Ladder Schumann DAC Warning


Just wanted to provide some feedback on the Ladder Schumann DAC.

After just a few hours of use the unit started developing static noise in the background with music (not when no signal sent between songs). This was common on all inputs - AES, COAX, USB and the I2S right channel died.

Not sure if it is hardware or firmware related but I have seen a few other reviews from users whose units have died.

Unfortunately the seller Shenzhen Audio gave me the run around for a bit until I filed a Paypal claim. But they still refuse to provide a return shipping label and asked me to pay to send it back and only declare a $150 customs value. I thought they were a fairly established and professional company?

Very unfortunate as this DAC sounded the best of those I tried in this price range. But maybe just not ready for prime time. Maybe after a few firmware updates it would be better.

If you do buy one try to purchase thru Amazon or Walmart or other USA dealer where you have some protection from them as the experience I had dealing with the distributor was very disappointing.

 

calieng

Showing 1 response by v-fi

I've heard that Ladder, Denafrips, and Musician Audio are all made in the same factory with slight differences in the designs. You can compare the specs and buzzwords, this does seem to be the case from what I can tell. 

Denafrips will cost more but should give you better support (in theory). Less so with Musician, and as you are experiencing, even less still with Ladder. Personally I would be comfortable buying Musician Audio from a dealer with a good reputation, but not off ebay or anything like that.