I got you fam
@DecentLevi-
I have owned the DAC 19 for some time, then from there went to the Young DAC (which is delta sigma and I much preferred it). Some time later I got to hear other R2R’s (Yggy, Kitune Spring, EAD ect ect)
SO-
i DONT like the kind of R2Rs that have the analogue sound that is distant (feels like 50 rows back in soundstage.... ok some exaggeration), soft edges, and “chill” sounding musical.
i DO like the R2R’s that can retain that edge to the music, are engaging and pull you in (yggy, Spring ) and still stay musical...
the Amber III is 100% the latter of what I do like in a DAC. It’s engaging to the point that I was glued to it. It’s fast sounding, edgy, “musical” and for me that means PRAT plus more... the bass was tight and realistic. It’s like everything was etched out and not bloated. I was able to make out words to TOOL music way easier (not easy since Maynard isn’t the most clear to begin with, coupled with an almost muddy sound around him). Just everything was fun and enjoyable with it.
so, this is not a chill listen IMO. I wouldn’t sip wine and listen to this DAC. It makes me want to drink beer and rage. Who knows I might punch a whole in my wall while listening?
the thing is- I haven’t stopped thinking about it after demoing it. I tried going back to my Young DAC and music isn’t the same. I miss the detail. I miss how freakin clear it all sounds. I got a bonus coming late Dec and I am between buying this DAC or buying a much needed new bed...
Hope this helps at all. If not, then I at least got to vent.
Cool to get your reply. I think I've seen you around here somewhere before(?)
So you like DACs that are engaging and pull you in. Me also I love the effect of being pulled deep into the scene akin to the Holo Audio 3 I tried a few times, but moreso with the Hugo 2. Have you tried that or even its' big brother Hugo TT2, and if so any words on a vague comparison between those and the Amber 3?
You do say it retains that edge to the music, sounding fast and tight. So detailed but does that also mean harsh or fatiguing? While I also like an edge and deep into the scene sound, I also like a more laid back sound at times. I like rock, techno, world music, etc. but also some retro pop and smooth jazz for instance so I wonder if it really is a jack of all trades DAC? If I use it with a tube amp, will tube rolling be able to substantially change the signature for the occasion that I do prefer more of a laid back, moderately distant sound?
Also anybody know the type of / how many DAC chips this uses?
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