OK. The M Scaler is going back. It robs from the DAVE in my set up. I'm not crazy. After hours of listening, it is SO clear that the M Scaler upscales the sound in a plastic way for me. Susvara hears it and doesn't let it get away with it. I don't know.
If I were running TT2 and powering Susvara with internal amp, maybe that would be fine with M Scaler. But with my setup, the M Scaler robs the sound when paired with DAVE and even the TT2.
Sinnerman is the revealing track that makes all the truth bold and known for me. Nina's vocals. The harsh claps. The drums. The bass. The piano. The vocals are most noticeably sacrificed. It doesn't hit and pierce like it should. M Scaler veils it. Makes the track sound like it is wrapped in plastic wrap.
DAVE KILLS IT. Solo. And makes the track shine in a way I've never heard before.
It actually makes all tracks shine, and the negative effects of the M Scaler aren't always heard, and there are benefits for sure on low res tracks. But those are marginal most of the time. I don't think this is worth it and will be selling one if anyone wants to buy.