I have a Modi-2 Multi-bit (Mimby). I think it sounds very good and is great value. Sometimes the highs have a metallic glare, though. A hi-hat can sound like air being released from a tire.
From the reviews I've read, it sounds that as you go up the line of Schiit DACS, the high's are improved - but most everything else is similar. But for $250, the Modi Multi-bit is not a risky choice at all, IMO.
To my ears, the Mimby is better than the built-in ESS Sabre DAC that was built-in to my Yamaha integrated. I think that was using the 9018 chip.
But, my CD player from 2000 sounds better to me than the Mimby. It has two PCM63 chips with a PMD100 filter. The highs are just as detailed, if not more than the Mimby, but not so pronounced.
I'm buying a new DAC early next year. As of now, I'm interested in top or second tier models from Mojo-Audio, Metrum, Schiit, SW1X.
On the used market, old dacs like the Adcom GDA-600 or Parasound 1100HD can be had for around $200. These have the same chips as my CD player. I've read that the opamps and other components can be upgraded cheaply with excellent results. I might do this, just to see how it would stack up to the Mimby and whatever I might demo, as well as a learning opportunity for me.
-Veroguy
