What do you think about this setup?

[Pidgeon]

Hello, I'm going to build a new system, and I need your experience

.

Let's begin by saying that currently this is my setup:

FLAC -> SB Live! 5.1 -> SONY MDR-V150

which I consider to be real high-end (in fact it comes to an end).

Anyway, I just wanted to step-up, and by reading many comments and reviews, I decided this would have been my next setup:

FLAC -> ESI Juli@ -> Cambridge Audio 840C -> AMB Audio Beta22 Balanced -> APureSound V3 Balanced -> Sennheiser HD-650

Here are some informations:

- I like to listen to different genres of music. Particularly I like Classical music (but I listen to Electronica, Rock, Metal and Jazz, too).
- I would use the 840C only as DAC (I would listen to music only by playing FLAC files through my PC).
- I would compose music by using my PC as DAW.
- I wouldn't have any chance to listen to this setup.

I've chosen the ESI Juli@ because it offers a good technology for audio production (ASIO, GSIF, etc.). Plus, its digital output equal in quality the one from the LynxTwo, as you can read here:

ESI Juli@ – Professional Sound Card

Many people consider the HD-650 to be one of the best headphones in the world, when properly amplified, and this is enough for me.

I'm studying electronics, so I should be able to build a Beta22

.

I am trying to decide between Benchmark DAC1 and Cambridge 840C, but almost everyone seems to find the 840C to be better than the DAC1 when using the HD-650 and a proper headphone amp.

I am trying to decide between APureSound V3, Zu Mobius and Stefanaudioart Equinox. It seems that APureSound V3 is easier to buy and cheaper than the other cables.

I think there could be a very good sinergy between the elements of this chain.

So, What would you think about my setup?

Eventually, what would you suggest me between the following, and why:

- Cambridge Audio 840C / Benchmark DAC1
- APureSound V3 / Zu Mobius / Stefanaudioart Equinox

Thanks to those who will help me!

.

 

[johnwmclean]

Hi Pidgeon,

I wouldn’t get the Cambridge Audio 840C or Benchmark DAC1. I strongly recommend the the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC, it will wipe the floor against both. It is “maybe” the best DAC in existence full stop. I like my Cambridge Audio 840C a lot, I haven’t heard the Benchmark DAC1 enough to pass judgement.
I confess also I haven’t heard the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC, but from all accounts and listening impressions that I’ve read - it’s a killer. I will order mine when available again, usually the kits sellout within minutes of becoming available. This is there website:
Twisted Pear Audio
and the forum:
http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f6/twi...re-dac-317919/

The Beta 22 balanced, well you’re on the money there. SOTA, absolutely beautiful. Designed with the HD600 and HD650 in mind, they are a match in heaven.

I use SAA cable, I haven’t heard the other cables you’ve listed. Frankly at this level your splitting hairs all are excellent I should imagine, it gets down to personal taste.

I don’t understand why you need the ESI Juli@, bits is bits, digital output from you pc/mac straight to your DAC should be perfect.

So therefore my recommendation:

FLAC -> Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC -> Beta 22 balanced -> Cable of your choice -> HD650.

Absolute magic, it will be so resolving, effortless and transparent. You should not have a problem with different music genres either, it will be pretty neutral from the source. EQ problems and issues regarding components favouring a certain genre are usually found in lower fi products.

This is my current set-up:

WAV -> Cambridge Audio 840c -> Beta 22 balanced -> SAA Cable -> HD650.

Magic as well, even better once the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC is completed. I use WAV as I’m on a mac.

Let me know if you need anymore advice. Hope this helps somewhat.
You seem to have homed in on I really good system

John

 

[mrarroyo]

I have listened to the Benchmark DAC and did not care for it. Rather have a cheaper Oritek V4.1, or a Monarchy NM24. I realize the rage is to go balance, but it just about doubles the price.

If you need a balance configuration go for it, but it will come at a premium price.

I have had the opportunity to listen to many cables, most with an HD600. The APureSound cable is IMO the one which offered the best overall sound (soundstage, clarity, detail, and extension). Regardless, it looks like you will be buying very top of the line equipment and I hope you enjoy it.

 

[tintin47]

That is a hell of a step up from what you have now. Wow. The only recommendation I will make, as I don't know much about the DACs and the amp you picked is amazing (waiting to build one right now) is on the phones. I would read up about the 600-650 differences. IMO the 600 is the better all rounder, so you should give it a shot. The 650 properly amped is amazing, but it is a little dark for my taste to be an all rounder.

 

[Yikes]

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnwmclean /img/forum/go_quote.gif Hi Pidgeon, I wouldn’t get the Cambridge Audio 840C or Benchmark DAC1. I strongly recommend the the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC, it will wipe the floor against both. It is the best DAC in existence full stop. I like my Cambridge Audio 840C a lot, I haven’t heard the Benchmark DAC1 enough to pass judgment. I confess also I haven’t heard the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC, but from all accounts and listening impressions that I’ve read - it’s a killer. I will order mine when available again, usually the kits sellout within minutes of becoming available. This is there website: Twisted Pear Audio and the forum: http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f6/twisted-pear-buffalo-sabre-dac-317919/

Why do people on Head-Fi insist on recommending things that they have never heard? This DAC might be the second coming, but until I've heard it I wouldn't be recommending it in such strong terms. It likely will end up being another FOTM in the DIY community. The problem with listening to peoples opinions about their own DIY projects is that it's human nature to love ones own children, and if you built it isn't it your baby? Until there are many positive opinions posted by people who have heard, but not built a DIY product the products performance should be suspect. Quote:

Originally Posted by johnwmclean /img/forum/go_quote.gif I don’t understand why you need the ESI Juli@, bits is bits, digital output from you pc/mac straight to your DAC should be perfect.

Bits are unfortunately not always bits, that being said I have no idea concerning the effectiveness of this product. Quote:

Originally Posted by johnwmclean /img/forum/go_quote.gif So therefore my recommendation: FLAC -> Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC -> Beta 22 balanced -> Cable of your choice -> HD650. Absolute magic, it will be so resolving, effortless and transparent. You will not have a problem with different music genres either, it will be neutral from source. EQ problems and issues regarding components favouring a certain genre are usually found in lower fi products. This is my current set-up: WAV -> Cambridge Audio 840c -> Beta 22 balanced -> SAA Cable -> HD650. Magic as well, even better once the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC is completed. I use WAV as I’m on a mac. Let me know if you need anymore advice. Hope this helps somewhat. You seem to have homed in on I really good system John

My recommendation is to go somewhere and be sure to audition a set of HD-650's, I've owned both 600 & 650's and ultimately found them wanting. Some people find them veiled and un-involving. YMMV

DAC1 (I've also owned and found wanting) is an OK DAC but possibly one of the most overrated products in all of audio. Getting a 840C when you don't listen to CD's is silly. The word on the street is that Cambridge Audio will soon announce a new big brother to the DacMagic (DacMagic is based on the digital section of the 740 CD player) that will be based on the digital section of the 840. That might be the ticket.

My advice is to try and actually listen to as many different systems as possible, it's your opinion that matters. Remember a recommendation is worth what you pay for it.

 

[Uncle Erik]

I don't know why you'd buy a CD player just for the DAC.

Anyhow, if you're going to DIY your amp, you should probably DIY the rest of the system, too. I haven't heard the Buffalo DAC, but it could be a strong performer. Same with the RAKK DAC over at K&K Audio. Building your own will save you money over buying a commercial unit.

I'd also build a balanced cable for the Sennheisers. I don't know if you're a cable believer or not, but I bought two aftermarked Sennheiser cables (the Cardas and the Blue Dragon) and find zero difference in the sound. They're physically nice but not worth anywhere what they cost. I'd skip the reviews of whatever cable is trendy, order some wire, Techflex and jacks, and then roll your own balanced cable for $20 or $30.

With the money you save, I'd strongly recommend picing up another pair or two of headphones. You'd probably appreciate a DT880, RS-1 or K-501 to run alongside the Senns. I think you'd get much, much more from a second or third pair of cans than you would spending that money on a cable.

 

[number1sixerfan]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yikes /img/forum/go_quote.gif Why do people on Head-Fi insist on recommending things that they have never heard? This DAC might be the second coming, but until I've heard it I wouldn't be recommending it in such strong terms.

I think you hit it on the money with the second part. I think it's nothing wrong with suggesting someone take a look at something given information at hand(even without hearing it). It's when people sound so absolute and strong in their recommendation of something they haven't heard where it just doesn't make much sense at all.

If someone was looking for a sub-$1000 dac with a brighter and analytical sound to use with a tube amp and hd650's, I'd suggest that maybe want to take a look at the Benchmark(even though I haven't heard it). However, that is entirely different from me saying that the Benchmark swipes the floor with any other sub-$1000 dac. That's just my $.02 and everyone has theirs...

But anways, to the OP if you really want to settle with the Sennhieser house sound, I would suggest the Zana Duex(if you decided not to DIY). I have never heard the HD650 or HD600 sound better. If I wanted these to be my ultimate cans, I would pick the ZD without a doubt. I also agree with Uncle Erik about picking up a second set of cans. There is nothing wrong with having only one, but adding an additional set will provide contrast. Also, having a second set will mix things up and help prevent you from getting bored and the upgrade bug. Good luck.

 

[tk3]

I don't think anyone has heard the Buffalo32 yet, except a select few, since it hasn't shipped yet.
I'm not at all a technical buff, but what interests me in the Buffalo (besides the good specs in THD / dynamic range), is that apparently it's very easy on what you use as a transport with the integrated reclocking and all that.
I recall that Russ/Brian have said that they experienced no noticeable drawbacks using USB compared to S/PDIF.
That's great for whoever wants an easy setup by feeding it USB, or having multiple inputs with whatever you want.

I'm working towards the same setup as johnwmclean mentioned, but with L3000 instead of a HD650.

 

[brat]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pidgeon /img/forum/go_quote.gif I think there could be a very good sinergy between the elements of this chain.

Very bravely

 

[johnwmclean]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yikes /img/forum/go_quote.gif Why do people on Head-Fi insist on recommending things that they have never heard? This DAC might be the second coming, but until I've heard it I wouldn't be recommending it in such strong terms. It likely will end up being another FOTM in the DIY community. The problem with listening to peoples opinions about their own DIY projects is that it's human nature to love ones own children, and if you built it isn't it your baby? Until there are many positive opinions posted by people who have heard, but not built a DIY product the products performance should be suspect.

Ok yeah, I came on too strong to be sure and shouldn’t recommend sound unheard

And agreed DIY’s do get impassioned with their projects and may form biased opinions.

IMHO though since the OP is confident with building a Beta 22, it would make sense to try and seek a DIY DAC of equivalent value.

I recommend to investigate the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC as a possible candidate.

Here’s some more info regarding the Buffalo sabre32 DIY DAC

BuffaloDAC

 

[Yikes]

John, Ah..... I was hoping you'd come back all defensive and we could have a nice knock down drag out forum brawl, but instead you come back all reasonable and suck the wind right out of my sails. kudos to you.

I was on a ship in Portland Oregon for the Rose festival in 82 and a bunch of us got into a fight with a bunch of Aussies and we all got thrown out of that bar. We then proceeded to another bar and continued the fight. It's kind of blurry but I believe that we went into and got thrown out of 5 different bars with that group of Aussies that night. Ever since I've liked Australians. Even if you are a bunch a puffda's (Spelling?) [size=xx-small]Do I have to say that I'm kidding here? I spent two months working in Melbourne and this was by far the favorite slur thrown around by the locals that I was working with.[/size]

 

[Currawong]

It's "poofter". Insulting slang for a homosexual person, but used quite liberally as an insult.

I'm keen to know just how good the new Sabre 32-based Buffalo is as well.

 

[johnwmclean]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yikes /img/forum/go_quote.gif John, Ah..... I was hoping you'd come back all defensive and we could have a nice knock down drag out forum brawl, but instead you come back all reasonable and suck the wind right out of my sails. kudos to you.

Nice bait laying though... I like a good forum brawl as well as anyone... just don’t want to be at the brunt of one. Where the hell is PA, Poofter’s Anonymous

 

[Yikes]

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnwmclean /img/forum/go_quote.gif Nice bait laying though... I like a good forum brawl as well as anyone... just don’t want to be at the brunt of one. Where the hell is PA, Poofter’s Anonymous

Why yes, yes it is. Where I have the worlds largest collection of Gladiator films.

 

[johnwmclean]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yikes /img/forum/go_quote.gif Why yes, yes it is. Where I have the worlds largest collection of Gladiator films.

LOL