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For those opamp rollers who might be interested in researching some of the technical specifications of many of the opamps we have mentioned on this and other threads, I am reposting below a list of opamp datasheets I originally posted as a "Sticky" on the Xin forum.
Hmmm, the phrase "D1 max-out" has a ring of finality to it.
So Ron, is this the magic cocktail, the whole enchilada, the Holy Grail, the ONE???
Or does the quest continue onward & upward?
Your adoring public awaits...
Best, Dex
While I am very pleased with this combination of opamps, undoubtedly the quest will continue. Not so much for new opamps, but for synergistic combinations of the ones previously tested and mentioned in earlier posts.
Even though a particular combination might sound very good to me, other combinations will no doubt sound better to another. So there will never be a "Best" or a "Final"
I probably have more opamps on hand now than I should. This project started out small but has grown as I have discovered additional opamps that do justice to the potential of the D1.
__________________
Ron Kerlin
Ft Myers, FL
iRiverH140&H-CF32, Head-Direct EF1, O1-DAC, iQube, iBasso D1,D2,D3, P3, Decware ZH1, SOHA(JISBOS) SM-Micro, Auri Direct, Sony PFR-V1, Sony F1, ATH-ESW10, Grado RS-1/aps, FreQshows, Sleek SA6, Yuin OK1,2,3, G1, Klipsch Image, ER4P/S.
Are there any good DIP opamps for the DAC of the D1? Just wondering since I have no experience soldering anything and I don't have a proper working space to do that kind of stuff.
__________________ Home: Headamp Pico w/ DAC -> Headamp Gilmore Lite -> Sennheiser HD 650, Modded AKG K340 Transportable: iMod 4G 60GB -> Headamp Pico w/ DAC -> Altec Lansing iM716
i just wondering, no body try to put 4562 as DAC/AMP opamp rather than just buffer..
Yes, I have tried it and it works OK, but IMO there are better choices for the DAC, such as the AD8656, LT6234, LMH6643. All are more lifelike with better imaging.
__________________
Ron Kerlin
Ft Myers, FL
iRiverH140&H-CF32, Head-Direct EF1, O1-DAC, iQube, iBasso D1,D2,D3, P3, Decware ZH1, SOHA(JISBOS) SM-Micro, Auri Direct, Sony PFR-V1, Sony F1, ATH-ESW10, Grado RS-1/aps, FreQshows, Sleek SA6, Yuin OK1,2,3, G1, Klipsch Image, ER4P/S.
Are there any good DIP opamps for the DAC of the D1? Just wondering since I have no experience soldering anything and I don't have a proper working space to do that kind of stuff.
Yes, check PM.
__________________
Ron Kerlin
Ft Myers, FL
iRiverH140&H-CF32, Head-Direct EF1, O1-DAC, iQube, iBasso D1,D2,D3, P3, Decware ZH1, SOHA(JISBOS) SM-Micro, Auri Direct, Sony PFR-V1, Sony F1, ATH-ESW10, Grado RS-1/aps, FreQshows, Sleek SA6, Yuin OK1,2,3, G1, Klipsch Image, ER4P/S.
It has been enjoyable searching for opamps that can further improve the performance of the very versatile D1, but at this point, I have run thru many different opamps, some of which improve the sound, other which do not.
I have about exhausted the possiblilities and resources that I have readily available, and have listed in previous posts those that, in my opinion, are worthwhile improvements.
As many have pointed out, my somewhat *fickle* choice of favorites has changed from time to time as I have tried new opamps and combinations of different opamps. One thing that I have discovered is that there is NO one combination that will please all ears. Any of the listed opamps or combinations of listed opamps sound good. There are no bad choices. Some are warmer than others, some more detailed and analytical, some more tube-like.
My first consideration has always been sound quality, of which imaging and soundstage play a very important role. I also consider availability, and current draw, as for many, battery life is an important consideration.
Also, if one is interested in comparing several different opamp combinations, cost is also a factor.
I will more than likely not be trying any new devices, as I have not been able to find any meeting the above criteria that show more potential than the ones listed. I have not made any attempts to use single-channel opamps mounted on Dual to Single adapters due the costs involved and the limited space available on the D1 circuit board.
Perhaps this is an area that someone else could pursue, as there are a lot of good single-channel devices available that undoubtedly would work well in the D1, presuming adequate space is available for mounting.
I currently have 10 different opamps that I feel significantly improve the sound of the D1, and will, perhaps, play with with some new combinations of these 10 if I manage to catch up with my soldering and mounting projects.
I think that many of the opamp combinations that I have discussed previously probably approach the limits of what rolling opamps can accomplish in the D1.
Although I have replaced the LR coupling caps with Blackgates in my D1, it is not my intent to continue further modifications of the circuit board, as it does require a measure of skill to avoid damage and will void the D1 warranty. I feel that significant improvement in performance can be realized without the necessity to accomplish risky modifications.
I am not trying to discourage anyone from this type of modification, but just want to make it clear that it is should be approached with much caution and one should be willing to accept the possibility of disaster!
IMO, the D1 with some of these simple opamp updates is capable of matching or exceeding the sonic performance of many highly-regarded amps that cost significantly more money while also offering a number of input/output options that few other amps can match at any price.
__________________
Ron Kerlin
Ft Myers, FL
iRiverH140&H-CF32, Head-Direct EF1, O1-DAC, iQube, iBasso D1,D2,D3, P3, Decware ZH1, SOHA(JISBOS) SM-Micro, Auri Direct, Sony PFR-V1, Sony F1, ATH-ESW10, Grado RS-1/aps, FreQshows, Sleek SA6, Yuin OK1,2,3, G1, Klipsch Image, ER4P/S.
Are there any good DIP opamps for the DAC of the D1? Just wondering since I have no experience soldering anything and I don't have a proper working space to do that kind of stuff.
Do you mind sharing your answers when you find them out? I am in a similar situation.
__________________
Laptop
COWON D2
Total BitHead
Sennheiser HD-650
Ultrasone PROline-750
Etymotic ER-4P
Modded KSC-75
JVC Marshmallow
And various other not as hi-fi stuff.
Well done, Ron, it's truly a fascinating journey that you and John (kudos also to Miguel) have embarked upon and a real inspiration for those of us looking to cruise along in your wake!
Opamp Datasheets
