We all hear differently, but having previously owned a TT2 + M-Scaler combo, I prefer the embedded DAC in the Aperio. Now, I prefer the T+A DAC 200 and Tambaqui DACs over both the Chord and the embedded Aperio DAC so I still like the fact that the Aperio has the option to take a feed from an...

I tend to shy away from Hifimans as most give me a headache due to some specific reaction I have to their treble response. So, Immanis is a better contender for me than either the existing or newly announced Sus.

I personally like the understated looks of the black unit compared to the silver and most certainly the gold. I’m still trying out an Immanis but i like having one headphone of each driver type.

Seamless purchase. Two thumbs up for the seller. Thank you again.

Interesting. I thiught the Valkyria worked well with the Mk 394ii but apparently not the 465. I do still prefer the Valkyria on tube amps however.

Highly recommended buyer. Friendly, communicative, and paid quickly. Would welcome working with them again in future.

I’ll go rather obscure and say I really enjoy the Valkyria pairing with the Icon HP205D running NOS WE205Ds. The amp also supports 300Bs and I also like the Tak 300Bs. Elrog-MOs were too analytical in that particular amp with the Valkyria.

Combining a few recent thread topics—while true, I personally prefer running the open baffle SR1a on the HSA-1b in “CA” mode (no OB bass shelf) and using the newer Mitch SR1b filters which include OB/bass compensation in software. The Mitch filter shelf just sounds more “realistic” to me.

Excellent trade with a great head-fier who was very communicative and fair dealing and allocated time to discuss at length pros/cons of the amp prior to finalization of trade terms. Two thumbs up.

I am not. 4 tube amps is my limit.

All three tube types (rectifier, input tubes, and power tubes) impact the sound signature but here are my general impressions of contribution by each type. Your investment in alternate tubes by type should be determined by your prioritization of these contributions. Rectifiers most impact the...

Great boutique Ukrainian tube amp. GLWS.

You should also look at a Holo Red or a Lumin U2 mini.

much obliged

I also agree with the video. I prefer the MMT overall but the DAC200, especially with a DSD feed, punches way above its price point.

I may have missed this in the thread but how do you update firmware w/o the MP200?

Depends on whether you consider a complementary hp which offers a lot or just a few contrasts. If the former : HD800s - leaner bass, wider stage, more treble presence versus Final’s bass, more intimate stage, and slightly less sparkly treble. Also dynamic vs. planar.

Gently used LCD4 perhaps.

I cannot speak to the Caldera pairing of the other Icon owner as I no longer own a Caldera but I find the Final (and its bass) to perform very well on the Icon. It is true the amp imparts a very open soundstage with great treble and mid presence. Unlike many other amp pairings, the mid and upper...

Which is a darn shame. I owned a Sus and a TC, sold them both, kept the Final.

I have #36. #3 is indeed very low.

Too rare and expensive now, but my favorite Islay malt from years ago was Port Ellen.

Interesting. I mainly pair the Icon with the Final and Spirit Torino which have great sub-bass and bass respectively so I’m very pleased with the lower FR overall but i’ll retry the Icon with something leaner.

You can also buy an even fancier remote as a separate but I prefer just using the iPhone app.

Tak and Elrog 274B fit just fine. A WE 274B (haven’t used on) MAY require a socket saver but not absolutely sure.