Decision time! Wyred 4 Sound DAC 2 or Mytek DSD-DAC?

I have the W4S Dac2 so far really good but it is my first real dac. I thought the remote was pretty cheap at first but it does fit in the hand nice and convenient for volume. I see there are a few electrolytic capacitors hidden on the boards. I hope they are not in the signal path. I read the forum for the Mytek dac before I bought the W4S but ruled it out. I didn't like that they said they used the 2nd rate ESS Saber dac chip due to cost.  So I look at it as they made a 2nd rate product and who knows where else they cut corners considering it was a few dollars more to use the top chip like the W4S. I would want to see some glowing reviews before considering it. I do like how the W4S usb connects nicely and instantly compared to my old soundcard.

The good news about the W4S is the ability for a quick resale, which gives options, although quite short of a 30 trial.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Audiophilehi 


The Wyred Dac-2 uses the SABRE32 Reference ES9018 chip. By the looks of the Mytek specs they are using the SABRE32 Ultra ES 9016 chip. While I'm sure the ES9016 is a great chip it's not as good as the ES9018.
See link below.
http://www.esstech.com/index.php?p=products_DAC

The differences in chip is the least important part when comparing the DACs, the implementation and analog output circuit are what matter.

I also think the Yulong D18 Sabre dac should be thrown into the picture.  Yes it's Chinese made and yes it's cheaper but I'm going to bet it holds it's own or might even be better to some people ears especially those that usually find the SABRE32 dacs too clinical.

I agree that the implementation and analog stage outweigh the chip specs alone. In fact, many high-end DACs use tried-and-true chips from years ago. Another common thread is the cheap remote control unit; it's like an afterthought on most of these devices.

I also second that W4S is a great DAC and very easy to resell at a minimal loss.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DrTone 

The differences in chip is the least important part when comparing the DACs, the implementation and analog output circuit are what matter.

 

 

I also think the Yulong D18 Sabre dac should be thrown into the picture.  Yes it's Chinese made and yes it's cheaper but I'm going to bet it holds it's own or might even be better to some people ears especially those that usually find the SABRE32 dacs too clinical.

 Hey DrTone,

Thanks for the clarification.

Not to pile on but what about the Eastern Electric Dac Plus? It also has the SABRE32 Reference ES9018 chip and gets good reviews.