First impressions of new MH-DA006, Musetec flagship

@sns, by "stellar" I meant that LAiV's USB implementation, being galvanically isolated, is probably as good an implementation as can be found. I tried an iFi iPurifier 3 in the chain (Roon core > USB > LAiV) just for grins, and there was no improvement.

I also found the LAiV USB input to be on par with its I2S input, using a Gustard U-18. Switching between internal and external clocking on the LAiV yielded no noticeable difference either. Of course, that's a function of the clock quality in both the LAiV and the U-18.

In my 40+ years in this hobby, I've never heard MSB being described as analytical. That has not been my experience, having owned both the Analog DAC, and prior to that, the Signature DAC IV.

Looking forward to your additional thoughts once you start listening to the LAiV. 

@catastrofe In regard to usb I was specifically comparing Laiv to 006, my take based on manufacturer info is 006 takes more pains. In any case, I didn't hear any obvious issues using Laiv usb. Have Gaia cooking with Laiv via I2S at the moment in a small desktop system, can hear a difference between slaving to Gaia clock vs. using Harmony internal clock, not judging quality at this point.

Now that's some Dac.Enjoy....

After cooking for half a day, Harmony slaved to Gaia clock  via I2S far superior to usb directly out of computer, this is to be expected as Gaia acting as 'buffer' from noisy general purpose computer, clocking aspect playing large role as well\. Comparing this I2S chain vs optimized usb in main system will be much more formidable 'opponent'.

Just posted initial review of Laiv Harmony/Denafrips Gaia combo, 006 bested on virtually every parameter. I doubt 006 performance via usb likely to change much with burn in at a little over 300 hours. This means 006 would have to be advantaged by using it with Gaia via I2S, slave to Gaia clock or use internal clock?

Harmony/Gaia more natural or analog like presentation alongside all the audiophile sound qualities we look for, sorry, hands down loss for 006. Really quite surprised by this, I was very willing to accept present 006 sound quality  as a 'long term' reference. To have it so easily bested by Harmony combo is one of those rare eye opening experiences, I don't experience this kind of domination much anymore, usually far more subtle differences at this level of equipment.

I'm still reserving final judgment, however, 006 partnered with Gaia via I2S could be the magic bullet?