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AMR DP-777, what am I missing ?

There are a lot of people here who love this DAC, I purchased one (used) based on the many glowing reviews, but feel like this DAC falls short.
To be sure it bested (by not a lot) my Wavelength Cosecant (better imaging and bass) but I still prefer my modest analog setup (Rega RP6, Shelter 500).

I am sure my digital front-end is not super tuned: IMac, audirvana, no-name USB cable to DAC. But before I spend more money I would love some advice from the good folks in this forum on how I can make this $5000 retail DAC at least come close to my modest analog setup that cost much less retail without spending too much coin.

Do I need to invest in a music server, or maybe a USB to SPDIF, or better USB cable or all of the above.

Rest of my system.
Coincident Line stage
Coincident Dragon mk2 monoblocks
Verity Parsifal Encore speakers.

Thanks.
essrand
redcarerra
55 posts
 
I'm having similar issues but slightly different. I purchased a Resolution Audio Cantata here and so far this is my experience. Playing CD's on this device is absolutely glorious and terrific. Digital off the computer, no where close but my digital set up is similar to yours, generic cable etc. so who knows what it is capable of. Oh and my analogue front end which is a Rega P9, terrific as well in a different way but the Cantata CD playback is quite "organic" as well. I'm anxious to optimize the digital playback but not for crazy money. I'd Rather buy some more lps or CD's.
essrand OP
297 posts
 
I was afraid that was going to be the answer.

Was considering selling my analog setup to reduce the number of stuff I own, but guess not yet.

Redcarerra, I am considering getting the ifi usb stuff to see if that could help. Mattshipln huge thread has considerable info on making digital sound better.
melbguy1
1,438 posts
 
01-27-15: Jmcgrogan2
I have a nice Marantz CDP that handles my digital needs, and has kept me satisfied digitally for the last 7+ years. I'm sure that digital gets better, but it still doesn't compete with analog, IMHO.
John, you need to hear the Vitus SCD-025 paired with a Vitus SIA-025 and either Magico, Avalon or Martens speakers ;)
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
David, I need to hear a LOT of toys.
Too many toys, not enough time/money!!

Very little Vitus gear over here in the States.
That would be the most difficult find of those that you mention.
wisnon
700 posts
 
You need to work on the Transport side.

So much cahhetr about the Dacs (which have been improving) but benign neglect of the Transport.

Try getting a CAPs server running windows 2012 server and Audiophile Optimiser in core Mode, a Sonore signature Rendu outputting SPDIF, a SoTM 100 Network Audio Adapter, and a stripped down Win8.1 PC, Aurender, Baetis, Antipodes, etc.

This will bring a clean signal to the Dac and you will likey.
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