Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit

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tmd

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Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit
« on: 16 Sep 2003, 09:28 am »
I took the plunge a while back and ordered the basic parts for the DACkit from Scott along with the bits for a pair of 3875 based amps.
I built the DACkit last night in a few hours. It is rough as guts right now as it is sitting on the back of an Arcam CD player without a case and with wires strewn everywhere. I let it burn in just overnight and listened this morning. Compared to my Sony 775ES as modded by Matthew Anker, it is far more 'alive' so far. I guess that is dynamics? It is feeding a Decware Zen amp through an Alps pot and the 3W amp is running a pair of 626 Neos. It is the most enjoyable music I have had in a very long time.
The bits cost me $100 without a case or power supply. Everyone should buy one IMHO, just to tinker around and have some DIY fun. You might also end up turfing out your kilobuck DAC in the process although I don't own one so I can't say how it compares to them.

MaxCast

Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit
« Reply #1 on: 16 Sep 2003, 11:07 am »
Can't wait to hear what you think about it.

626 neos with 3watts???  I'd like to hear more about that as well. :wink:

Rob Babcock

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Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit
« Reply #2 on: 16 Sep 2003, 09:28 pm »
Is it pretty easy to build?  At the price I'd probably give it a try.

Brad

Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit
« Reply #3 on: 17 Sep 2003, 01:32 am »
The Zen is more like 1.8 watts.
Are you using the 626's as headphones with a large bungee cord?

j/k:   Love to see DIY - especially with successful results.

tmd

  • Jr. Member
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Just built the Scott Nixon DACkit
« Reply #4 on: 17 Sep 2003, 09:12 am »
Rob,
I have some soldering experience but don't regard myself as being more than an enthusiast. I did find the component selection for the board a little confusing, as there can be variance of values. It probably isn't for a complete and absolute novice. However, never say die! If you get the kit, which I highly encourage you to do, I will be happy to help if you get stuck. Scott is also very helpful and the once I did call him, he was happy to direct me as appropriate.
As I said before, it is a joy to put something like this together and hear it work afterwards.
Brad, it doesn't look as bad as you might think. I chose a nice silk scarf instead of bungee cords. It sets of nicely against the piano black of the speakers. Now if only I could get rid of the neck pain when I am listening to music :)
In truth, I don't listen very loudly. I am in an apartment. I have no idea what the SPL is. I still need to invest in a meter. To my ears, it sounds great. I cranked it a bit yesterday and it didn't sound to pretty but it was Telarcs 1812 so it probably requires a bit of juice to get the speakers moving. I am going to put the LeAmps back in today and listen again.