mikemalter
1000+ Head-Fier
Quote:
The DAC-2 now probably has 200-250 hours on it. I've been doing quite a bit of listening the past week. Impressions have changed
- Using SB Touch as Source (Coax to DAC2) connected to the WA22 with balanced ICs and using HD800 balanced the sound is amazing. I have a few 24/96 albums from HDTracks and they are a real treat! I can only compare it to the modded DL3 from memory as I'm using that in my main stereo setup now (and still loving it) - I still think the DL3 rocks for this type of usage and probably would not have moved to the W4S if this was my only usage.
- Using my laptop as Source (USB to DAC2) connected to the WA22 with balanced ICs and using HD800 balanced the sound is just as good (maybe slightly better than the Touch - really a toss-up - I use the Touch more for convenience). I have been using both Foobar and J River with FLACs. I can't tell a difference in sound from either player. They both sound awesome. In this usage the DAC2 is definitely better than the DL3 however the DL3 was not bad - like comparing a BMW 7 series to a 5 series -- most people would be really happy with either.
- Using Touch or Laptop as Source and DAC2 as the pre-amp for my Klein+Hummel o300 active monitors is where the DAC2 has really improved in the past month. I much preferred listening with the WA22 and HD800 headphones when I wrote my last post. That has changed. Now I'm just floored by how smooth and precise the K+H speakers on my desk are sounding. I have recently found myself listening to them more than my headphones. The DL3 couldn't be used in this configuration unless I was to add a separate pre-amp so for me this capability and results really make the DAC2 shine.
- The DL3 is still quite a piece in my main stereo/theater system and when I want to really shake the house I go to it. Sometimes I think about selling the DL3 since it's not being used very often but then I end up listening to a couple of songs and can't bring myself to do it.
Is the DL3 the PS Audio DL3?