Lampizator Golden Gate R2R vs Delta Sigma

I purchased a used GG1 a few years ago and loved it.  It was not R2R.  It replaced a Denafrips Terminator Plus with Iris DDC and in stock form the GG1 performed on an entirely different level in terms of musicality.  I am a super fan of Direct Heated Triodes.

I sent the GG1 back to Poland for upgrade to Engine11-P a year ago and can hardly believe the benefits.  It is now essentially a GG3 on steroids.

If you don't like the R2R I think you will love the upgrade!  I also got the new Volume Control and JL USB.  I am not using the USB as I prefer the S/PDIF sound.

I am not positive but think all the GG DACs do DSD.  I think some of the early versions had separate converters for PCM and DSD.

Thanks so much for you reply! You only made me want to buy GG even more! :)

I don't know if I like R2R because I don't have it. I only wonder what is the difference between R2R and Delta-Sigma models and if an upgrade to engine-11 will make these models equal?

@gabriel123, ​​​​​

I own the Bricasti M21 DAC. My DAC has a 24-bit delta sigma DAC, a 20-bit ladder DAC and true 1 bit DSD for DSD content. The front panel contains the settings to select what option you want.

I switched back and forth between delta sigma and the R2R DAC many times. After several weeks, I decided the R2R DAC setting sounds better. HOWEVER, I have friends that prefer the delta sigma setting. There is no right or wrong answer.

R2R DACs and Delta-Sigma DACs differ significantly in design and performance. R2R DACs use a resistor ladder network, offering simplicity and excellent linearity. Delta-Sigma DACs employ complex algorithms with oversampling and noise shaping, which can introduce nonlinearities. Obviously, it is more complicated than this.

R2R DACs are known for their natural, musical sound, preferred by audiophiles. Delta-Sigma DACs are precise but sometimes perceived as less organic. The MORE IMPORTANT thing is how does it sound with your equipment, your environment, your room and your ears.

Everyone one is different so the only way you can decide is to listen to both versions and pick the one that sounds the best in your system and your room. I suggest you forget the technology and DECIDE what version sounds the best to you.

@hgeifman, thanks. Is the difference between r2r and delta huge or rather subtle in your opinion? How would you describe the difference? Is it really like: "R2R DACs are known for their natural, musical sound, preferred by audiophiles. Delta-Sigma DACs are precise but sometimes perceived as less organic"?

I will have a problem with checking how does it sound with my equipment. I'm looking for used-one DAC, there usually isn't an option to return. That's why I try to get as many info as I can before buying anything...

@gabriel123,

I am sorry but I cannot really answer your question. As I stated above, I switched back and forth for 2-weeks and felt the R2R Setting sounded better BUT ALSO FELT the difference between R2R and Delta-Sigma DACs was VERY SUBTLE rather than huge. I also believe every listener has preferences based on their equipment, environment and room. This means there is no right and wrong answer.

I believe the choice between R2R and Delta-Sigma DACs for high-fidelity audio is subjective and depends on personal preferences. Yes, it seems R2R DACs are often favored by audiophiles for their natural, analog-like sound and simplicity, providing a warm and musical experience. HOWEVER, it also seems Delta-Sigma DACs offer high resolution and clarity through oversampling and noise shaping, making them excellent for detailed and precise audio reproduction. Each type has its strengths, so the “better” decision depends on whether you prioritize warmth and musicality or detail and precision in your audio experience. In other words, what DAC sounds the best to you.

I am lucky since my BRICASTI M21 DAC has both a R2R DAC and Delta-Sigma DAC so I can switch back and forth. I do not pay much attention since the differences are very subtle. I just switched my DAC to the Delta-Sigma setting and will use this setting for a while. Yes, it sounds good and I like it.

I said this above and need to say it again. I suggest you forget the technology and DECIDE what DAC sounds the best to you. If you are unable to audition, you need to rely on reviews, friends and Audiogon posts. I encourage others to post their comments on this topic.