LAIV Harmony

@no_regrets 

Thanks so much for posting the additional quotes. I recognize that, due to budgetary constraints, trade-offs are  inevitable in my case. That's OK. However, sacrificing musicality for resolution is a complete non-starter for me.

When it comes time to buy my next DAC (likely my last) the LTA will be at the top of my list to demo. 

Perhaps I’m missing something, here, but I don’t really see the point of debating whether a particular reviewer’s comments on a particular DAC are "accurate" or "reliable". In the end, what matters is how it sounds to you in your system in your room according to your tastes.

While it can be reassuring to read/watch a favorable review from a reviewer one likes, there is still no guarantee you will like it. In the end, there is only one way to find out. 

BTW, LAIV is not the only company that offers trial/return policies on their DACS!

@audiostick

I wish you luck in your DAC quest.

@no_regrets

Based on the writings of Michael, the LTA Aero (although being more expensive than the Harmony) has more developed sonic attributes that are more in-line with what is important to me.

The following excerpt from the Twittering Machines review inclines me to believe the same is true for me, as well:

From my Harmony DAC review: “Switching between NOS and OS modes throughout the course of the review period had me wishing for something in between.” And while it’s not literally the case, in some ways the Aero slots in between with a more pleasing and engaging balance between color and resolution. More engaging because I respond to richness in tone and texture as being better able to connect me to music’s emotive powers than sharp, super-defined edges.

I hope you’ll report back to us once you’ve had the LTA in your system for a while.