2. digital
  3. 1390591253

Source Components, Genuinely Need Your Assistance

Hello,

I currently own an excellent system that replays the source material incredibly faithful to the original recording. The system is exactly what I originally set out to accomplish.

Like many others, I set out to assemble a system that was supremely neutral and would replay the original recording truthfully.

My music collection is primarily R&B, Motown, Soul and Funk. Most of which was poorly recorded using standard/lower quality mediums & new music which was created primarily with the use of Digital Synthesizers. When listening to these recordings, voices and instruments do not sound 100% authentic. Its approximately 85% "real". Thing is I know its not going to get there simply because its not on the recording.

I know this because when I listen to any "audiophile" grade recordings, regardless of genre, my system sounds perfect. Simply perfect. I am completely satisfied.

I realize now, based on the types of music I listen to, I should have never ventured into this hobby as the recordings I listen to just can't do a high fidelity system much justice.

Now its simply too late, I am heavily invested and I want to enjoy my stereo with "non-audiophile approved" music.

--------------------------------------

I am looking for a new source component, DAC or CD Player that will "color" the sound to my tastes.

The midband must not overly emphasize vocals, but rather highlight them. Vocals should be completely organic, authentic, natural, realistic, believable, thick and enveloping. Budget $8000USD

So far I have found these favorable reviews:

Ancient Audio Lektor Prime
E.A.R. Yoshino Acute mk3
E.A.R. Yoshino DAC 192
E.A.R. Yoshino DAC4 (release coming soon?)
Vincent Audio CD-S8
Yamamoto YDA-01B

I'm looking for some assistance, preferably from members who have actually heard the components they are recommending or suggesting.

Once I have a solid list I will seek out the dealers and listen first hand, hopefully get some in home trials.

Any help is much appreciated.

Best regards,
Shawn
sk3383
chayro
2,931 posts
 
I've always believed that the virtues of high-end equipment was geared towards acoustic instruments and that rock lovers would be better served by pro-sound stuff, such as JBL Pro or EAW. In any case, I would recommend you change your speakers to something that will give you high impact without being so revealing. IMO, that will be more satisfying for you than a change in source components. I own an Ear Acute and it will not turn a poorly recorded CD into a smooth one.

Check this out - http://www.kpodj.com/eaw-la325-p-100299/
rja's avatar
rja
2,356 posts
 
I owned an EAR Acute and thought it sounded very good especially when some great tubes were installed. So the EAR sound can be changed a bit by tube rolling.
However, I didn't like the quality of the transport which I thought was not up to the level of the rest of the unit.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,234 posts
 
Hi Shawn,
It would be helpful as others have mentioned to list your system components. I can comment on the Yamamoto DAC, it wonderfully natural and conveys the emotions of music very convincingly. The overall vibe-sound is organic with excellent tone and body, however it won't add gratuitous warmth or phoney coloration. In fact it's very resolved and realistic and avoids any hint of analytical- clinical artificiality.

It's worth checking in to and is a music lover's delight without superimposed romaticism. Cost (depending on the yen) is 2800-3000USD. I belive you'd really enjoy its presentation of music.
Good Luck,
Charles,
isochronism
2,893 posts
 
I will have to agree with Charles yet again (getting tired of this:)
Yamamoto offers TOP sound quality/price performance.
Case in point: I am purchasing a pair of Yamamoto Teflon tube sockets because they are simply the best!
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,234 posts
 
Hi Brett,
Well the truth is we hear pretty much alike, just look at our systems. I'd be
just as happy with yours as mine. I have no idea how Shawn hears music,
but if similar to us he'll adore the little known Yamamoto DAC.
Charles,
More to discover