Hi
I have also done the opamp bypass on a x-meridian (shorting the non-inverting inputs with the outputs). The resulting sound is way better than any other opamp based system I've ever heard.
The total volume level reduction is significant. However, using replaygain and a powerful solid state amp (in conjuntion with the hot outputs of the x-meridian), I achieve a confortable level (80 db max) over a 250 ohms cans.
Sonically, the only opamp I heard that comes close to this setup may be the lm49720 metal can version (quite an improvement over the lm4562 ceramic which seems bright and harsh in comparison). I have tried several LT's, OPA's and LM's but they do not come close. Its sound is quite pleasing and neutral comparing, but comparing against the passive output, it is still a little bit harsh and "digital" on the highs.
Does anybody knows an external DAC for which the same opamp bypass can be performed but providing higher output levels? I suppose the DAC should be a voltage based one as the AKM in the auzentech cards to work. The other possibility is a dac with a fully discrete output. However, I am not aware of any DAC of this type with a reasonable price tag...
Last edited by janderclander14; 03-25-2008 at 09:28 PM.
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