Hi Metrum owners!
I do not want to talk badly in any way about Metrum's new DAC3 modules,
I understand that all of us audiophiles have different tastes, some like analytical sound, others a little warmer sound.
What I write below is what we personally thought about DAC2 vs DAC3,
I encourage everyone who is thinking of buying the DAC3 modules to do so and test to form their own opinion..
unfortunately the modules were not our cup of tea.
We are three hifi friends who all own Pavane L3 and Adagio.
I only listen through speakers, my other two friends mostly listen to Stax electrostatic headphones (OMEGA)
we all three ordered the new DAC3 modules.
before we critically start listening, we let the new modules burn in for several days.
My modules had been running for more than two weeks. 24/7
we listened to each other's stereo systems to get as nuanced a "picture" as possible.
This is what all three of us thought about the sound:
The DAC 3 modules presents a large soundstage with a lot of microdetail with warmth and a improved bass responce, but is lacking in the lower midrange.
Voices sound thin and the sound can sometimes sound a bit harsch. we all three really missed the lush midrange from the DAC 2 modules.
Similar to the difference between a pure copper cable vs. a silver plated one. DAC2 sounds more copper, and DAC3 more in the silver direction.
yes .. it's hard to describe. but you probably understand what I mean.
neither of us decided to keep DAC3
however it was worth testing the new modules, because it is difficult to just read in forums what others think, you have to test yourself to get an idea