Lumin X1 or dCS Bartok

@david_ten well, Lumin is using output transformers as part of their analog stage which adds some color but otherwise retains the detail provided by the ESS DAC chips.

To a large degree the goal and result is similar to that of the DAC I designed, which also uses output transformers combined with PCM1794A DAC chips.

dCS is not aiming for the same thing with their products, although with multiple filter settings you can influence the sound.

Listening to the Rossini right now, which has similar character to the Bartok. I came from a Mytek Manhattan II which is based on the ESS Pro. All I can say is it’s not even close between those two. The dCS has this smooth, natural presentation with incredible detail and separation. I loved the sound of the Mytek but it always had this hint of brittleness that I believe the dCS ring DAC and upsampling provide. 

@mayoradamwest I think you meant to say the dCS approach does not have the hint of brittleness that you heard with the Mytek?

Right, I think I missed a word in there. The dCS approach really takes the edge off, but to be clear, both sound wonderful. That said, I can't think why I'd want to spend 10k on an ESS-based DAC when there are so many wonderful options, like the Mytek, at half the price.

I’ve heard the X1 and Bartok in the same system, and they definitely have different sound characters. I preferred the X1 by a considerable margin, in fact I thought the Lumin T2 bested the Bartok (at less than 1/3 of the price). The Bartok is no slouch though, and includes digital inputs and the optional head amp neither of which are available on the Lumins.