Retirement System Finally Completed: Impression of the Mola Mola Tambaqui


I have made the last upgrade to my system for enjoyment in retirement.  The Wyred4Sound 10th Anniversary DAC that has provided much musical enjoyment for almost 7 years was replaced with a Mola Mola Tambaqui (MMT).  While I find the 10th to be the best DAC at its price point, 3x the spend provides greater performance across the board.  I auditioned Mola Mola competitors from DCS and Bricasti but chose the MMT.  The decision to go with the MMT was based on the its ability to produce accurate timbre and organic/dense images with state of the art detail that is neither etched nor fatiguing.  The DCS was as detailed but with a more laidback presentation and less dynamic.  Also I personally found the MMT more true to timbre where the DCS had a colder presentation.  The Bricasti was a close second to the MMT IMHO.  The bass performance, organic/dense images and dynamics of the MMT made favor it.  To clarify, all three are phenomenal, differences minor, and choice should be based on personal preference.  I also chose the MMT based on my preference in SQ and system matching. The Burmester 032 IA and Vivid Giya G3s Speakers are consistent with the system design intent and the components complement each other in this regard.   To me, the sound is tube like liquid and sweet but with solid state transient speed, micro/macro dynamics, and clarity.  Aficionados of old school tube sound and ladder DACs may not like this system, but that is the beauty of our hobby - each of us can determine our preferences and build systems to our liking.  There will be no further changes now that I am on fixed income and I dare not propose any or the wife acceptance factor will go into the red danger zone.  Shout out to GTT audio and Bill for his patients and knowledge in working with me to get the MMT.  I will enjoy the system always with a good bourbon or cognac in hand for as many years as He permits.  Thanks to all the members of this forum who have educated me over the years to be able to establish my final system for retirement.  Pics updated in my profile.  

jsalerno277

Are you kidding me $65 per bottle!!!!! You robbed that liquor store dude!!!

I’m a bourbon fan myself and I haven’t been able to come up on a bottle.
But…the bourbon gods did smile upon me once when I saw a store employee put a bottle of Four Roses 125th Anniversary Limited Edition on the shelf and before he even had a chance to blink got it. It was the only bottle - each store gets one.
I haven’t built up the courage to pop it open yet but planning on it soon.

Congratulations on your new dac and retirement. You've got a system that you like enjoy. That's what it's all about. 

I'm a few years from retirement, but I'm getting close to where I want to be with my audio system.  

@audphile1 No, I did not rob the store.  It was yet to establish its reputation.  I was there at the right time.  Within a year after my purchase it was $1k/bottle.   Now I see it from $1.5k to 2.2k per bottle.  Four Roses Single Barrel is also one of my favs due to its complexity.  I never experienced the Anniversary.   Enjoy.  I guess we need to apologize to the other members in making this thread one from The Whiskey Advocate.  Please accept our apologies.  

I’m sure we’ll be forgiven…

I see you’re using Aurender N200. Awesome streamer - I have one as well feeding my Bricasti M3. Love it.

Enjoy that awesome system! 

No apology needed as i see it over the rim of my glass….

congratulations on the DAC. i’ve heard one at significant length in same system as my current DAC and could easily make the switch. Very nice bit of kit. Lot’s of retirement wisdom from @ghdprentice …i think he’s subtly mentoring us all… i’ve been quasi retired for 8 years …. it flies…..