Hi PLGA,Hi Vil-Mo,
I think I'm one of the R2R-2 owners you mention in your thread.
Just in case, I will say again that I only have compared 3 DACs (not to many):
1- The one the Marantz PM-7005 stereo amplifier has incorporated (a very decent one).
2- The SMSL M8 DAC, wich has very good reviews as a budget DAC and I liked it very much before I had the R2R-2.
3- Mi actual DAC, the Audio-GD R2R-2.
Some observations:
1- Even with out burning time, the R2R-2 was far more detailed and it had much more analog sound and more accurate tone on the instruments.
2- I think, and that´s only my opinion, that you need a very nice system to be able to notice differences between very good DACs and, if you listen through speakers (not only headphones), I believe you seriously need to consider Digital Audio Correction to get the very best of your system. I did that and the change in detail and micro dynamics (with the same DAC-Amp-Speakers set up) was big. I never thought it possible. I'm now listening to my library again because its like a new one!
One question, I see in your system that you have the Chord Mojo. How does it compares with your Audio-GD R2R-11? I mean with the same system of course.
Regards,
Pedro
PS: my system is Audio-GD DAC + Yaqin MC-13S amp with upgraded valves + Q Acoustics Concept 500 and I use Tidal with Dirac Audio Correction.
Thank you tor your thoughts and observations regarding the R2R2!
My experience with speakers (Dynaudio Focus 110 fed by Rega Brio R) is similar to yours that it is indeed more difficult to notice differences between DACs than with headphones. I am definitely tempted to try Digital Room Correction but need to find a decent microphone in order to get good results. It is for sure on my list.
To me the R2R 11 has similar qualiities: more analog sound and more accurate tone on the instruments compared to Marantz HD-DAC1. The comparisons are using the EMU Teak.
The HD-DAC1 probably had a little bit more width but less depth of the image. It had more pronounced heights - hence more air. Sightly more nuanced/refined, maybe (can this be better amp section but inferior DAC section of the HD-DAC1?) but ...
... but music from the R2R 11 is more true to life performances and to real instruments and voices to my ears and brain. More believable and immersive. Especially when not A/B-ing.
R2R 11 makes the HD-DAC1 sound a little synthetic in comparison (a term used by someone in this forum that i agree with).
Now how much of an improvement the R2R 2 is over the R2R 11 - this is the $500 question? Actually more like $1000 when you factor in a good HP amp.
Regarding the comparison with Mojo, the Mojo is a bit more detailed, bit not by much. A bit more precise with placement of instruments and with separation. Top end is a slightly more pronounced with the Teak
For timbre reproduction, realism and musicality I lean to R2R 11. Bass is more tasty with R2R 11. Both are very rythmic.
When I factor in the form factor and better suitability for desktop use - both for speaker and headphone use - I am keeping the R2R 11. Mojo is already announced for sale.
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