PS Audio Gain Cell DAC/preamp--- Still relevant?


I saw this model was on the PS Audio website, so I assumed it is a current model. I love the look and features, but I noticed that reviews can date back to 2017. That's coming up on 6 years! 

Is this DAC still relevant? Did it go through any changes at any time without changing the model name?

128x128nickrobotron

IVE OWNED SEVERAL PSA PREAMPS, ALL HAD OPTION POWER SUPPLIES. I BOUGHT THE M700S AND DAC/PRE WHEN THEY WERE FIRST INTRODUCED. THOUGH I LIKED THE M700s, I FELT THE PRE LACKED UMPH OF AN OUTBOARD PS. I WROTE TO PAUL ABOUT IT, WHO SAID THEY FELT IT DIDN'T NEED IT. WTF?

I got a second E50 for my PC in DAC mode to replace a Schiit that FAILED. An iFI iPurifier2 in front of it to galvanically isolate works wonders; going balanced into a PA5 amp. First I tried a D10s but found that I needed the RC volume control.

 

I didn’t care for it when new, I had a Bluesound going SPDIF into the DAC. Only slightly better SQ. Promptly got a Directstream DAC. Night and day.

Then I traded for a pre with RC tape and processor loops.

IMHO this $199 DAC sounds better (to me.):

I spend more hours with it than the DirectStream.

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