EMM labs upgrades for CDSD and DCC2

I've owned every generation of EMM Labs seperates including a Meitnerized Phillips SACD player / DAC 6 / Switchman II ; CDSD / DCC2 and now the Signiture Edition CDSD & DCC2. Way back when I was even one of the handful of owners of Ed's IDAT- which along with the Levinson No. 30 was at the bleeding edge of the D to A art in the digital dark ages of the late 80's / early 90's- but that's another story... No, I'm not a Meitnerite- I've owned other statement digital rigs including Wadia 270 / 27i & Audio Aero Capitole.

Each new EMM Labs generation has improved on the last, and the current Signiture Edition models continue this trend. I would describe the differences between the original CDSD / DCC2 and the S.E. versions as follows:

** More Dynamic
** Several Veils Removed
** MUCH Stronger Bass
** MUCH Darker Background / Better Imaging
** Much Improved Remote Control

I hate to repeat the oft overused phrase that " It's more analog like ", but it is- I'm much less aware that I'm listening to a digital source than before and seem to be more involved in the music. The TRULY EXCITING difference is on Redbook playback. I always thought that the original CDSD / DCC2 was FANTASTIC with Redbook- BY FAR the best Redbook playback I'd heard. In fact, the Redbook performance of the original CDSD / DCC2 was almost reason enough to purchase the units.

The Redbook playback with the CDSD S.E. / DCC2 S.E. is AT ALMOST THE SAME LEVEL AS THE SACD PLAYBACK !! After several weeks with these units I still can't believe how good CD's sound- it's truly amazing.

I completely agree

Just remember, removal of veils is not encouraged in all cultures.

I've had mine upgraded and back from EMM Labs for almost a month. They've been playing 24/7. Similar to the above posts, the new versions sound more organic and relaxed with better dynamics, transparency, depth and imaging. It's a full spectrum improvement and not a subtle difference. When listening, it's now easier to be pulled into the music and not want to get up. There's a dynamic flow and pace to CDs and SACDs that sounds more natural. I listen to a lot of big band and hear the bite of the brass without any stridency. Drums and bass better penetrate the soundstage like they do in a performance. Vocals are clearer and sound more dimensional - front to back and side to side.

As before, the latest EMM gear benefits from top-notch power cords and good isolation. I recently tried The One power cords by Jena Labs and ended up keeping them. They have a very low noise floor, are neutral and dynamic and match well with the transport and dac.

Last comment: it's refreshing to be with a manufacturer that accomodates upgrades, rather than limit customers to a new purchase. I also think the upgrade cost is quite reasonable, given the improvements in performance.

I have to agree with Fbhifi. After having my DCC-2 upgraded to Sig. it was better top to bottom. SACD was even better than before but what really stood out was the improvement in PCM. They all sound at least a little better but a redbook that is recorded well to begin with is very, very close to SACD.