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@grannyring Bill thank you for the response. Regarding streaming I don't stream at all, but if I decide to do  so I can add a streamer and use the Neodio if I wanted as it is designed to allow for streaming input as well.

@facten You have an outstanding Neodio dac/cd player.  If you mostly spin CDs it is certainly a plus to have a great transport and dac built into the same piece.  No need for an extra power cord and digital cable.  Not sure how much streaming you would do? 

@facten The Tron really sounded good my system and we enjoyed it for a couple of years. Bottom line is the Galle is a very special piece that based on my listening experience transcends what I thought was possible from a dac. It delivers in spades on realism. No other piece of gear I have owned does realism at this level.
Yup, I am that over the moon with this piece. More muscular sounding than the Tron with a richness that is so engaging. You hear the resonate body of instruments that were previously missing or muted. I can honestly say one has to hear this in their system to fully grasp the experience it delivers.The Galle sorts out the simple and complex passages with an ease and flow that both captivates and relaxes you.

@grannyring  Bill, I'd be interested in any comparison comments your may have between the Cinnamon DAC and the Tron Signature DAC that you had and really liked. I auditioned the Tron at Colin's , and while it was a couple of years back I still remember it. Since I largely spin CDs I went at that time with the Neodio Origine S2 CD player as I preferred its DAC's slightly smoother sound than that of the Tron. Anyway, I'd appreciate any thoughts you have between the Cinnamon and the Tron.

 The biggest difference to me was in this one area; at lower volume levels, 40-50db average, the Galle sounded a little more vibrant and impactful. 

That's interesting. I wonder what it is that would be affect that? There is another thread going on where the listener can only listen at 50db, and he was looking for speaker recommendations, and I wondered if it was the speakers or the amp which caused lack of sound quality at lower SPL's, well maybe it is the source? 

Congratulations! Mates for life! 

Agreed! I will just move forward without a switch. I had an opportunity to listen the Cinnamon Audio Galle streamer over the last two days in my rig. I currently own an Innuos Pulsar which is really fantastic. It turns out both are actually priced about the same at around $8000 MSRP.

The comparison was interesting. The Galle streamer was used with both Roon and a Jriver. I preferred Roon’s feel and features, but felt Jriver sounded a little better. Jriver was a little more buttoned up/refined sounding during complex passages and sounded a bit cleaner with less digital “edginess” if you will. Improved purity of signal is another way to put it. Not a huge difference, but discernible to those who really care about such things.

Comparing the Pulsar to the Galle streamer proved interesting. The differences were not anything approaching day and night. Both units are really first rate and so enjoyable. I had a slight preference for the Galle in my system. However, remember I have the matching Galle dac. The Galle offered a bit more overall clarity while the Pulsar had a tad more scale and stage size. The Galle sounded more intimate while the Pulsar was less immediate sounding with the presentation set back a bit more. The biggest difference to me was in this one area; at lower volume levels, 40-50db average, the Galle sounded a little more vibrant and impactful. This was not really noticeable as the volume was turned up however (60 -80db). I listen at lower volume levels often so this difference, in my particular system, can be important.

I am not sure this comparison would play out the same way in another system. This is the nature of audio where different systems and preference play a huge role on what one prefers. I have decided to buy the Galle as I like it as much as I my Pulsar and it is the natural mate to my Galle dac! 

@grannyring

That’s an interesting shift in your setup. It sounds like the Innuos Pulsar changed how your network components interact, making some of the previous tweaks less necessary. And, to your preference Paul Pang cables appears to have a natural presentation.

I can understand the temptation of trying Tempus switch but I think your system is in that “Don’t mess with it” sweet spot.

Well, the Paul Pang LAN cable replaced the topline Network Acoustics cable in my system. It is a more relaxed and “at ease” sounding cable compared to the high resolution of the NA cable. That’s how I would describe the difference…at least in my rig.

As you know I am a big fan of the NA filters, switches and cables per my numerous posts over the years on their effectiveness. Since setting up my new system I found it sounded more to my liking without any ethernet switch or filter in place. This fact took me by surprise and still has me scratching my head. The Innuos Pulsar is the piece that brought on this change. It may be interesting to try the new NA Tempus switch I suppose, but I really like where the system is at right now.  

@grannyring

Looking forward to your impressions on Galle Transport. Also, would like to hear your thoughts on Paul Pang Audio PLATINUM M LAN CABLE. This cable reminds me of braided construction of Pink Faun Interlink LAN. I just added a pair of FTA Metis and loving the organic and detailed sound.

@jond Great minds think alike! Or guys with dirty hands, or something... 

Ha I missed the updates on this thread now I don't feel bad about saying it looked like a washbasin on Bill's system thread! That phono stage looks pretty sweet though.

LOL! His and hers, I totally agree! Make sure she doesn't feel left out!

I was going to say the phono stage kinda looks even more like a sink, as the tubes almost look like the faucet: 

I will be comparing the Cinnamon Audio streamer vs my Innuos Pulsar. The Pulsar costs about $2000 more so it will be interesting. I really like the Pulsar and Innuos Sense software so the Cinnamon has a real hurdle 🙂.

@mclinnguy it may be nice to have a double basin 🤣

@lalitk 

I am happy with what I have, mainly curious what these Cinnamon guys have done as far as the streaming taking into account the good reviews of their converters, and how it may compare with other streamers. Yes it is just an endpoint; not a server, so I assume Cinnamon would suggest Jplay/Qobuz would be the best choice?

A few on the Antipodes forum have been playing with Jplay, I have read it sounds fantastic, but most feel Squeeze is still the best option for sound quality, and it is free. About 10% of the time when I want the best resolution and am in the mood to tolerate the horrible UI I take the 7-8 seconds and flip the streamer over to squeeze from Roon. But yes, I hear Jplay is much nicer UI wise. I am looking forward to Audirvana integration with Antipodes later this year (fingers crossed).

But I am open to anything in the future, I have been building a second system, and don’t have a digital front end yet. I probably will not get end-game equipment to start it up, maybe just a converter with renderer, but years down the road if at some point I hear the Cinnamon converter and I am as impressed as grannyring is I think it is only natural to try their endpoint with it- of course my core is already on the K50 so all I would need is an endpoint in the second system.

For sure if you hear this Cinnamon digital pairing let me/us know how it is! And especially with the Eufrodites!

@mclinnguy

I am sure Galle Network Transport is optimized to deliver optimal performance when paired with their DAC. Personally, Galle Network Transport wouldn’t be my 1st choice if I am using a Roon app. I don’t want another ‘box’ on my network to run core. Interestingly, Galle Transport supports Qobuz streaming through UPnP which could provide a sublime experience with JPLAY app. During my two weeks trial, JPLAY app provided seamless integration of my Qobuz playlist and a very user friendly interface. The sound quality is among the very best and comparable to Innuos Sense App. IMHO, JPLAY probably the best app outside Roon.

I already spoken with Colin about auditioning Galle Model II with their Transport in near future. 

And yeah, the phono stage temptation is real if you’re into vinyl, but luckily that’s one rabbit hole you don’t have to go down. I just purchased my 3rd phono stage to try it out…lol!

What’s drawing you to the Galle transport, just curiosity or are you thinking it could bring something extra to your setup?

Maybe once the metal dust settles you may consider trying their network transport? Anyone heard this at Colin's? I assume he has it paired up with the DAC? 

I'm glad I don't have a turntable, or I might consider their phono stage. 

Perhaps others have a curiousity to hear it, hey @lalitk? 

https://cinnamonaudio.com/components/gallephono

Thank you @lalitk for your kind comments!

@grannyring 

Congratulations on your new home (room) setup. If I can be completely candid…what an incredible setup! I am somewhat envious of those folks who can get away with fewer pieces and still manage to get a great sound; something I have not able to achieve yet.

The Cinnamon Audio Galle DAC is a seriously refined piece, and pairing it with the WVL Sons and eXemplar Audio amp must create a beautifully natural and dynamic sound. It’s inspiring to hear that this is the most enjoyable system you’ve put together. Isn’t it always extraordinary when everything just clicks. 

I see you went full Monty on SDFB :-) 

@mclinnguy lol! 

Thanks for updating your system- nice to see pictures of it in a real environment. 

I am just waiting for someone to put on the top of a rack like yours, put a fake faucet above it, post it in a designer magazine and ask for comments about their $12K "high end sink"

Seriously though, I am jealous- enjoy! 

Well I have the Cinnamon Audio dac in my system now.  It has some 80 hours on it thus far and I am just elated with the sound of my system.  I told Colin the Galle is the most enjoyable and “perfect” sounding piece of audio electronics I have owned or heard in my system.  I could write several pages of superlatives, but I will save that for a review I plan to post. Not ever experienced such a radical progression towards realism and tonal richness with a piece of gear.  It is the heart of my system and just so much fun.   

@grannyring That is impressive that all are going to Gestalt. You must be very excited! Keep us informed.

@hchilcoat

Congrats on your New Audio Frontiers gear! Heard them several times with the WVL Sons at Colin’s and man they sound great together.

The Galle dacs shown on the Cinnamon Audio Facebook page are all going to Colin at Gestalt Audio Design! Yes, one of them is mine 🙂.

@hchilcoat

I can totally relate to what you’re saying. Achieving that level of satisfaction, especially with room treatments in place, is a milestone many audiophiles strive for but don’t always reach. As impressive your existing system is, I can understand your curiosity about Galle might bring to the table. That curiosity is the hallmark of a true audiophile—always exploring the potential for even greater refinement and connection to the music.

I can’t praise HIJIRI cables enough, they were one of the best purchases in my audiophile journey. Cables can make a surprising difference, revealing subtleties and enhancing the synergy between components.

It’s also worth noting how important room treatments are in getting the most out of high-end gear. They often make as much, if not more of a difference than a component upgrade. With that foundation already in place, you’re perfectly positioned to hear every nuance a new addition like the Galle might bring.

Looking forward to hearing how it turns out if you decide to take the plunge!

@lalitk I finally have reached a point of truly high end sound, especially with the addition of sound treatments to the room. Although I could certainly be happy with my current set up, I am now curious to see what the Galle can add on top of that given what I’ve heard about the Galle from people I trust!

And yes the HIJIRI cables are wonderful. Colin really knows his stuff. 

“I traded the Circle Labs amp/pre for the New Audio Frontiers 211 SE amp and Stradavari pre and they sound wonderful with the SONs.”
@hchilcoat 

Congratulations! To my ears, this was indeed the most beautiful pairing when I last visited @gestalt. And you got HIJIRI cables…I bet you are in musical heaven :-) 

@grannyring Glad to hear the Conica stands are working out for you. I have my SONs on LiveVibe Rhythm Junior stands and they sound great. I wonder how they compare to the Conicas.

I traded the Circle Labs amp/pre for the New Audio Frontiers 211 SE amp and Stradavari pre and they sound wonderful with the SONs.

I look forward to hearing more about your impressions of the new Galle. Saw a bunch of them ready for shipping on the Cinnamon Facebook page. Maybe yours is in that batch. How long have you had to wait for it?

No shock awesome system Bill I look forward to seeing it and I've heard WvL speakers several times at CAF they sound great.

@jond thanks for asking. Well, I moved 5 times in the past 2 years and let’s just say it has been a stressful time period. The Audiophile’s Wife and I are now settled and hopefully for many years 🙂. I now have a nice treated and dedicated listening room.

I have the Wolf Von Langa Son speakers with Conica stands, Innuos Pulsar streamer, Cinnamon Galle dac, cables all made by John Tucker of Exemplar Audio and John’s hybrid integrated amp. I will most likely add a tube amp to rotate in at some point in the future.  The Galle dac is due in any day now. Once the Galle dac is in place I will load my system into Virtual Systems.

@grannyring Hey Bill what is your system setup these days? I clicked your profile but I don't see your virtual system anymore?

@hchilcoat 

The Galle dac sounded fantastic with the Sons and Circle Labs.  Just fantastic! Look forward to your comments. 

@mclinnguy

I purchased the WVL Conica stands that just came out recently. They raise the speakers 7 inches and sound fantastic! Stage height is taller and the Sons sound even more open. Now I had to work on repositioning my speakers and listening position to achieve this result. I found more toe-in helped me not lose any deep bass or body. My Sons are now pointing at my shoulders and I can just barely see the inner side of the speakers from my listening position. I also moved my listening position forward about 10 inches. The Sons never sounded better in my room.

@mclinnguy To be honest, I don't remember what they sounded like  re: soundstage on the floor. I only had them there for a few days until Colin came to set them up and we agreed that the Sons sounded better on the Sistrum stands and then I upgraded to the current LiveVibe Rhythm Junior stands. Soundstage height is great on those stands. And of course WVL is now offering their own stands for the SON speakers. 

@hchilcoat 

Looking forward to your impressions. The DAC's you have listed above would be on my list when I upgrade in a few years. 

Sorry to sidetrack the thread a wee bit, but I'll repeat the question @grannyring  asked in 2023, as I am curious to the answer as well: 

"Looking very nice! How much improvement did you hear by raising the Sons off the floor for more height? I know the LiveVibe products really help all sonic areas, but am specifically asking about stage height changes with the stands. "

I talked to Colin yesterday and he will be sending me a Cinnamon Galle DAC for audition.

I realize that this is a new product from a brand that is relatively unknown, so we'll see how their business develops and product awareness grows. Of course, resale is likely to be better on products for well-know products, but audio products are not the greatest financial investment and the main goal is exceptional sound. I haven't had a chance to listen to the Playback Designs DAC, which costs twice much as the Galle, but I have auditioned the Weiss Helios, which is also costs considerably more, as well as the Grimm 2, and I was impressed with their sound.  So I'll have some reference to compare the Gelle to a couple of more expensive and well known pieces (of course the Grimm is a streamer/DAC). 

One other place I have found useful discussion about the Galle is Whats Best Forum: (1) Munich HighEnd 2024 | What's Best Audio and Video Forum. The Best High End Audio Forum on the planet! Here is a quote about the Galle that is interesting: 

I know Miguel quite well, he and the guys (Rui, Mesquita) at Ultimate Audio in Lisbon Portugal, he got me on my audiophile journey in earnest, and I will be forever grateful, he has a great ear, presently he carries Aqua, Wadax, Playback and Lampizator Dac's, so for him to say the Galle is a great Dac is indeed high praise, and it's good to see another Portuguese manufacturer join the Audiophile community....

Approximate translation from Portuguese :

It's no secret that I love Cinnamon Audio!
A very well kept secret of European Audio.
It comes from a country with little pedigree on the international audiophile scene but this brand is here to win abroad too!
My recommendation is no longer enough… It's simply the dac you need to listen to now!

Coming from him it's indeed "High Praise"......
 

I owned the Mojo Audio Evo Pro dac per my comments vs the Galle. Mojo is well reviewed and known. Also owned and compared several other dacs to the Galle including a fantastic build by John Tucker of Exemplar Audio and the Merason Dac 1. I have owned and heard many cuts of Dry aged ribeye over the last few years🤓. Merging Technologies dac, Neodio and others. I’m no newbie or sophomore to auditioning fine dacs. The Galle is certainly a very special sounding dac.

Is there anything about a “standard reference dac” that assures it sounds better than a Tron or Cinnamon Audio piece? Certainly not. Actually, smaller innovative companies are where I find some of the best sounding and innovative gear. Great big audio world out there and all we can do is listen for ourselves. Said differently, a small independent restaurant can sometimes serve up a better steak than Ruth’s Chris. Won’t know until you venture out and sample. This is making me hungry.

”

@hchilcoat the playback designs mpd8 is fantastic, can’t go wrong with that. There’s also an actual resale market for that, and local support.

I’m intrigued by the Galle, esp the model II based on the power supply upgrades, but the comments are something of a black box…essentially comparing this small batch boutique product to another small batch boutique product that very few have heard (Tron), as opposed to a standard industry reference (like a Tambaqui, MSB, etc) that many have heard / owned…hard to put much value on that, to be candid - it’s like someone who’s never had a fine dry aged ribeye, telling me how amazing their filet mignon was…

I expect the dac early next week! Hard for me to be patient, but based on my extended audition it is worth the wait. I will share on the initial sound as well as the sound after break in.  

I really look forward to reading the first review of the Galle Dac.  

@grannyring - Did you get yours yet?  Any further thoughts on how it performs and what it does well as a DAC?  I like the looks of it and I actually apprecate the absence of bells and whistles.  Like the Mojo Audio DACs, I believe it is more important that their effect is heard rather than seen.

I also heard that same setup at CAF and didn't see this thread until now. I was wondering who the heck Cinnamon Audio was as those speakers were stunning looking as well as sounding great. Like @larryi I thought the system sounded great overall but didn't pay too much attention to the Galle Dac. I liked the other Gestalt room also and have liked all his rooms in the past at CAF Colin obviously has very fine ears.

@larryi I heard the Cinnamon dac and speakers at Gestalt Audio and agree the music sounded fantastic.  I was also impressed with the build quality of those open baffle speakers. 

I heard it at Capital Audiofest and did not know it until reading about it here.  I heard the setup by Gestalt and was really impressed by the sound.  My focus was on the open baffle Cinnamon speaker which sounded fantastic.  I have no idea what the DAC contributed to the sound, but the system as a whole was impressive.

Well @jc51373 your post is not helpful in any way.  If you want to add something helpful, then post on your actual experience  with the Galle dac.  If you have no experience with it, then please don’t make a comparison claim to a dac you happen to own. You have absolutely no idea how the two dacs compare in your system. Zero insight or knowledge. Your negative post seems way out of line and certainly makes me question the rest of your post.  

Vlad from Audio mirror is having a DAC sale on his Trobadour V . Check it out. If you can’t afford Galle . 

@grannyring Thank you for your response re:Mojo EVO. I’ll definitely have to audition the Cinnamon.

If you have the money it’s now a good time to have plenty of choices of DACs. 

@mitch2 i just read the TM review of the D1-Unity dac and I am sure it is a beautiful sounding piece. I have always been aware of this company and their dacs, but never took a deeper dive for some unknown reason. Love to compare this dac to the Galle. Both are about the same price and seem focused on similar sonic goals.

Well, it took me a full day to catch the error in my previous post. It was supposed to read 2 BILLION micro farads, not 2 Billion farads. That's still a piss pot full of farads and I have never heard of any other audio component sporting anywhere near that level of spec. Possibly the Pivetta Opera 20,000 watt amp or some such might but it is beyond me.