Schiit DACs (Bifrost and Gungnir down, one to go)? The information and anticipation thread.

[mab1376]

just ordered a non-usb Bifrost

 
order number: 1366

 

[Rebel975]

just ordered a non-usb Bifrost

order number: 1366

What I instantly thought of: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGA_1366

 

[mab1376]

I actually have one of those sockets in my PC 

 

[GeorgeNapalm]

Order #1297 shipped! Can't wait
 

 

[IcedTea]

#1290 shipped too  
 
My valhalla has been lonely.. 

 

[Raptor34]

Got mine this morning, check it out.
 

 

[Maxvla]

Looks like Schiit is clearing backorders right on schedule. Nicely done. Now let's see some info on the next levels! I can be only so patient

 

[HiroPro]

I'm thinking heavily about purchasing this DAC. I'm also thinking of picking up Kingwa's Digital Interface USB for $140 bucks. It ends up being only $40 bucks more to add USB over the Bifrost USB option.
 
Opinions?
 
Also how does this DAC compare to Kingwa's [size=x-small]NFB-10SE or other lower priced Audio Gd gear?[/size]

 

[TWIFOSP]

Received mine today and it's dead on arrival.  No power no lights.

 

[Jason Stoddard]

Quote:

Received mine today and it's dead on arrival.  No power no lights.

Already replied. Sorry for the inconvenience. We'll get another one out to you on Monday and reimburse your shipping.

 

[TWIFOSP]

Electronics fail, but it's how you handle it that matters.  And in that regard I must say this fast of a response on a Saturday is excellent customer service.  Thanks Jason!
 
Quote:

Already replied. Sorry for the inconvenience. We'll get another one out to you on Monday and reimburse your shipping.

 

 

[olor1n]

Quote:

I'm thinking heavily about purchasing this DAC. I'm also thinking of picking up Kingwa's Digital Interface USB only for $140 bucks. It ends up being only $40 bucks more to add USB over the Bifrost USB option.
 
Opinions?
 
Also how does this DAC compare to Kingwa's [size=x-small]NFB-10SE or other lower priced Audio Gd gear?[/size]

The Bifrost trumps the 10SE in treble presentation and sense of "air". It has a smoothness in this region where the 10SE (starting in the upper mid range) could sound dry and ultimately fatiguing at times. Details are slightly accentuated by the Bifrost, giving a different view point to the mid and bass centric signature of the 10SE. The Bifrost seems more transparent as a result, though I do at times yearn for the weight, slam and dynamics of the 10SE sound. A mix of the 10SE's and Bifrost's strengths would be ideal, but that sound seems reserved for dearer and higher end components.

 

[leesure]

I have both the Bifrost and a 10SE, and as a DAC it's no contest. The Bifrost wins hands down. The 10SE's value lies in an all-in-one DAC/Amp that can drive orthos.  The Bifrost/Lyr is better but costs $400 more. The 10SE is a good all-around performer but lacks the refinement of the Schiit combo. 

 

[HiroPro]

I just love the name
 
ROTFL
 
I'm going to get the product just because of the bloody name!!!
 
ROTFL
 
Do you think Kingwa's USB option is better than getting the Bifrost with USB? It's only $50 bucks more...
 
A lot of highend boutique gear uses fancy European names even though the company is owned and EEs last name is say...
 
SMITH
 
LOL
 
It's a great way to make fun of that BS!

 

[HiroPro]

Quote:

I have both the Bifrost and a 10SE, and as a DAC it's no contest. The Bifrost wins hands down. The 10SE's value lies in an all-in-one DAC/Amp that can drive orthos.  The Bifrost/Lyr is better but costs $400 more. The 10SE is a good all-around performer but lacks the refinement of the Schiit combo. 

I wonder how much of that is due to the analog output section and HF amp, in particular the tubes. How does the Lyr compare to the solid-state headphone amp? I'm curious if a balanced output stage DAC is in the works as I'm going to be using it for a HT rig that doubles for two channel.
 
I'm curious about the output stage from the AKM4399 to the single ended outs... Personally I think this is the most important thing and what gives most gear it's signature sound. Well this stage and it's relationship with the input stage on the amplifier. This is also why the Burson 160 also interests me. I've heard Kingwa's cheaper DACs and 10SE and was very very impressed so I'm really surprised to hear owners of 10SE and this Schiit piece feeling the Schiit is better...
 
LOL
 
I laugh everytime I mention the name ehh... and the Moto/tag line is PERFECT
 
I guess at this point "I ain't gunna believe this Schiit!" until I hear it...
 
 
Currently I have the buggy UMC-1 but I will be replacing it with XMC-1 this summer when it ships as well as an ATI AT2007. XMC-1 is a fully differential pre/pro end to end and also has balanced ins (with TacT DRC!) so I could actually warrant a more expensive differential version. The ATI amps are also true differentials end to end. I'd bet money the Schiit boys know that though as they did work for vendors that use Morris Kessler pieces/modules customized and/or stenciled.