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Next best exponential DAC quality level?

I recently did a shoot out of three DACs using my Hint6 + routing each of the other DACs to analog input on the Hint6:

(1) Hint6: ESS Sabre32 -- Integrated 

(2) SMSL M500: ES9038PRO D/A   ~$400 

(3) Khadas ToneBoard(v1): ESS ES9038Q2M - ~$99

I played the same song passages on Amazon Music and was able to cycle through each Hint6 input corresponding to each DAC.

The result?  Very small difference in terms of rendering.  Maybe a more open sound stage with better overall balance using the Hint6 DAC.  The Khadas was more bass / midrange pronounced w/ a more narrow soundstage.  However, I wouldn't suggest that any were head-and-shoulders "better" over the others.  In fact, they were all pretty decent with only small nuances (certainly not worth the price differences.   

I decided to keep the Khadas for my small headphone listening area. 

But it got me thinking - how much would one have to spend to realize an exponential difference in quality?  Is the Khadas that good, or is DAC technology differences more nuanced than I originally thought (meaning, we're paying 10x for only 5% better).  

 

martinman

Showing 3 responses by mapman

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,834 posts
 

All these words help me not. 

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,834 posts
 

Yes well when one is a new kid on the block it is usually a good idea to not make too many enemies. Some people are better at that than others but it is no doubt a good strategy for success. Too much conflict never ends well. It’s a failure plain out. Better for a wise man to learn how to get along with others for the benefit of all. Of course it’s an imperfect world so one can only strive with the knowledge that some things are out of one’s control. But many are not. Like how you treat and respect others including those with differing views.

If accused falsely I would merely clearly deny it. If it persists after that then one has done their part and can only move on. Best to not get caught up in constant pissing contests. It’s a bad look for all! No winners.

Just my opinion…..

mapman's avatar
mapman
22,834 posts
 

If one finds themselves in constant conflict with others, the only viable thing to do is  look in the mirror and assess.  
 

Or you can can just always put all the blame on others and see where that gets you which is nowhere. 

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