While most of the time folks talk about the converter chip itself used in a DAC, I find that much of the sound quality you actually hear is due to the analog output stage. Which is just another line stage in the pipeline. Op amp chips are clearly very cost effective with even the most expensive ones running five bucks or so and most about fifty cents.
I read about discrete JFET based modules that can replace a wide range of common op amps and decided to give them a whirl. Burson Audio located down under is one of several vendors who makes pin compatible designs using devices like I find in the Audio Research DAC8 used in the main system.
Since the Music Hall folks use standard 8 pin dip sockets, replacement of the three dual op amps - two OPA2134s and one OPA2604 - (this is a balanced design) took only minutes. Not wanting to smoke the new units with incorrect orientation, I took the measure-twice, cut once approach. While earlier designs had much higher current requirements, the V5's pose no challenges to the 25.3.
Results? Even with the modest garage system using a Raspberry Pi/DigiOne renderer, Hypex NC502mp amp and modified New Advents, they definitely elevate the performance in many subtle ways. You hear more inner detail without any false brightness. There's better focus with voice and instruments. You're better able to follow rhythms in the background. Closer to what I find in the main system. Highly recommended for a comparatively modest cost.
I read about discrete JFET based modules that can replace a wide range of common op amps and decided to give them a whirl. Burson Audio located down under is one of several vendors who makes pin compatible designs using devices like I find in the Audio Research DAC8 used in the main system.
Since the Music Hall folks use standard 8 pin dip sockets, replacement of the three dual op amps - two OPA2134s and one OPA2604 - (this is a balanced design) took only minutes. Not wanting to smoke the new units with incorrect orientation, I took the measure-twice, cut once approach. While earlier designs had much higher current requirements, the V5's pose no challenges to the 25.3.
Results? Even with the modest garage system using a Raspberry Pi/DigiOne renderer, Hypex NC502mp amp and modified New Advents, they definitely elevate the performance in many subtle ways. You hear more inner detail without any false brightness. There's better focus with voice and instruments. You're better able to follow rhythms in the background. Closer to what I find in the main system. Highly recommended for a comparatively modest cost.
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