Topping D90 III Discrete vs Audio Alchemy DDP-1 + PS 5, which I love

Hey @tweak1, in which ways did the Shanling trounce your Audiolab 6000?  I'm asking because I have the Audiolab hooked up to an old Parasound DAC.

Good question, especially since I really liked the 6000. However, compared to what? The ET3 is a much newer design with excellent build quality.  It has a significantly more robust/grounded/organic sound

HTH

ok, thanks.  your last sentence answered my question. 

tweak1:  Yeah, the AA DDP-1/PS-5 are an excellent combo and just crazy good for the giveaway prices they are going for on the used market currently.   As soon as I purchased them, I had Revelation Audio Labs make me one of their Passage Cryo-Silver umbilicals.  I've only tried the stock umbilical once, just to get a feel for the difference, and couldn't get it out my system quick enough.  Are you using the stock umbilical?  And I know you responded a while back when I was posting about using slugs in place of fuses.  Have you upgraded any of your fuses, or, God forbid, tried slugs?  

I also have a Bel Canto DAC 2.8, which is fitted with the same slug I use in the AA PS-5, and I found the AA combo to be every bit as good as the Bel Canto.  They don't sound much alike, but I find both portrayals equally appealing.  I'm looking forward to your impressions of the new Topping DAC 90 III

It is a wonderful DAC.  I like it.  But Harmony uDAC surpasses it once fully broken in.  Go small or go home!

Just came across this detailed review today, which explains my biggest question about the Discrete: The DDP-1 is a very versatile product that most computer audiophiles would consider a DAC with a volume control rather than its official description of a digital decoding preamp. The DDP-1 earns its official description because it features a full analog preamp section. This means its volume control is all analog and it has analog inputs that remain in the analog domain from input to output.

@lcherepkai 

That’s the one thing I never got around to, but will if they’re still available. Just emailed Brad. THANKS!!!

Instead of fuses I have the Vera-Fi Snubway plugged into my Core Power 1800 MkII, plugged into 20 amp dedicated line

tweak1:  you have a very nice system!  And the right tweaks make a heck of a difference!

@lcherepkai 

I sure hope it's as good as you say its $289/half meter

For me, in my system, the difference was pretty big.  The stock umbilical was quite veiled in comparison.  I think it was more forward sounding, which wasn't necessarily a bad or good thing.  Images were less distinct and flat sounding on the stock cord.  And brightness has been an issue in my system; the big titanium Eton mids I use have very good detail but can veer off into brightness so I've to be more aware of matching other components and cables with the upgraded umbilical but I really can't imagine having to go back to it.  For me, the RAL cable has been a no-brainer.  Hopefully it will be worth it for you too.

@lcherepkai 

I am well aware that cable improvements can be huge. Even though the D90III Discrete arrived yesterday I haven't opened it up, and assuming the best improvement I will return the Discrete unopened. Brads umbilical is supposed to arrive tomorrow. Was any break-in needed or is it just incredible from the get go

tweak1:  I really can't comment on break-in as I ordered the RAL umbilical when I ordered the AA combo used.  I didn't even try the AA gear until I had the RAL cord so wan't able to gauge them separately.  I tried the stock umbilical a while later just to hear and did not like it at all.  I hope the RAL cable is worth it to you.  It most certainly was to me but I'm a detail freak and that what the RAL cable delivered.  If you're a warm and fuzzy kinda guy (soundwise), then you may be less impressed.

lol

I prefer clear but on the slightly warm side: I want to hear the chest voice

Im anxiously waiting for USPS delivery today

OH MY. First notes are  FIM Super Sounds  kettle drum Fanfare for the common man. Oh and the piano keys sound real with proper growl

@Icherepkai 

Can't thank you enough!

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/revelation-audio-labs-cryoed-silver-umbilical-vs-audio-alehcemy-oem

Obviously, much depends on the quality of the coax cable and power cord

My digital coax is from Al-Express: Xangsane Grey Knight OCC Silver plated coax rca/rca. purchased Dec 2023. Alas no longer available. However, my system sounds amazing with it, but I wonder how much better a RAL would sound

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3256806125228570.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.20.2ba01802bdWFTK

FYI pure silver fuses for amps

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256806265759502.html?pdp_npi=4%40dis%21USD%21US%20%2431.27%21US%20%2429.81%21%21%2131.27%2129.81%21%402101c4b817514717727981715d23f1%2112000037225186203%21sh%21US%21128321401%21X&spm=a2g0o.store_pc_home.promotePruductList_2013101260810.1005006452074254&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa