Wadia 270/27ix vs. Sonic Frontiers T3/P3

I totally agree with Jkphoto. I have the Wadia 27 and although initially I too wanted to remove my preamp from the path (CJ Premier 14), after prolonged listening I just had to put my preamp back in. It is just too fatiguing. Try listening to any Myles Davis thru the Wadia connected directly to an amp --- you will leave the room in 2 minutes. I prefer listening with the preamp in the path.

I recently adjusted the internal DIP switches in my Wadia 850 in order to maximize its output level. I am now listening between the 70-90 range comparred to the 45-65 range. Since I am operating the 850 well beyond the top half of its range the resolution and overall weight of the presentation has been incresed dramatically. When comparing the Wadia's w/out a preamp make sure the internal DIP switches are set to match your systems sensitivity. Also, with the exception of some of the best preamps available...CJ Premier 14 for example, I have found the Wadia's to always sound better w/out a preamp. Also, it is spelled Miles not Myles...

Jla, I have opened up the Wadia and adjusted the internal dip switches so that I can listen to it in the 65-80 range. Once in a while I do take the preamp out of the loop but I always end up going back to the setup with the preamp in the path. I think if I had a better amp (I use a Krell KAV-250a) I could probably go straight thru to an amp and get good results but for the moment the CJ makes my system very musical. I agree with you about using a very transparent preamp or not using one at all. And I will try to remember that it is Miles and not Myles.

wadia is not bright. look to your amp or speakers.

Marklivia, I have BW N802's and as mentioned above Krell KAV 250a. I suspect the Krell's might be causing the brightness, but for the moment I will have to live with what I have. Or it could be my transport, CAL CL-10.