Berkeley dac1 versus Esoteric K-03

Owned both Berkeley DAC's. IMO: The "2" was slightly kinder and gentler than the "1". For the money I thought both were very good but preferred the "1" very slightly because of its additional slam factor.

Have not heard the Reference.

In spite of the rave by Robert Harley the Berkeley was quickly superceded by a whole slew of superior DACs. Caveat lector.

there you are Sabai, come over to Rhodium and Gold connector's thread.

Rja. Did you try isolation or conditioning for the Alphas.

Isolation and very minimal conditioning.
I've seen used Berkeleys at very reasonable prices.
If you buy a 1 make sure it's a later 1 because the early 1 could not be converted to a 2 if you decide to do that.
Although if you want a 2 it would probably be cheaper to just buy one rather having it converted.
Would be very interested in hearing the new Berkeley DAC.