I just got my DAC6e back afte getting the "SE" upgrade. It is a tremendous improvement, and I purchased original unit in March. It was well-worth it in every respect. Jonathan is a true gentleman, and he was absolutely correct in his despcription of the upgrade. As I write this I am still playing my first cd since getting it back, and it has no break in whatsoever. If anything I think it is a greater leap than what I experienced going from the DAC6 to the DAC6e. It is more open, more relaxed yet more detailed. I am in a state of delighted shock.