I did. It is an absolutely worthy upgrade Here is my review http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/frr.pl?rdgtl&1147623814&read&3&4& |
I've owned every generation of EMM Labs seperates including a Meitnerized Phillips SACD player / DAC 6 / Switchman II ; CDSD / DCC2 and now the Signiture Edition CDSD & DCC2. Way back when I was even one of the handful of owners of Ed's IDAT- which along with the Levinson No. 30 was at the bleeding edge of the D to A art in the digital dark ages of the late 80's / early 90's- but that's another story... No, I'm not a Meitnerite- I've owned other statement digital rigs including Wadia 270 / 27i & Audio Aero Capitole. Each new EMM Labs generation has improved on the last, and the current Signiture Edition models continue this trend. I would describe the differences between the original CDSD / DCC2 and the S.E. versions as follows: ** More Dynamic ** Several Veils Removed ** MUCH Stronger Bass ** MUCH Darker Background / Better Imaging ** Much Improved Remote Control I hate to repeat the oft overused phrase that " It's more analog like ", but it is- I'm much less aware that I'm listening to a digital source than before and seem to be more involved in the music. The TRULY EXCITING difference is on Redbook playback. I always thought that the original CDSD / DCC2 was FANTASTIC with Redbook- BY FAR the best Redbook playback I'd heard. In fact, the Redbook performance of the original CDSD / DCC2 was almost reason enough to purchase the units. The Redbook playback with the CDSD S.E. / DCC2 S.E. is AT ALMOST THE SAME LEVEL AS THE SACD PLAYBACK !! After several weeks with these units I still can't believe how good CD's sound- it's truly amazing. |
I've had mine upgraded and back from EMM Labs for almost a month. They've been playing 24/7. Similar to the above posts, the new versions sound more organic and relaxed with better dynamics, transparency, depth and imaging. It's a full spectrum improvement and not a subtle difference. When listening, it's now easier to be pulled into the music and not want to get up. There's a dynamic flow and pace to CDs and SACDs that sounds more natural. I listen to a lot of big band and hear the bite of the brass without any stridency. Drums and bass better penetrate the soundstage like they do in a performance. Vocals are clearer and sound more dimensional - front to back and side to side. As before, the latest EMM gear benefits from top-notch power cords and good isolation. I recently tried The One power cords by Jena Labs and ended up keeping them. They have a very low noise floor, are neutral and dynamic and match well with the transport and dac. Last comment: it's refreshing to be with a manufacturer that accomodates upgrades, rather than limit customers to a new purchase. I also think the upgrade cost is quite reasonable, given the improvements in performance. |
I have to agree with Fbhifi. After having my DCC-2 upgraded to Sig. it was better top to bottom. SACD was even better than before but what really stood out was the improvement in PCM. They all sound at least a little better but a redbook that is recorded well to begin with is very, very close to SACD. |
Frankg: I am really surprised as well at how good redbook is. I am putting in some CD's I really have not enjoyed listening to because of poor sonics and although it is not perfect, it is totally different than I have heard them in the past. I think Fbhifi experienced the same thing with some Led Zeppelin mini discs. Jonathan EMM Labs |
I just got my DAC6e back afte getting the "SE" upgrade. It is a tremendous improvement, and I purchased original unit in March. It was well-worth it in every respect. Jonathan is a true gentleman, and he was absolutely correct in his despcription of the upgrade. As I write this I am still playing my first cd since getting it back, and it has no break in whatsoever. If anything I think it is a greater leap than what I experienced going from the DAC6 to the DAC6e. It is more open, more relaxed yet more detailed. I am in a state of delighted shock. |
