has long term listenability but lacks the charm of my other dacs when connected to the UAC1. So, the UAC1 has an i2s output. I thought what's the chance that they are actually compatible. Well, they are compatible.
With i2s, the sound changed slightly. Cleaner in a good way. Slightly raised soundstage and less background noise. But, only marginal improvement. Then, I plugged the Pontus into the SI384. The SI384 actually made a bigger improvement on the Pontus than the UAC1 did. And, weirdly, it didn't improvement the sound by making it more audiophile sounding. It's actually very listenable and even a bit charming.
Overall, I think SI384 is a bargain in terms of matching it up with your pre-existing Denafrips. But, in terms of dac/ddc, I think I still prefer the UAC1/TDA1543 dac. The sound has more character. And, it's so small and diminutive on the hifi stand. But, this is with the HDPLEX300 powering the pair. If using lesser PSU, the SI384/Pontus probably sounds better if memory of my listening experience sans HDPLEX300 is correct.