The LKS 100 uses relatively low level femto clocks, power supply meh, doubt the usb isolation really that good, you can do better. Still I could see a cheaper alternative to Gaia working if the i2s internal clock in 006 is of sufficient quality. I don't see this as long term solution, 006 deserves the best you can feed it, still it could provide some financial relief in short run if finances are a question. It wont apply to every situation, but I'll try local clock next time I listen, thus far only slaved/sync to Gaia clock.
First impressions of new MH-DA006, Musetec flagship
I have received the 006 almost a week ago and have been breaking it in. The price at Shenzhenaudio is $3,900.00 USD, $600 more than the 005. The ad copy states:
"DA006 is a new generation of flagship DAC developed by Musetec over three years and launched in 2024. During this period, it has undergone more than ten revisions and adjustments.
Compared to the previous DA005, the listening experience of DA006 has been improved in all aspects. DA006 has clearer and richer details, a stronger sense of texture, a more stable sound base, better detail control, a wider soundstage, fuller and more powerful, smoother and more natural. . ."
Some brief listening during break in has been very very positive. I will report back when it has run at least 300 hours.
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I'm sure I can do better than the lks 100. It provided a very happy stopping point a couple years back. But, now that we are moving into the winter, and I am developing an itch to see about improving the system, I will likely get the Gaia. I learned long ago that there getting a lesser quality alternative always costs more in the end. |
@car123 Totally agree with last sentence.
Simply escaped me, too much on plate at the moment, but for those staying with 005 my ratings didn't take into account 005/Gaia combo. I haven't tried it since 005 boxed up and ready to go, but I'd bet on that being very, very nice. Hermes at lower price point as well. |
I believe Gaia is connected to 006 over i2s which has clock signals as part of the spec. However, its upto the receiver to take it or leave it. Many DAC's don't use the incoming clocks over i2s (one good example is PS Audio DirectStream) as most of them are riddled with jitter. I am not sure what 006 implements. If 006 sounds better over i2s than usb, it could be the i2s data itself, it could be a better clock signal or it could be a combination of both. If you notice a better timing and rhythm, it likely the clocks are at play. |
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