The Six Moons.com review on the Mhdt Labs Orchid DAC just went up
Ok, i had a Prism Sound Callia DAC and decided to get the Orchid. The Orchid was comparable to the Callia (although the Callia is pricier) and i would say somewhat better sounding over the Callia although the Orchid does not have a headphone or volume control. Also, the Orchid does not upsample and is based on a single tube output. I do not regret the change especially since changing out the Phillips 1541 A for 1541 S1 single crown. The single crown S1 is richer, deeper bass, more depth, improved imaging, soundstage and clarity.. |
Bsme85 "mhdt Lab did pay 6Moons for this review. I own the Orchid, as well as Schitt Gumby, and PS Audio PWD Mark II." I also own a PS Audio PWD Mark II. How would you discribe the differences between the Mark II and the Orchid? I love most everything that the Mark II offers: detail, spaciousness, warmth, etc., but there is a little bit of hash around the vocals that I could do without. So, I’m wondering. Thanks Toolbox |
IMO there are many variables that have impact on the sound. I am a transport spinner and many of the DACs reviewed or heard will sound different with a different transport. I don't know what $14K DAC was compared to a $2K DAC that was equal, better or close, I find hard to believe but that comes down to the design of the component. If you understand design, then you can understand if the price is worth it or not. Is a $20K cable worth $20K? Does that cable have as big of impact on the sound? Reviews are nice to read but overall to me I only want to hear something in my system and make my own judgement. Many recent comments about some DACs did not work out for me when I heard them. The DACs that were reviewed or recommended that were considered good, were nothing special to my ears. Good OK, but no giant killers that I heard. Maybe good values for the money but that was all I heard. You can buy older DACs and upgrade a few parts and have better values and provide better sound IMO for a lot less also. Happy Listening |
This review was the final straw to finally get me to pull the trigger on the Orchid. I'm really glad I did and I'm enjoying digital more now as an alternative to spinning vinyl. Lots of great CDs to be had for cheap! A little easier than hunting NM vinyl with the best pressing. I plan to add a streamer or server in the future also. |
Thanks guys. Quick question: what output are you using for the Orchid? Is it optimized for one vs another? I've typically used USB outputs for my MHDT Canary Dac and I have an Orchid on the way and I'm considering using the orchid with a Lyngdorf 2170 and Tekton electrons. However the lyngdorf is used and doesn't have USB input. I think @grannyring that you used this combo before? What output did you use and what was your experience? Thanks for your reviews @teajay |
@lordmelton I don't think I'd need firmware update if I am switching from 1541A R which is stock in Orchid to single crown since they are the same exact chip just hand picked? |
@viggen Well it should work then if you are sure it doesn't need to be flashed with firmware and it's exactly the same chip. |
@big_greg thanks! |
@morganc .. I use BNC with my Pagoda. I prefer it to their USB implementation. |
