Berkeley Alpha Dac Series II, anyone heard it?

In addition to the isolation from what I understand the clock is the major change. This is the same clock chip that is used in the Alpha USB and is supposed to be a new, SOTA chip.

Interesting. Makes me wonder exactly how this works - does each clock control its downstream component, or does the clock in the DAC control the computer? I mean, I'm assuming at that price that there is a clock in the USB device, that may not be true.

Keithr, the dealer must have had some series 1 still to sell...if he hadn't, he'd be talking about all the improvements. I'm still curious to hear from someone who actually heard the new series though, especially in comparison with the first edition.

Branislav...I have had my dac now for a couple of weeks but the trouble is I had sold my series 1 several weeks before it arrived. I think I have a good feel for the differences but I have not done a direct A/B not is this device settled in completely.

In general, I would have to say that RH's recent review is accurate. My main objection to his statements may be that I perceive the differences to be more subtle than his rave report suggests. It's absolutely better and it is audible at first listen. The greatest attribute of the series 2 for me is an ease that really does suggest more analog than digital. Imaging is more defined but also sounds more natural. Treble is a bit sweeter. Overall, I am wowed by the dac and there is no other digital device I care to own, regardless of price. FYI, I use it in combination with the Alpha USB and would recommend that for anyone considering this device.

That is usually the case with raving reviews glorifying big differencies, but it's good to know that the new version is better and that it's clear from the first listen. I wonder with so many capabilities, if it performs equally good with a regular cd transport...