I was looking for a simple, low cost solution for my desktop that would connect to a low cost pair of Dynaudio Emit M10 speakers and the DAC9/STA9 combo is doing a great job. The filter that Nuprime chose for the DAC9 really strikes a nice balance between resolution and zero listening fatigue. The unit has a somewhat clunky/cheap remote, but it's reasonably effective. I like the use of balanced connections to avoid noise as well as taking advantage of the slightly lower noise floor that those circuits offer.
Comparing this to my Oppo HA1, I find it more forgiving on all types of music, and compared to my Teac I find it more resolving. I'm not a huge fan of infinite volume control (volume knob doesn't have a maximum stop point), but the low volume resolution that this DAC offers supports Nuprime's claim that it's transparent at all levels. Those seeking the utmost "air" from their music but willing to risk the irritation that such ability brings to music that some recording will cause, may find this DAC somewhat boring. For music lovers seeking to listen for long periods, this setup is quite nice.
The DAC9 would probably get 5 stars, but it seems to need a ground lift to avoid any noise (inaudible from 3ft) at idle. I'm currently in the process of actually replacing my motherboard to determine if it is the source of the problem however (yeah, the sound means that much to me
).
Comparing this to my Oppo HA1, I find it more forgiving on all types of music, and compared to my Teac I find it more resolving. I'm not a huge fan of infinite volume control (volume knob doesn't have a maximum stop point), but the low volume resolution that this DAC offers supports Nuprime's claim that it's transparent at all levels. Those seeking the utmost "air" from their music but willing to risk the irritation that such ability brings to music that some recording will cause, may find this DAC somewhat boring. For music lovers seeking to listen for long periods, this setup is quite nice.
The DAC9 would probably get 5 stars, but it seems to need a ground lift to avoid any noise (inaudible from 3ft) at idle. I'm currently in the process of actually replacing my motherboard to determine if it is the source of the problem however (yeah, the sound means that much to me
).
