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Orchid vs. Istanbul — anyone compare these MHDT DACs?

Hi folks,
I'm comparing the MHDT Orchid with MHDT Istanbul.

Here are the differences I can see (as detailed on the LTA company's website):

CHIPS
Istanbul: chip PCM56P-K R-2R digital to analog output.
Orchid: chip: TDA1541A R-2R digital to analog output.

TUBES
Istanbul: tube buffered output, tube installed is A Tesla 6CC42 military tube.
Orchid: tube buffered output, tube installed is GE5670 3 mica tube.

OUTPUT
Istanbul: Output level: 2.6 Vrms
Orchid: Output level: 3 Vrms

Finally, FWIW:
Istanbul: barely any discussion of this product
Orchid: tons of discussion

They seem very similar, but I know with DACS the details of the chip make a big difference.

Anyone with experience with both or opinions about those distinctions?

128x128hilde45
bogbeat
46 posts
 
Hi, Its over a year later from OP.  Anyone have any updates, experience, impressions, etc on the MHDTs?  I am contemplating R2R, and interested in any info and impressions on MHDT product line versus Denafrips product line...

And like OP, have same question about the Orchid and Istanbul...

Thanks!
hilde45's avatar
hilde45 OP
4,974 posts
 
I've really enjoyed the Orchid but have not had a chance to compare it with others. I'm curious to hear if anyone has things to add.
dtgill
3 posts
 
I just purchased the Istanbul from a seller on eBay for a really good price. I really like it, I can't compare it to any of the other MHDT DACS, but I will say she sings a beautiful love song along with my Lyr 3 and Loki.

I'm waiting for a 6SN7 TO 5670 adapter to arrive, so I try some of my 6SN7 tubes on her.

Right now the tube that I have in her is a Raytheon 5670 with the windmill getter
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