[dlparker]

are you saying the usb input sounds better than the spdif input?
That's usually not the case.
wonder if it's the similar on the DVA preamp?

I don't know that it's better. I'm running the optical output of a hifiberry digi pro into one optical input of the MK5 and my macbook pro into an OWC hub and from the hub's optical out to the other optical input of the MK5. I've got the coax digital output from a Sangean FM tuner going into one coax input on the MK5. I wanted to hook up another device that had only optical out so I decided to try the usb input on the MK5.

I may do an A/B at some point but I would imagine if there is any difference that I wouldn't be able to hear it. My hearing takes a nosedive at about 6-7k. It's always been bad, but it's getting worse with age - I'm 78. My hearing loss was the reason I waited until 22-23 years ago to buy my first piece of AVA gear. I just assumed it would be pointless given my hearing loss. That first AVA PAT-5 showed me most emphatically that it was NOT pointless, even with my damaged hearing.

I'll post my 'findings' when I do an A/B, but I don't know that I'd put much stock in them. Also - I've never had much luck attempting to give a critical listening to any of Frank's equipment - once the music starts I lose interest in trying to critique the equipment - I just enjoy the music. There are noticeable improvements each time I upgrade to new gear, but that's about the limit of my 'testing'.

[MatthewT]

I have an NP1 on the way based on the review. It will be used with a vintage Pioneer C21 pre-amp, Border Patrol DAC, Wharfedale Linton and Denton 85 and a KEF KC62 sub. It may also do duty as an external amp for a Pioneer SX-939 receiver. Looking forward to its arrival.

[YungestMarco]

Got the np1 power amp a few months ago and have been enjoying it!
Been using it to drive some zu audio dwx speakers

[cd45123]

I have the same combo with the NP1 and the Vision RB. Really enjoyable…that preamp helps provide so much air and extension. Very nice pairing and at times I really do wonder what the next level beyond this is, but I’m usually too busy enjoying the music

[yarrob]

I continue to enjoy my CA1 a great deal. Recently "upgraded" my cables. There are times, depending on the recording, that I detect a hard or edgy sound,  especially compared to my tube amplifier. However, the transparency, dynamic range, and timbre accuracy are fantastic.

It is easy to spend $5-6K on any component nowadays. I believe my ~$5900 system with the CA1 is solid!

Keyes EBravo streamer or Audiolab CD transport -> Pure Audio Lotus DAC -> VA CA1 -> Omega DynaTen J25 via Bluejeans cables