[gdbk]

I'm using very nice wire. My comparisons are to a well modified Akitika GT-102 with the likes of Pulsar CUii internal wiring, etc. I still prefer the GT-102 to the DA-9, but like the 9 very much for what it is.

sounds about right. no matter what we think the SMSL is a budget priced device that happens to hit above it's target and competition. When mine arrives, it will not be my primary amp for critical listening, i'll leave that to my custom tube amplifier. The DA-9 will be my desktop amplifier. I have the DA-8s and am happy with it until I try to play at obscene volumes. Anything over 95db in my room is obscenely loud. There's a lot to be said about a company like SMSL that innovate with every iteration. I think the future is bright for the company. I just hope that sanctions won't be imposed on products from China for purely political reasons.

 

[Voxata]

I don't think China's political issues are the problem.