AKM makes the best DACs


OK, before you flame a reply to my heading please read this section.

It is a terrible idea to judge a DAC based on the chip.  I don't think consumer's should ever do that. I think there is a lot that goes into a good external DAC unit and the converter chip is just one of many factors that go into the final sound.

Having said that, it turns out I tend to like the sound of DACs with AKM chips over most others.  A long time ago I would have said the same about Burr Brown.

For converters which use an all in one chip what is the brand you find yourfself more likely to like the sound of vs. not?

erik_squires

Disagree with the thread title. Erik is usually not one of the closed minded types ;-)

AK4493SEQ:
THD+N [dB]  -115 
S/N [dB]  123
High-rate playback; PCM 768kHz, DSD512

ES9038PRO:
THD+N [dB]  -122
Supports up to 768kHz PCM, DSD256 via DOP and native DSD1024
DNR [dB] 140 (mono) 132 (8-Ch)

It's all silly.  No one has ever listened to a DAC chip.

I updated all. Now I am happy with the result though the change is not huge, it does seem more pleasant. I am using it for my BPO data. I like this very much.

Different strokes for different folks. I think the various chip manufacturers are all converging on the same goal of “perfection”

 

I used to hate Sabre dacs but have some newer gear/chips that changed my mind that I quite enjoy listening to.

 

AKM is great but I’ve returned or sold off every device that contained one.

 

burr brown is still my favorite for long term listening. Just sounds more “natural” and “analog” to my ears for long term listening sessions. My burr brown based devices include Naim Uniti Star, Gold Note IS-1000, PowerNode 2i’s, Denon PMA-A110, and a Parasound 200 Classic.

 

also a big fan of the PS Audio DirectStream DACs for a non fatiguing yet detailed listen.

 

Strata-gee came out w/a story on AKM yesterday. There is still no AKM factory. They still have not decided whether they should rebuild the original factory or build a new one. Right now AKM chips are being built on consignment w/other chip companies. The new facility could be a few years down the road.