Back to the DAC
Just a bit of an update. When I inquired about a DAC upgrade in a recent post, it was suggested that I look at upgrading my cables first. Since then, I have done so (see my virtual system for that). Not over the top stuff, but a definite improvement over the mostly stock, generic cables I originally had.
System is sounding pretty darn good, but like most of us, you always wonder what a more expensive DAC will offer in the way of sound quality improvements.
Many of the recommended, higher priced DACs seem to include streamers and/or offer pre-amp capabilities. I have a good streamer and pre-amp and really don’t want all those components in one box.
Have any of you experienced a DAC which offers the sound qualities of highly praised units like the Mola Mola Tambaqui, DCS Lina, T&A 200, Weiss DAC501, etc. which their only function is a DAC?
I thought I would provide my first week’s impressions as a new owner of Bricasti Design’s M19 SACD transport and M21 DAC. Let me initially talk about the M19 by itself. I connected it via a Kimber Orchid AES/EBU digital cable to my Theta Digital Casablanca V, which incorporates Theta Digital’s highly-regarded DAC cards; their $5K "Extreme III" card handles the left and right channels. From the very start, I was astonished. Frankly, I bought the M19 just to be able to send the DSD layer of SACDs to the M21 via Bricasti’s proprietary I2S connection. That said, I really did not have any serious expectations for improved CD-based sound. Was I ever surprised! The clarity was dramatically better. I can only describe my reaction as being akin to opening the door to 38F mountain air -- the immediate sensation of crisp and clear. I am still amazed, and I must contribute this effect to the superior mechanics/electronics/optoelectronics of the M19 compared to my prior two excellent transports - a Wadia 8 for CDs and a Theta Digital Compli for SACDs. Next, I streamed some tracks using the M21 (and its integrated network card). Instantly, I detected better detail, a wider soundstage, and much more depth than my prior Lumin T2 had delivered. These same effects were obvious when listening to various CDs and (to a lesser extent) SACDs. This combination of M19 and M21 was, for me, very costly; together, the total MSRP was $26,500. Nonetheless, again -- for me, buying them was worth it. They are an "end game" purchase, particularly since I am now 78 (but, somehow, still with pretty good hearing). Putting together a really good audio system, especially without easy access to audio equipment dealers requires a lot of diligence and some luck; I have been very lucky because my new digital system was the missing link, and, with it, the sound in my dedicated listening room is now, well, fabulous.
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@navyachts congrats! You finally got the bricasti! I would recommend not making any more changes but play the N200 into the bricasti 24/7 for two weeks to break it in. Make a playlist consisting of all possible butrates and just run it on repeat when you’re not listening to your favorites. Then experiment using different filters on the Bricasti and see what you like best. A quick comparison doesn’t allow for all of the changes to sink in. |
