Audio GD NFB-11.28 vs R2R 11

[motberg]

I wonder if possible for Kingwa to make this as just a DAC, with upgraded USB input standard (maybe i2s as optional input), no headphones output or preamp volume control. I think this would not only reduce the cost a bit ($499 target would be nice..jejejeje), but the added simplicity may further enhance the clarity, dynamics and tonal resolution.

 

[FredA]

Two other remarks on the mkii:

1. It seems that it will be possible to remove the botton to have access to the pcb without desoldering anything, for DIYers who will want to tweak the unit. I won't do it myself.

2. The unit can be switched between 120 and 240V operation, like the di20.

 

[FredA]

I wonder if possible for Kingwa to make this as just a DAC, with upgraded USB input standard (maybe i2s as optional input), no headphones output or preamp volume control. I think this would not only reduce the cost a bit ($499 target would be nice..jejejeje), but the added simplicity may further enhance the clarity, dynamics and tonal resolution.

He would need new front and back plates, otherwise not sure if more than 3 outputs are possible but i2s is possible. It's a good idea. If many ask for it, Kingwa will likely do it. Ideally, some pcb changes would be needed as no power transistor are needed for a dac and no relay to switch between pre and headphone either.

 

[FredA]

My order is placed already. I should give my first impressions in about 3 weeks.

 

[FredA]

The new r2r 11 will allow me to sell my Intona, i will have no more use for it. And i will possibly sell my original r2r 11. Not sure.

Also worth mentioning, the output stage was improved in the process, and new ultra-low noise psus for digital circuits were integrated into the design. Combined with the Crysteks, we can hope for improved low-end response and even better staging. My own experience adding the Crysteks to my unit went in this direction.

And last but not least, the ladder volume control will be more transparent than the rk27 pot. And will provide much better channel balance.

 

[gimmeheadroom]

Just checked Magna HiFi, from whom I bought 2 past AGD DACs. The R2R 11 is out of stock. It's not listed as out of stock on Audio GD's website--but the distinction means little if they won't respond to repeated emails (meaning I can't buy one from them).

If it was in stock at Magna HiFi, their price of 348 Euros is ~$75 over AGD's USD price of $350 (not incl. shipping), a 15% bump. I had 2 great experiences buying from Magna HiFi, but that's a steep fee for the convenience of dealing w/them vs Audio GD.

So the new R11 MK2 is available from Kingwa and it looks like a worthy upgrade, but it costs. There is an Audio-gd dealer for America, check Kingwa's site for the link.

For Europe, Magna is a good choice. I have gotten good service from them including where they helped me get a firmware fix in about a week. They can charge premiums over Audio-gr prices because the shipping is very high from China and we get killed on imports. Magna ships for 10 euros or something like that and we don't pay ransom because they're inside the EU.

 

[PopZeus]

I wonder if possible for Kingwa to make this as just a DAC, with upgraded USB input standard (maybe i2s as optional input), no headphones output or preamp volume control. I think this would not only reduce the cost a bit ($499 target would be nice..jejejeje), but the added simplicity may further enhance the clarity, dynamics and tonal resolution.

A-gd used to have an R2 DAC but it was discontinued. I think the fully balanced, and more expensive R1 ended up being a lot more popular.

 

[Dailydrive]

Possible to replace Amanero384 for i2s input on new r2r mkii ?

 

[FredA]

If the mkii is as good i as i think it can be, it could be at the center of a great budget main system for poeple are there with limited space and budget.

Possible to replace Amanero384 for i2s input on new r2r mkii ?

Most likely, but email Kingwa to confirm.

 

[Dailydrive]

If the mkii is as good i as i think it can be, it could be at the center of a budget main system for poeple are there with limited space and budget.

Most likely, but email Kingwa to confirm.

Thank you FredA

 

[capetownwatches]

The new r2r 11 will allow me to sell my Intona, i will have no more use for it. And i will possibly sell my original r2r 11. Not sure.

Also worth mentioning, the output stage was improved in the process, and new ultra-low noise psus for digital circuits were integrated into the design. Combined with the Crysteks, we can hope for improved low-end response and even better staging. My own experience adding the Crysteks to my unit went in this direction.

And last but not least, the ladder volume control will be more transparent than the rk27 pot. And will provide much better channel balance.

Looks like Kingwa has made some meaningful upgrades to the venerable R2R-11.
Well worth the extra scratch.

Looking forward to early-adopter @FredA impressions!

 

[FredA]

Looks like Kingwa has made some meaningful upgrades to the venerable R2R-11.
Well worth the extra scratch.

Looking forward to early-adopter @FredA impressions!

I have a really good idea already.

In my current office setup, i use the old r2r 11 with an intona for usb isolation and my amanero has the Crysteks. What i don't have is the relay volume control and the latest and greatest digital psus.

Overall, with the improvments i made gave a more relaxed and focused sound. With better staging. Depending on the setup, the usb isolator can be required or not, in my case, it made a real difference with the streamer i used (Usbridge) . As for better clocking, it is always a good thing.

Although Kingwa's pot volume control is the best implementation i came across, a relay unit will make the sound less colored and more transparent.

In reality, for those owning the old unit, ordering an amanero with Crystek will give a great upgrade already. This is not an easy swap, room is tight

For difficult headphones, the new unit is expected to perform better. With easy to drive headphones, like the mdr-7506 and the K-553, and even the Sundaras, the original is flawless. It struggles a bit with more demanding planars, with unforgiving sound signature. Looking forward to trying the new unit with them! This shortcoming is easy for me to spot as i own the he9, which can drive anything without effort.

 

[FredA]

The r2r 11 mkii is in the house.

The sound is already excellent. It drives my Music Master E1000s without effort.

It has a blacker background than the original, with cleaner/smoother sound. The amp seems to have better control over the mentioned headphones. Otherwise, it's the same old buddy, only much bigger!

It pairs also really well with the Music Master planar closed-back. Love this combination. Mine are with sheepskin earpads. This makes the sound less bright.

 

[FredA]

This is it:

 

[Pharmaboy]

Has anyone used this new unit as a preamp? If yes, does the output voltage vary according to hi vs lo gain settings?