@ymlee. Have you tried other 2-ch DACs instead of the R7-HE? They will all sound dry and 2D compared to the Atmos simulator. You may just like the Atmos sound which is all about ambience and 3D space. Try a different brand DAC for a test but think they will give similar results.
The R7 or similar DACs do not have the processing capability to synthesize Atmos space. Just a simple FPGA.
And since you have a Krell amp can you connect Krell CAST to HE9 ACSS output? Instead of XLR. Same with R7HE to HE9 use ACSS. The dealer should be able supply cables. Much more dynamic/ lower noise. And best bass using the DI-20HE over I2S. The dealer has those as well. You are fortunate to be able to audition before purchasing. We all wish we had that luxury!
I only test Dolby Atmos on my existing dac Teac NT-505, bass do get better but still behind of R7He, and even ROON+Tidal is better than USB+Dolby Atmos. 3D effects was gone on Teac NT-505.
Btw, how you guys test the Dolby Atmos?
I just have to install Dolby Atmos for headphone into my PC and activate it, no additional hardware are required for the Dolby testing.
My Krell is KAV series, it did't come with CAST, if I am not mistaken, only FBP series or above come with CAST.
DI-20HE, the demo unit, already sold to another customer, and the dealer don't have stock right now T_T.
Another bad news for me is the dealer run out of stock for ACSS cable too, worse come to worse is Audio-gd already closed down for Chinese New Year. But somehow I managed to order ACSS cable from Magna Hifi which cost me 39 Euro, due to Magna is located at the other side on Earth and I need it urgently, the courier alone cost me another 75 Euro, and the ACSS cable should be arrived on next Monday, hope there is good result for the ACSS.
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