Apogee Duet Firewire against Duet II USB

[Micha]

Thinking about upgrading my Apogee Duet Firewire against the new Duet II with USB. Do you think there will be a difference between them both (beside the 192/24 of the new Duet II) or in other words - did anyone compare them both so far ?
 
Thanks very much !

 

[Curly21029]

I've been meaning to write some more impressions of how these compare, but here's a quick take.
 
Comparing the two as DACs, the Duet 2 exhibits greater extension, particularly in the treble range.  Both seem to exhibit the same level of detail, but they're more apparent with the Duet 2.  The original Duet sounds a bit smoother and the notes sound rounder while the Duet 2 is more analytical and true to the content.  I never noticed any imaging shortcomings with the original, but the Duet 2 does seem to up the pinpoint placement factor to a noticeable degree.  At the end of the day, they're both fantastic.  Critical listeners should opt for the Duet 2 while those looking to just sit back and enjoy should opt for the original.  I fall into the former category and, although I would still be happy if I kept the original, once I got to compare both extensively in-home I found myself wanting what the Duet 2 offered.  To me it was a relative "upgrade," but since both are great performers it should generally be though of as a side-grade while some tastes may even render it a downgrade.
 
The application I would definitely recommend the Duet 2 for over the original, however, is if one intends to use it as a DAC/amp combo.  The original Duet's headphone out is by no means bad, but the Duet 2's is leagues more expansive with a surprisingly decently sized soundstage, fantastic separation, punch (especially in the bass) that trounces the original, and a completely grain-free presentation.  The fact that Apogee was able to coax so much performance out of such a small form factor is exceedingly impressive.  It doesn't beat having a dedicated amp, but I could live with it as an all in one solution and do so with a smile on my face.

 

[Micha]

Thank you very much for your impressions - really helpful !
 
Think I will sell my Duet and go for the Duet 2 

 
 

 

[Curly21029]

 
Quote:

Thank you very much for your impressions - really helpful !
 
Think I will sell my Duet and go for the Duet 2 

 
 

Think on it carefully, my friend.  Had I not heard the Duet 2 I would still be perfectly happy with the original... and would still be happy if financial limitations were a factor.  It's doubtful that you can find a Duet 2 used, so expect to pay the full $600 price tag. (plus tax and/or shipping if necessary)  If you're getting rid of the Duet, you're only going to be able to recoup between $300-350. (such a steal at that price, IMO, but that's what they go for used)
 
For someone who owns neither but considering both, I'd say the $100 premium is worth it.  For the $300 disparity, it becomes extremely subjective.