Alright, having used the zen mini for a day with the Evolution DAC I’m ready to fully and finally commit.
Con: I’d still like a comprehensive manual, that fully explains each function, without being conclusory.
What remains is one of the finest HiFi components I’ve ever had, or heard, since 1969, including McIntosh. The workmanship is first rate, and the case stunningly simple and beautiful. The dac functions flawlessly, with every control feeling of superior quality and I can’t wait to begin using it as a preamp. Nuprime clearly designs “systems” into its components so that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, which, for me means the cdt 8 pro flawlessly fits in via 12s!
Now, the sound of this DAC is super detailed, liquid and projects a wide, deep and credible soundstage. You can point to performers or instruments! I now have NO analogue inputs and love it. The usb/mqa function works wonderfully and I can’t distinguish between a cd and the same file on Tidal with mqa. Yes, Virginia, it IS that good.
I’d like to thank John Casler and Nuprime for enabling me to reach this amazing plateau!