EMM Labs DAC6 vs. latest version dCS

SM2727 has a pt but then what we shld be comparing is the new EMM Labs transport + DACC2 which also has its own pre-map functionality built in vs the dCS gear direct to a power amp, I guess: comparing pricing, dCS under this scenario is far more expensive and both dispense with the need to purchase a separate pre-amp.

The dcs stuff on the new market is nuts I agree. I'm talking used here. I'm selling my dcs set up for 5500 now pre-amp. Figure out what the EMM or Zanden stuff costs right now. A self serving comment because I am selling some, but, I usually think in terms of used equipment as regards value...

I used the dCS Elgar by itself driving my amps as compared with the H-Cat line stage. The Elgar digital volume control sounds awful, especially unless as wide open as possible. As I have used other digital volume controls with similar results, I have concluded that I do not like them.

I use a Meitnerized Philips SACD 1000 with the DCC2.

My contribution to this very informative thread is the importance of the power chords as mentioned by saxman2 5/5/04.

I use a Shunyata Hydra supplied by an Anaconda alpha and then supply the DCC2 with a Python VX...I compared the free Kimber chord supplied with the DCC2 to both a stock cord and the Python Vx and found the Kimber significantly better than the stock chord but the Python Vx elevated the DCC2 to a whole other level.

At $1k retail for the Python VX you get pretty much 90% of the performance of the twice more costly Anaconda Vx.

Regarding the main purpose of the thread ie DCS vs EMMLABS, I consider the EMMLABS a clear winner on performance & price.

EMMLABS DCC2 is fabulous package & concept and I am sure will send many other overpriced suppliers back to the drawing boards.

i agree with tbg's comment that the dcs gear sounds better with a preamp rather than going direct into the amp. i think i lose some detail and transparency with a preamp in the chain, but the dcs already offers so much that to my ears it's worth the trade off for the benefits of a preamp. i haven't heard the meinter gear.