Audio Mirror Wave DAC and Aries-Cerat Helene DAC


I am looking for a new DAC.  Has anyone listened to both of these DAC's and been able to compare them.  I have done a lot of research but not heard either one.  The Aries-Cerat Helene uses 16 AD1865N-K classic R2R chips with chokes and double relocked massive chases weighing about 90lbs.  The Audio mirror wave DAC uses 4 newly released ROHM chips dual mono with chokes and transformers.  Both DACS are nicely built with high-end parts.  The Aries-Cerat's tubes can get pricey while the WAVE is lesser and more common.  Both has glowing reviews.  

brbrock

Even though I have had the Helene in my system for a couple of months now, life stuff has gotten in the way of a deeper dive of what I am hearing compared to other DACs I have owned.  Unfortunately, I have never heard one of the Audio Mirror DACs so I cannot respond directly to your question.  

Compared to the Mojo Audio’s Mystique X SE NCZ, which I still own and still have in my system, the Helene (at almost twice the price) moves the needle closer to neutral while still displaying the natural (non-digital) sound that I enjoy from the Mystique X SE.  I perceive a bit more clarity in the upper frequencies while still providing well-saturated tonal qualities and prodigious deep bass, but without an overly apparent mid-bass boost.  It is a very enjoyable DAC to listen to on all types of music, and certainly one of the two best sounding DACs I have owned, if not the best.  

@brbrock 

I have a Helene. Glorious sounding. Music just sounds real; it produces a very wide soundstage. If you are looking for analytical, Helene is not for you. If you are looking for 'the singer is in my room', then Helene is your choice. Also, you can adjust the tube bias to suit your taste. I'm not aware of any other DACs offering this.

Best of luck!