Moodlab Concept? - Head-Fi: Covering Headphones, Earphones and Portable Audio

ak622 · 02-18-2007, 10:51 AM

Hi Everyone,

I've searched this forum trying for information regarding the Moodlab Concept that but nothing shows up. I'm wondering if anyone out there owns one of these units and how it would compare to other units such as offerings from MHDT (Constantine)? I'm currently using the Squeezebox 3 as my source and I'm wondering if it will be an improvement or just a side step which in that case I should just save up my money and go for something higher end. Any comments or suggestions would be great! Thanks in advance!

Quicky · 02-19-2007, 03:41 PM

Hi there,

I have recently got a Moodlab Concept to replace a Beresford TC-7510 MKII, and it's a fantastic sounding DAC. Much better, IMO, to the Beresford.

I haven't heard the constantine but from what I've read on here, it's better than the Moodlab (Help me decide on type of ety er4 and http://www.head-fi.org/forums/showth...140074&page=3).

I think that the constantine uses the Philips TDA 1545 chip while the Moodlab uses the Philips TDA 1543. Apparently the 1545 is better sounding but harder to implement. Also, I think (i may be wrong!), most DACs using the 1543 have slightly higher output in terms of volume.

Like i say, i haven't heard the constantine but i absolutely love the sound of my Moodlab Concept!

nkoulban · 02-22-2007, 01:11 AM

Hi,

I recently purchased a Moodlab Dice (the Concepts bigger bro). It is the same DAC only that it adds USB and Toslink.

As for the sound... WOW! Its is very detailed with vocals, jazz and acoustic music being rendered beautifully. It tends to be a bit bass shy, but this is a very minor critisism. I have been comparing it to a Lite AH DAC CAA Mod (as modded by COEM Audio). The Modded Lite DAC has 8 x TDA1453s, voltage is up to 8v and it has passive output (no Opamps) via NOS Paper in Oil capacitors. This DAC is a bit fuller sounding BUT it is just below the Moodlab's detail and air. To be fair on the modded Lite AH it still has some more burn in to do (need about 100 hours). At this stage the Moodlab sounds better to me. BTW I ditched the wall wart switch mode power supply that came with the Moodlab and purchased a Powertech 12v DC non-switch mode power supply... this really made a difference to the sound.

I am also shortly going to listen to a Musliand MD10 DAC. Based on an extended audition I will end up selling one of these DACs and keeping the best two.

My opinion is that the Moodlab is one heck of a DAC and well worth considering.

Quicky · 02-22-2007, 12:43 PM

Hey nkoulban,

Can you give me any more info on the power supply you got for your DAC? What exaclty are the specs in terms of current etc?

What areas did this improve sound-wise?

Thanks

nkoulban · 02-25-2007, 11:00 PM

I purchased this power supply from a local electronics shop here in Melbourne (Jaycar). It is called a Powertech. It offers 12VDC filtered in a non switchmode powersupply. It is fairly bulky and robust but cheap ($39.95 AUD) as it is a Chinse made. (See the following link for details).

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productResu...Min=&priceMax=

12V DC 1 Amp Regulated Power Pack

Delivers 12V DC at any current draw up to 1 amp. Ideal for sensitive equipment that requires spot on voltage.- Supplied with 7 plugs.- Desktop type unit.- Size 140(L) x 63 (W) x 57 (H)mm- Safety approval number: N14315.

As for sound it seemed to reduce the noise floor, sound stage and overall impact improved... a general tightening up of the sound. This is a quality but cheap torroidal PSU without the auduiphile price tag.

nkoulban · 02-25-2007, 11:08 PM

I currently own 3 DACs. I have been on a quest to find one I like. Now it looks like I will be selling some and settling for my faves.

This list is in order of preference:
1. Musiland MD10 DAC - This has the highest resolution and detail. It has a an analytical sound but it is not too cold as a result.

2. Moodlab DICE - This has less detail but offers a very musical and non-fatiguing sound.

3. Lite AH CAA Mod - This has a very warm and analogue sound. It also has the fullest sound... almost sounds like you are listening to vinyl. It also has less detail (just) to the Moodlab DICE. It offers a great counterpoint to the Musiland MD10.

Nattydraddy · 07-07-2007, 10:42 AM

Would be intressted how the CIAudio VDA2 fit in there. It should have vinyl-like sound, but should also deliver lots of details. Maybe the CIAudio sounds like a Moodlab Concept/Dice, maybe it´s better in both terms.

Have anyone compared the two (Moodlab and CIAudio) with another?

donor · 07-12-2007, 06:34 PM

I just bought a Mood-Lab's Dice, and I'm trying to get some information on a suggested burn-in time.

I was unable to find any information about burning in the Dice, but I read in another review that the Dice has black-gate capacitors. Those do take awhile to burn-in right?

Therefor should I expect improvements during burn-in with the Dice? Anyone?

ratso · 07-18-2007, 05:04 PM

i have a concept and if you would like it i will sell it to you for $175 plus shipping. mine is the older unit, which is the same as the new one minus the usb port and with the black face instead of the plexiglass. i am very pleased with it, but i am modding my squeezbox for analog and wont need a dac. i will include an rca and toslink cord. the unit is in new condition and has broken in, it is approx. 3 mos. old. if interested please email me, my name is mike, at mikehannah_@hotmail.com.