Audio Aero Pirma DAC versus MF TriVista 21 DAC

Well, I know it sounds 'weird' since the AA gets rave reviews, but since I got the AA (8/2004) there is a certain 'sharpness' in the sound wich gives me pain in the ears. Maybe it's not the AA that's causing it, but I tested a Mus. Fid. Tubalog before the AA and there was no 'sharpness'. But I wanted an upsampler and since the AA has both tubes and upsampling, I bought this one (without hearing it first, ...).

That's why I was thinking that maybe another tubed dac could be 'helpfull'?

I must say I get pain in my ears with other setups as well, so maybe there just is something wrong with those things...

Renaat

The rest of my system = B&W 805 signature, MIT M3 speakercable, Plinius SA201 power amp and Heavens Gate Audio XLR between DAC and power amp.

Try a (cheap) single-core copper speaker cable.

Such as??
Please do advise...

Thanks,

Renaat

Have you tried your DAC in a friend's system, one with which you are familiar? That is such a non-fatiguing/non-abrasive DAC, I have to believe that something else is causing your pain.

Have you listened to an all tube-based system? If your ears are that sensitive, you may need to move towards as soft & warm sounding system as possible. Also, have you treated your room? In my room, the harshest tones were always caused by the reflections in the room. As well, the copper speaker cable suggestion is good. Maybe try a pair of Signal Cables. They are excellent and inexpensive.

Oh, and please say hello to the Lion of Flanders if you happen to see him spinning by.

Regards,
Howard

The 'sharpness' you hear is likely caused by the AC, try a power conditioner on your front end components. Dedicated lines are essential as well.