I run a Metrum Octave Mk II with my Zu Essence speakers. My speakers have the upgraded drivers so they are probably very similar to your Druids. I am very pleased with the Octave's sound in my system. It is a very analog sounding DAC. It is neither forward nor laid-back in its presentation, just right. I would second any suggestions recommending the Octave with any Zu speakers. Consensus seems to be that the Metrum Hex is a significant improvement over the Octave, but it is a bit pricier. The Octave is never shrill yet it is quite detailed. It images with great definition and it presents a wide, envelopping, soundstage. What I like about it the most about it is its pacing and rhythm. It is a very engaging DAC. I hope this helps...
DAC Choice in 47Labs CDP system
Struggling to find a DAC which matches the musicality & emotional involvement of my 47 Flatfish/Progression combo
DAC's tried so far
Audiolab MDAC - awful - got a right toasting
Lampizator Level 3 & 4.5 These two DAC's were analog and natural sounding, but their presentations were as if watching a stage performance - distant. The sound was also rather skinny compared to the fat, fleshed out and 3-D 47.
As the sound with the Lampi's in was just too far away, the musicality just never made an emotional contact
I listened to a Chord Hugo, but that was with some Kef standmounted 'speakers and the overall sound was 'accurate' ('Hi-Fi')... with a top which was slightly edgy & uncomfortable. I am getting the Hugo into my system to trial
Other recommended DAC's from others is the Metrum Octave
My amp is the integrated Leben CS300 (EL84's)
And 'speakers are Zu Druid (101dB efficient) which are neutral to warm sounding
DAC's tried so far
Audiolab MDAC - awful - got a right toasting
Lampizator Level 3 & 4.5 These two DAC's were analog and natural sounding, but their presentations were as if watching a stage performance - distant. The sound was also rather skinny compared to the fat, fleshed out and 3-D 47.
As the sound with the Lampi's in was just too far away, the musicality just never made an emotional contact
I listened to a Chord Hugo, but that was with some Kef standmounted 'speakers and the overall sound was 'accurate' ('Hi-Fi')... with a top which was slightly edgy & uncomfortable. I am getting the Hugo into my system to trial
Other recommended DAC's from others is the Metrum Octave
My amp is the integrated Leben CS300 (EL84's)
And 'speakers are Zu Druid (101dB efficient) which are neutral to warm sounding
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