Sub $1000 DAC with AKM chip

I am a big fan of AKM and R2R DACs, my current DAC is the Topping E70 Velvet which uses two of the top line AKM chips and is a bit between the higher end ESS and most other in AKM DACs in a bit more I guess I could say lively sounding. I like horns and now building some OB speakers and will see how I like either one with the E70 V,  and tube, D and SS amps. I know I loved the horns with tubes and a good ESS DAC I used to run as well.

I think it good advice to look into a decent ESS DAC, find one used if you can, maybe find a used AKM, ESS and or R2R to compare, keep the  best, more fun and get to introduce your daughter to the hobby in a more engaging way:)

Rick

First off, thank you everyone for your input -it certainly has given me some insight. I’m going to have to broaden some of my expectations about DAC’s, especially after the comment from freediver about pairing a tube amp with an AKM based DAC and getting “the old Conrad Johnson syrup bottle”. I had been running various SS separates for years and moved to tubes on a whim and became a convert, but that comment is spot on especially since the integrated tube amp I’m giving her is warm and “syrupy” enough  -I don’t want to add to it. I’m getting from some of the debate around DA conversion chips that AKM tend to add to that “syrup” quality or warmth so I’ll definitely consider some of the ESS alternatives. I can trial them with my own system and give her my currently used Topping AKM…;)

I recently purchased an Eversolo A8 streamer that has the latest AKM Velvet chips.  I also have a Gustard R26 (R2R) that I have comparing the two.

I too like the sound of AKM having owned the E30 prior to the Gustard R26.

I must say, the Gustard R26 and the new Velvet AKM 4191EQ, AK4499EX chips are very close. I could easily live with either for the long term.

I would defintley lean toward the Gishelli at that price.

Couple reviewer’s opinions on choosing your new DAC

(1) Caution on buying Geschelli Labs latest new toy: be aware that tarted up with the AKM chipset and new op-amps and extras are gonna cost you closer to $750 plus taxes ….beware the “bait and switch upsell” approach from the cheap price for a camparatibe cheap build (and price) chipset, and base unit digital inputs/ outputs in the base option model with its standard TI chipset and no other upgrades that are necessary to mirror the “gotta get it” herd mentality review below.

(2) The sub-1000 dacs

I think Geshelli also makes a dac with an ess sabre chip.  I chose the akm but the ess was an option.