[GingerMAN]

One of the best Lampi DAC I was lucky to own was the Golden Gate 2. I offloaded it as newer models from Lampizator were hitting the market,  a bit too frequent and I couldn't simply keep up with the upgrade wagon. Sadly it was sold. I see so many new units especially on the higher end, with significant prices, all of course claim to be better than the previous model. Is this really the case?

[Jarbs]

I started with a GG1, upgraded to GG2, then traded for Pacific, then traded for Horizon. Added a Baltic 4 for a second system. Each step up was meaningful and worth the spend IMO. Each of us has a different tolerance for the SQ/$ ratio. The new Aphrodite is not in my future, but I don’t doubt it is better than the others. At most any level system matching comes into play, but in my experience, any upgrade in the source will net a benefit.

On reflection after this journey, I’ve told others that I could have stopped at the GG2 and been happy. There is always something better. Eventually you have to decide when enough is enough. Or maybe wait for well priced used units