Ok here is a short review so far what I have..
Hardware:
I adopted the modding path,as component sourcing at one piece per unit is difficult.
I am using a bantam dac , modded with capacitors, added better ferrites and some multilayers capacitors.
Setup
DAC >yamaha AVR inbuilt stereo amp>diy bookshelf with recession buster kit
The op-amp stage etc on hang as explained above.
i tried 2 -3 crystals from different sources , no drastic
changes .. revert back to the stock crystal. VCXO and
fully square clock mods are on list in future.
The review could have been appropriate if playback was done in a respectable stereo system.
Software:
XMPLAY with WASAPI in exclusive mode enabled.
I am using Vista HP in sony vaio laptop.
Sound so far:
(i am a semi-audiophile, you can consider a beginner)
To compare first i listened to laptop inbuilt realtek soundcard then
I switch to the dac mode ,first observation :subtle layers of detail sneak out .
I can hear good instrument separation, widened sound stage. Definitely listenable
for beginners,the DAC is a little sharp sounding in some type of music. I observed
that the bell type of instruments sound very real ,some percussion instruments reveal
and sound natural.
The dynamics are not that great , will improve after the op-amp circuit added .Situation
is improved with Izotope dsp room correction,but this make the unit a little forward sounding .
I am using FLAC as well as some 320kbps mp3s, Some tracks i listened worth mentioning:
Alison Krauss "In the palm of your hand" (320k mp3) her marvelous voice appearing smooth and
clear , some percussion instruments like small wooden ticks i can clearly hear. A wide 'sound stage'
gives a more entertaining listening experience.
Allan Taylor " Scotty"(FLAC), acceptabe piano representation in the background.
Played "First Cut is Deepest "(FLAC) Sheryl crow , the wood resonance of acoustic guitar , sound of nylon
strings etc are noticable.
After adding Fiio as buffer:
To add a buffer Fiio headphone amp output can be used The Fiio o/p is not line level , but for tests i am using it. It helps to improve the dynamics, voices get better texture etc ....
Thatz all for now.
I will mod and review time to time.
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