Highfive99
100+ Head-Fier
The ESS 9018S in my Weiss 204 is f'ing incredible. In a totally different league to the dual 9038Pro chips used in the Gustard X26pro I had been using with a DDC, OCXO and fancy fuses. In fact Weiss uses a single 9038Pro in their $21k Helios. Weiss wouldn't use ESS products if they couldn't deliver the SQ that Weiss demands and their units are known for. So Yeah, ESS can create a sound stage with unbelievable clarity, vibrance, depth of field of soundstage and stunning localization of instruments and vocals.Who ever said the ESS chipset cannot create a soundstage or liquid midrange?
I also find it interesting that most higher end DAC's do not need nor even have a provision for a master clock. I was a clock fan but now I just can't see spending a few thousand on a clock to make a $1k -$2k or whatever DAC sound better. Just take that few thousand and buy a better DAC.