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Lumin T2 or Matrix Audio Element X

Hi all,
I'm using a Node 2i streamer + Matrix X-Sabre Pro Dac at the moment. I'm looking for a single box streamer/dac with MQA decoding to make proper comparisons between Qobuz Hi Rez and Tidal Mqa as I use both of them. The Lumin T2 and the Matrix Element X are two solutions that I find quite interesting for a future purchase. Lumin is a well established company in the streaming market and Matrix is building really good DACs like the X-Sabre Pro. My question is if the ES9038Pro used in the Element X might be a plus with respect to the ES9028Pro used in the T2. The streamer/dac will be connected to a McIntosh MA7900 amp and Martin Logan Ethos (electrostatic speakers). 
What do You think?

triumph900

Showing 2 responses by mike_in_nc

mike_in_nc
1,126 posts
 
I'm using an Auralic Aries G1 with a Bryston BDA-2 right now. That combination would definitely meet the call for "open and detailed" but it's not a single-box solution.
mike_in_nc
1,126 posts
 
I have not heard either but am familiar with the firms' reputations.

As to your question, my impression is that implementation (engineering) is more important than the chip. Both vendors are known for excellent implementations. Both are Asian firms, so if you need service, it may not be trivial to get it.

With the Lumin, you are paying about 50% more in return for the beautiful case. 
If I had to choose between them without an audition, I'd take the Matrix. But that's me -- I don't like paying extra for metalwork. Ideally, you'd listen to music through both of them before choosing.
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