Retirement System Finally Completed: Impression of the Mola Mola Tambaqui


I have made the last upgrade to my system for enjoyment in retirement.  The Wyred4Sound 10th Anniversary DAC that has provided much musical enjoyment for almost 7 years was replaced with a Mola Mola Tambaqui (MMT).  While I find the 10th to be the best DAC at its price point, 3x the spend provides greater performance across the board.  I auditioned Mola Mola competitors from DCS and Bricasti but chose the MMT.  The decision to go with the MMT was based on the its ability to produce accurate timbre and organic/dense images with state of the art detail that is neither etched nor fatiguing.  The DCS was as detailed but with a more laidback presentation and less dynamic.  Also I personally found the MMT more true to timbre where the DCS had a colder presentation.  The Bricasti was a close second to the MMT IMHO.  The bass performance, organic/dense images and dynamics of the MMT made favor it.  To clarify, all three are phenomenal, differences minor, and choice should be based on personal preference.  I also chose the MMT based on my preference in SQ and system matching. The Burmester 032 IA and Vivid Giya G3s Speakers are consistent with the system design intent and the components complement each other in this regard.   To me, the sound is tube like liquid and sweet but with solid state transient speed, micro/macro dynamics, and clarity.  Aficionados of old school tube sound and ladder DACs may not like this system, but that is the beauty of our hobby - each of us can determine our preferences and build systems to our liking.  There will be no further changes now that I am on fixed income and I dare not propose any or the wife acceptance factor will go into the red danger zone.  Shout out to GTT audio and Bill for his patients and knowledge in working with me to get the MMT.  I will enjoy the system always with a good bourbon or cognac in hand for as many years as He permits.  Thanks to all the members of this forum who have educated me over the years to be able to establish my final system for retirement.  Pics updated in my profile.  

jsalerno277

No apology needed as i see it over the rim of my glass….

congratulations on the DAC. i’ve heard one at significant length in same system as my current DAC and could easily make the switch. Very nice bit of kit. Lot’s of retirement wisdom from @ghdprentice …i think he’s subtly mentoring us all… i’ve been quasi retired for 8 years …. it flies…..

Congratulations on your retirement and you fabulous system. May you enjoy lots of years of health and good music. I’m still a couple of years away but planning I and love hearing these insights.

Glen

Congratulations! I was a professional sound engineer for 40 years then I got into audiophile equipment and it wasn't what I thought. It wasn't about accuracy like everyone says because audiophile systems don't sound like professional systems, (I have both in my listening room).  I would say don't stop striving for what you enjoy no reason to quit auditioning new equipment if you love music. 

Here is a provocative statement, I've worked with some great sound engineers that couldn't hear very well because they were so old and lived a life behind speakers so don't worry about your ears worry about your brain understanding sound.

 

@jsalerno277 sounds like a nice system, glad to see you chose Burmester, great stuff and all I use, enjoy

Great to hear stories about great finds on Bourbon, found in the wild at prices ate at or close to the regular MSRP.  $ 65 a bottle is crazy, congratulations on being able to enjoy such a great bottle or bottles while listening to your system.