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Mark Levinson No. 36 DAC & High Resolution Files

Hi

Still have a Mark Levinson No. 36 DAC which is sounding very good in spite of its age - it actually sounds more analogue and warmer than the DACs of today.

I have been outputting FLAC's from a Squeezebox Duet to it via the BNC input on the 36 and it has been playing fine. Recently, I have been thinking of buying higher resolution files. The 36 only goes up to 24/48. Would higher resolution files work on it and how would they sound? I presume they would be downsampled to or only play at 24/48.

Thanks
mikey8811

Showing 5 responses by mikey8811

mikey8811 OP
259 posts
 
Hi Tim

I was thinking of getting the Wyred 4 Sound DAC 2 otherwise. Was that one of the DAC's you tried?
mikey8811 OP
259 posts
 
Is there any DAC capable of higher bit rates so I can play files of 24/96 and higher resolution you would recommend that has a similar analogue sound of the Mark Levinson?
mikey8811 OP
259 posts
 
OK thanks. The 36 only goes up to 20/48. I guess the 360 is quite future proof given its vintage considering most Hi Res files are 24/96.

Which ones did you try?

I will try to audition the PS Audio Perfect Wave DAC.

I also read about the new Musical Fidelity M1 DAC. That is a lower end DAC but reviewers compare it favourably to the Weiss 202 DAC.
mikey8811 OP
259 posts
 
Tmsorosk,

All the DACs you mention are not mid fi to me - they sound pretty high end.

I'm quite surprised they didn't perform as warm as the ML 360 after all they are not DAC's people use for computer audio alone and would fit into any respectable full on hi fi rig.
mikey8811 OP
259 posts
 
Yes, Rockitman that's true. i've heard of the reputation for expensive repairs. The local agents out here charge rip off pricing.
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