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Possible New DAC for Discrete Opamp Rolling

It's been a while...
I got into discrete opamp rolling in the Eastern Electric Minimax DAC Supreme years ago when I reviewed it for Dagogo.com. Time has passed, and I still use the beautiful DAC, sans tube, and roll discrete opamps in it. Knowing how technology advances, I'm sure that there are a few new toys on the market for discrete opamp rolling. 

So... what are the contenders for best new DAC toy for such rolling? Anyone with experience with the EE DACs have a recommendation? I am talking about the socketed opamp that is dropped in. I'm not looking to solder these. I want quick change ability. 

I see that since I last demoed the Burson, DEXA NewclassD and Sparkos Labs there are several new models of opamps from them. Any new players? 

I would appreciate information on any of the following:

1. Experience with the latest discrete opamps for the EE Minimax DAC Supreme, including both the companies I mentioned and new companies. 

2. New DACs offering quick change discrete opamp rolling. I would entertain ideas of a dedicated DAC or integrated DAC, but I am not seeking headphone use; this is for the big rig. 

Thanks; your contribution will save me hours of searching! 
douglas_schroeder

Showing 4 responses by douglas_schroeder

douglas_schroeder OP
3,281 posts
 
glen, nice to hear from you, and you seem to know the benefit of rolling discrete opamps. I have an email sent off to Burson to see what they recommend for my EE Minimax DAC Supreme. I saw one guy put the V5 into it (dual and single), so I know that would work. I presume the V6 would work, and from the highly scientific analysis (facetious; they show a chart of descriptive factors) it seems the V6 Classic would appeal to me. 

But, I'm also talking DACs, and I'm somewhat surprised that there have been no recommendations yet. What does that mean? Aren't there any high quality DACs with swappable opamps? One should not have to go to a megabuck MSB to get to roll opamps. I sure hope that we're not down to cheap headphone combo DAC/Preamps as selection for rolling opamps.  :(


douglas_schroeder OP
3,281 posts
 
auxinput, have you tried mixing and matching the the brands? I did a lot of that with the first flight of Burson, NewClassD, and Sparkos years ago, and I was able to attain much more range of results. It's a time consuming thing to try all variables with many Opamps, but imo well worth it. With the variety of combinations I was able to tune the DAC to any rig I established. I'm looking for even more capability with the new Bursons, and I will probably try the Sonic Imagery. 

Yes, I saw the DAC recommend. Your advice has been hugely helpful! 
douglas_schroeder OP
3,281 posts
 
auxinput, splendid reply, thanks! You obviously know what you are doing in regard to this subject. 

Are you indicating that the Sonic Imagery 994 Enh (or 992 single) require additional caps? i.e. That it is not recommended to use these without modification of the EE Minimax DAC Supreme? Or, are you indicating that optimal performance will not result without addition of caps? The way you described the use of the Sonic Imagery opamps it sounds like damage could result if the unit is not modified. 

I'm not sure if Sparkos Labs has changed their discrete opamps in the past several years; they appear the same. NewClassD looks revolutionized, and I have a message in to them, too. 



douglas_schroeder OP
3,281 posts
 
As I was notified of the new post added to this thread, I have an opportunity to share that I did procure a Kinki Studio EX-M1+ Integrated Amp, and reviewed it for Dagogo.com 

The discrete opamp rolling experience with the EX-M1+ has been highly rewarding, and I recommend it to adventurous audiophiles. Note that I have concluded over the long term regardless of which is rolled, a DAC or Integrated, that obtaining a wide variety of brands of opamps is the most advantageous to find a perfect selection and ultimate satisfaction. It costs more, but the outcome is significantly superior, imo. 
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