2. digital
  3. 1251963614

Just got the PS Audio Perfectwav DAC -- Amazing

For the last year my system has consisted of the Slim Devices Transporter (Transport + DAC) -> Bel Canto Ref1000 -> Anthony Gallo Ref 3.1

I listen to all my music digitally (lossless/flac). I was very happy with my original system but when the Perfectwave DAC came out I was intrigued. For quite a while I debated between the PW and keeping the transporter or modding it via Modwright.

I ended up getting the PW and though I can't compare it to a modded transporter, it blows the stock transporter out of the water. I should note that since the network bridge isnt out for the PW, I am currently streaming music via the transporter -> coaxial out (spdif) -> PW.

I have only listened for ~5 hours so far, but things I have noticed right away is much cleaner/tighter bass. The low end is so much more accurate than it was before. When comparing, the transporter sounded very muddy (even though at the time I though it was quite good). The mids and highs are tighter as well. The separation has improved quite a bit as well. I have immediately noticed that the loudness of different instruments is wider spread than listening to the same songs on the transporter.

Hope this helps! If anyone has any questions about the PW or the transporter I will try my best to answer them.
danyal711

Showing 1 response by douglas_schroeder

douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
Based on my experiences using cdp's or DAC's with level controls the massive improvement of going "direct to amp" with the source, if doable, is of such benefit that it is almost impossible to overstate.

I have two rigs assembled from review components I purchased (Disclosure) which I use regularly; they have no dedicated preamp, nor the additional set of cables necessary for said preamp. Cabling between components is assumed:

Source
Pathos Classic One MKIII integrateds in Bridged mode
Kingsound King ESL or Legacy Audio Focus SE

OR

Source
Cambridge Audio Azur 840W (two units, Bi-Amp Mono)
Kingsound King or Legacy Focus SE

In the first setup the tube preamp stage of the Classic One integrateds control listening level, and the source volume is run on max. In the latter example the source controls the level.

Danyal711, you are wise in attempting to streamline your rig in that fashion, and I'm not surprised you are being handsomely rewarded.
More to discover