I think you're right. I'm sure the R-28 can be likewise customised but didn't even think to ask. I'm running my Elear in high gain (+17dB) on 40 and it's very comfortable moderate volume with acoustic guitar currently playing, so either I'm deaf or you have supersonic hearing!
I've only started experimenting with this. Most (more experienced) users suggest NOS mode would be closer to the 'warm, organic' sound of the R2R-11, while OS tends to be more neutral and resolving. I've currently got mine set to OS 8x and find it both musical and resolving, certainly more detail and finesse than the R2R-11, although I'm not sure if that's a factor of OS or the better components inside the R-28. Probably a bit of both. When I switched to NOS I did hear a few very soft pops on occasion (when starting a track or switching sample rates), and any 'hiss' in a recording was also more pronounced. I guess OS cleans these sorts of 'artefacts' up at the cost of slightly more clinical sound.
Audible as it is a relay volume like the whole audio-gd line-up (except r2r 11 and nfb-11).
It’s audible but I prefer it that way. Far more accurate, can make minor tweaks, can always get back to a specific volume, can accurately compare levels between headphones and outputs, and zero channel imbalance. I don’t hear the clicks while changing volume during playback, but I like the tactile feedback.
In my experience, for the price, there is very little to rival the R-28. Even for more money you’re normally only buying an equivalent amp, not an all-in-one. Form, features and functionality all superb. As always it depends what you’re after, what you’re listening with etc.
Thanks for your input.
You’ve already got a stellar amp in the V281, so the R-28 is not going to do anything for you amp-wise. As for dacs, some prefer the more clinical DS sound while others like myself prefer the more organic R2R ladder sound. If you’re only interested in the dac part of the R-28, consider getting an Audio-gd R2R-1, which is the same dac that’s in the R-28. As for synergy, my R-28 is superb with the LCD-3 and Elear, so I have no doubt it would be an excellent match for your other headphones as well. You’d have to ask others or try it for yourself to be sure - trust none but your own ears!
I wouldn’t worry. The ‘stack’ has some advantages too, like separate discrete power supplies for the amp and dac, more inputs and outputs, and NOS/OS front panel controls. The sound will be virtually identical, so you’re not missing out on anything.Thank you for the detail insight. I bought the NFB-1AMP about a year ago & got myself the R2R-1 just recently. R-28 was released after a week I received the R2R-1. I feel bad at first, knowing that it's cheaper, newer and could be better than the stack.
Well there are still pros & cons on both. Guess I can live with it
I'm interested in both the amp section and the DAC. I'm one of those that like to experiment and try everything.You’ve already got a stellar amp in the V281, so the R-28 is not going to do anything for you amp-wise. As for dacs, some prefer the more clinical DS sound while others like myself prefer the more organic R2R ladder sound. If you’re only interested in the dac part of the R-28, consider getting an Audio-gd R2R-1, which is the same dac that’s in the R-28. As for synergy, my R-28 is superb with the LCD-3 and Elear, so I have no doubt it would be an excellent match for your other headphones as well. You’d have to ask others or try it for yourself to be sure - trust none but your own ears!
So what does the R-28 do better than other amps / dacs that you've owned.
