Anyone tested the new soundcard and can give some feedback?
I've been listening to the new unit for several days. Compared to the older unit, the upgrade offers a noticeable improvement in resolution.
Is it a $500 improvement in overall sound? In categorical terms, it is a component upgrade; you would be remiss in not upgrading your current unit. It sounds characteristically like the older BDP, however there is much more retrieval of information making it a more satisfying and exciting listening experience. Backgrounds are darker, it's tonally a little richer, there is more clarity and transparency, and there is less grit in the presentation. The soundstage is a bit broader overall, but this took about a week of break-in to realize.
Why otherwise you would you pay $500 to upgrade?
It plays DSD through the AES/EBU output.
