LAIV Harmony

A Pontus with an Iris DDC is a killer combination. I'm still running a 3 year old Pontus II with I2S to an Iris DDC.....total cost just a tad over $2,100 invested. Not the last word in detail, but really really good in most areas. Enjoyable, fun, easy to listen too, great soundstage and imaging.....just no flaws.

I've been really surprised that I've upgraded most everything else (speakers, preamp, solid state amp, tube amp, cables), and I have not felt the need to rush out to replace the Pontus/Iris combo. I of course know that I will, but the Pontus has performed admirably even while moving up into the solid "Mid fi" category....and I still enjoy listening to it daily

I have no dog in this fight, as I own a Denafrips Pontus II with I2S from a Denafrips Iris DDC.

I know quality seems to be an issue right now for the Laiv, but if anyone will help get it corrected; it is Alvin Chee at Vinshine Audio (importer for Laiv, Jay's Audio, LHY, Kinki Studio....and formerly Denafrips). He is still bar none, the best and most involved importer I've ever dealt with.

Secondly, if anyone is still looking at the Laiv, Vinshine is offering at 10% discount on the Harmony for any of his previous customers. That's $3,300 Singapore dollars, which is $2,540 in US dollars