Aplhifi, Thanks for the clarification. I was aware of the possibility to install two Superclocks and opted to hear the unit with one modification at a time. I stand by my observation that the single clock upgrade makes a pretty nice improvement. Considering the cost of $300 installed, I've bought power cords at three times the price that have made only 1/2 the improvement of this change. The second upgrade that I had done to this machine involves power supply upgrades. Being a "modder", you already know what was involved here. That improvement was dramatically better than the clock change, the clock circuit benefits from it and at $400 it is also a "steal". The second clock may be the next thing I try. The last will be changing the output stage.
I guess the object of this process has to do with the fact that I already own the DV-50. With just $700 invested, this unit has jumped to a dramatic new level. With the second clock and output stage...who knows? I'm fairly confident that its already better than the X-01. I've been in the hobby long enough to know that the difference I'm experiencing with these mods just doesn't happen when you change components - regardless of price.
Although I'm interested in hearing it against the new Esoteric, I'm also interested in hearing how it now compares to a fully-modified Denon. If this is the reference we are now shooting for, more modifications may be in order for my DV-50. The additional mods have been quoted at $1000, making a fully-blown DV-50 $4700-$5200 if you buy one used, or $1700 if you own one already.
I realize there are different approaches when it comes to modding these units. The real proof is in the performance, which is why I'm going to Chicago.
In the end, though, it is about having fun, making new friends, and listening to music. If we can advance the hobby through different ideas and methods, thats fine too.
