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Are there any reviews from someone who upgraded their DSD MkI DAC from the original APS transformers and VOCM mods to the new Signature series plus?
Thought we would post some of the reviews of the Signature Series PLUS.
07/07/2024
Allears
We had fun yesterday comparing my Signature Series Plus with my friends modified Directstream.
He had his DAC upgraded last year by APS with the standard VOCM mod, the original APS nickel transformers and some power supply mods. Both units have Snowmass V1 (3.00) firmware installed (The APS recommended firmware)
We started off listening to his DAC. We switched all the cables from mine to his and set the DAC’s volume to 92. It sounded really good although I could hear the deficiencies in comparison to what I was used to hearing however I didn’t say anything. We both listened to his favorite tracks. I picked a couple of my favorites then we switched in my DAC. The first few seconds they sound very similar however after about a minute he looks at me and states I wish mine would sound so real. It was so obvious after a few minutes of play the difference was so big, its chameleon like, mood-lifting performance and energy gains were…so real sounding. You need to hear to believe it how it handles double drums, fast solos, percussive instruments and quick shifts in dynamics. Nothing will slip past its gaze like it knows exactly what it will be playing. With the Signature Series Plus, expect an unlimited well of explosive dynamics and that’s how we both felt it was with every musical genre. It was rich sounding, full-bodied, but also very defined, preserving sharp leading edges. You could hear the room it was recorded in so clearly. Detail retrieval or transparency are redundant with a unit like this, as it will playback every single bit of information with utmost accuracy and in a very life-like manner. It doesn’t sound like digital, it sounds like music played back in real time, by real musicians sitting in front of you, playing just for you. When it comes to resolution and dynamic range, My DAC single handedly outperformed his DAC.
Don’t get me wrong his DAC sounded wonderful just not as good as the Signature Series Plus.
Before he left last night my friend ordered the Signature Series Plus upgrade at the VIP price and never looked back.
7/19/2024 Signature Series PLUS upgrade.
Received my DAC back last Tuesday. After three days of listening, all I can say is "Wow, that is A LOT OF DETAIL!!" Imaging improved, and bass seems to be significantly extended without sounding bloated. I had to reduce the volume on my subwoofer.
Needless to say, I'm very satisfied and impressed with this upgrade. Thanks for the great job and the fast turn around.
Keith C.
Talked to my buddy last night He received his Signature Series Plus upgrade yesterday. That was super fast turnaround by APS. He sent it out on Monday and received it back on Saturday. He is thrilled with the sound and quality of the upgrade. He thought the new badging on the front is a nice touch.
