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Use the DAC in the R-N600A vs the CD-S300

T

TunSalat

New Member
Hi
I got a Yamaha R-N600A receiver amp, and just bought a used Yamaha CD-S300 CD player/deck (don't have it yet)

Both have optical connection. And I'm wondering if I should use that or not
Which unit do you think has the best quality DAC?
Maybe the R-N600A because it's never and more expensive?
I don't know and would like to know more

If the R-N600A has the best DAC then maybe I should use the optical connection and let the receiver handle the conversion.
If the CD-S300 DAC seems best then I will use its analog outputs instead

Thank you
 
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TunSalat said:
Hi
I got a Yamaha R-N600A receiver amp, and just bought a used Yamaha CD-S300 CD player/deck (don't have it yet)

Both have optical connection. And I'm wondering if I should use that or not
Which unit do you think has the best quality DAC?
Maybe the R-N600A because it's never and more expensive?
I don't know and would like to know more

If the R-N600A has the best DAC then maybe I should use the optical connection and let the receiver handle the conversion.
If the CD-S300 DAC seems best then I will use its analog outputs instead

Thank you
Click to expand...
I don’t you or anyone else can tell the difference just by data sheet numbers. The final sound coming out depends on a thousand other factors than just the DAC. Set up each case separately and see what happens. You’ll need to spend time on each setup (days or more maybe) before switching to be able to notice nuances of each well.
 
Yeah ok. But surely there are some numbers or facts to show which one might be of better quality ;)
I just don't know them or understand how it works in depth
 
Have some fun. Pick some music you are very familiar with, spend an afternoon or evening to try both DACs, and see which one sounds best to YOUR ears.
 
Maybe I should and will do so;) But I'm still curious and asking to some knowledge/facts about the quality of the DAC in each unit
 
The R-N600A DAC is "SABRE ES9080Q 384kHz/32-bit DAC (ESS Technology)"
CD-S300 DAC is "Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit"
I know "the ears must decide".. but this seems like the R-N600A has better DAC
 
TunSalat said:
The R-N600A DAC is "SABRE ES9080Q 384kHz/32-bit DAC (ESS Technology)"
CD-S300 DAC is "Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit"
I know "the ears must decide".. but this seems like the R-N600A has better DAC
Click to expand...
Means absolutely nothing, just marketing nonsense IMO. You have to decide by extensive listening. Your ears will decide. Good luck.
 
I have tinnitus and might not be able to hear the difference. I assume the difference is extremely minimal
But there could still be a felt difference
I'm still curious about which DAC is best quality on paper
 
Maybe it's more a matter of "which sound character do I like most" of the two DAC's
So I see maybe I gotta try it out yes
 
AI says:

Burr-Brown Characteristics
  • Sound Signature: Perceived as warmer, richer in the midrange, and sometimes described as having more "weight".

  • Strengths: Associated with detailed instruments, a fuller sound, and can contribute to an excellent soundstage.

  • Considerations: Some listeners find the sound a bit "grainy" or less clear than ESS.
ESS Sabre Characteristics
  • Sound Signature:
    Often described as very clear, clinical, and analytical, sometimes perceived as having no distinct "character".

  • Strengths:
    Known for a very high dynamic range, a wide soundstage, and excellent clarity, supporting high-resolution formats like DSD and MQA.

  • Considerations:
    Can be perceived as "boring" or too analytical by some listeners after prolonged listening.
Key Considerations for Choice
  • Personal Preference:
    The "better" chip is subjective. Listeners who prefer a warm, full sound might lean towards Burr-Brown, while those who appreciate clarity and detail may prefer ESS.

  • Implementation:
    The final sound is heavily influenced by the entire DAC circuit, not just the chip itself. Even high-end chips like Sabre can sound poor with a bad implementation.

  • Context:
    ESS Sabre DACs are often chosen for high-performance systems and applications requiring a wide dynamic range, whereas Burr-Brown chips are sometimes favored for a more natural and musical sound.
 
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