Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

"Everything was set properly (confirmed with Steve) but even with the volume control knob activated and on its most counter-clockwise position (supposed to be zero output) I was still getting a decent amount of volume through the speakers"

The Overdrive volume technology does not go to zero volume. This is normal. It has internal jumpers that can reduce this more, but if a normal listening level is at 9-12:00 on the dial, this is perfect. Muting can always be used if you want it quiet. It is better to have better control of listening volume IMO. A knob that goes from quiet to really loud in just a few degrees of rotation is not good IMO.

Some amps will sound better with a preamp than the FD. Its not really the difference between the Overdrive volume and the preamp that you are hearing. Its the fact that the preamp has a lower output impedance and the amps like this more. Its possible to wire the FD's to lower the volume by 6dB and lower the impedance of the Overdrive by a factor of 4. This would probably help here.

I would also like to hear what the effect of putting the Final Drives between the DAC and preamp. It is usually placed at the DAC, but can also be at the destination. The transformer is grounded to the destination.

Thanks,
Steve N.
Empirical Audio

Matt,

Another review of the PS Audio DirectStream was just posted:

http://www.audiostream.com/content/ps-audio-directstream-dac

Thankyou Gentleman, I did not know that about view count on audiogon.

Matt, that must be really a special pre-amp to beat out direct to amps, I am impressed!, You have got my interest in your Prized Roland Pre-amp, I know you are quite busy with this going on, maybe you can get the time to P.M. me and elaborate on this speacial pre-amp, no hurry, just do not forget me, about that pre-amp, thanks Matt, best Regards.

Aeris, Aeris, Aeris!!!

This is too easy to predict.