LAIV Harmony

Perhaps I’m missing something, here, but I don’t really see the point of debating whether a particular reviewer’s comments on a particular DAC are "accurate" or "reliable". In the end, what matters is how it sounds to you in your system in your room according to your tastes.

While it can be reassuring to read/watch a favorable review from a reviewer one likes, there is still no guarantee you will like it. In the end, there is only one way to find out. 

BTW, LAIV is not the only company that offers trial/return policies on their DACS!

@stuartk 

I absolutely find value in discussing a reviewer’s comments.  I have neither the time nor resources to procure multiple samples of a component and audition them in my systems.  I rely heavily on input posted here as well as online reviews.  If input from a source is not consistent with others, I think it makes sense to discuss it here so that we can make sound purchasing decisions.

I don’t believe anyone here suggested that only LAIV has a trial policy.

@audiostick

I wish you luck in your DAC quest.

Ok, after watching and reading every review, going through this thread and all 72 pages on Head Fi, I pulled the trigger last night and ordered the Harmony.

Any Aussies here can tell me the how long it takes to be delivered? 

Keen as mustard. 

I recently came across feedback from a user mentioning that the resistors used in the LAiV have a 0.05% tolerance, compared to the lower tolerance resistors (0.005%) used in other designs like those from Musician.

Could the company’s designer (if you’re following this thread) provide some clarification on this information and explain how resistor tolerance might affect the sonic performance of the R-2R DAC?

For reference purpose, here is some more information provided from google search.  The typical tolerance of resistors varies depending on the type and application:

1. General-Purpose Resistors:

   • Carbon Film Resistors: Usually have a tolerance of ±5% or ±10%.
   • Metal Film Resistors: Often have a tighter tolerance of ±1% or ±2%.
   • Thick/Thin Film Resistors: Typically range from ±1% to ±5%.

2. Precision Resistors:

   • Metal Film/Metal Oxide Resistors: Used in precision applications, with tolerances as low as ±0.1% or ±0.5%.
   • Wire-Wound Resistors: Can have tolerances of ±0.01% to ±1%, often used in highly precise applications.

3. High-Precision Resistors:

   • Vishay Bulk Metal® Foil Resistors: Can achieve tolerances as low as ±0.005% or even lower.

The choice of tolerance depends on the application's required accuracy and stability. Lower tolerance resistors are used in circuits where precise resistance values are critical, such as in high-quality audio equipment or precision measuring instruments.