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Stereo Times review on Audio Note UK DAC 3.1/II just went live

My review for the Stereo Times website just was posted tonight. As I explain I have had in the last three years over 12 DACs in for review, ranging in price from $1,000 to $45,000. Well, the Audio Note UK DAC3.1/II was so much more musical and analog in nature that I was somewhat taken aback by its performance in my system.

For all the details regarding this DACs performance and why I purchased it after the review take a look at the review piece. If you are looking for DAC at the present time, I highly recommend you consider auditioning one of the Audio Note DACs before you purchase your next digital front end.

http://v2.stereotimes.com/post/audio-note-dac3.1x-ii-balanced-by-terry-london/


Teajay (Terry London)
amorstereo
amorstereo OP
64 posts
 
One of my best friends who is a dedicated audiophile and music lover came over to hear the 3.1/II Balanced DAC in the big downstairs system this morning. He thought it was remarkably beautiful in its tonality but was really amazed at the spatial qualities (size of sound-stage, space between players, holographic imaging) rendered by the Audio Note UK DAC. He believes it’s the best DAC, by far, he has ever heard in my system, and he has listened to numerous ones as I have reviewed them.
Post removed 
amorstereo OP
64 posts
 
Hey tvad,

I agree with you regarding the individuals you mention, very good people, and great high-end dealers regarding their knowledge and how they treat the customers they work with to get where they want to in their systems.
chayro
2,998 posts
 
I think it's a lesson to those who buy audio through specs.  The highest sample rate, upsampling, the newest dac chip, ad nauseum.  Nothing wrong with specs, but it always comes down to listening.  As far as price, something is only overpriced if you can get something of equal quality for less money.  How would you say the AN compares to dacs like the May Audio at half the price?  People seem very fond of saying how price has nothing to do with the quality of the sound. Apparently, sometimes it does.  
amorstereo OP
64 posts
 
Hey chayro,

Very well said! You and Peter K would have agreement regarding specs vs sound quality. The May Audio DAC has been in my system for comparison, along with many other DACs at different price points, it's a fine sounding piece, but not in the same league as the 3.1/II balanced DAC performance.
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