2. digital
  3. 1241177989

Wadia 270/27 vs. Esoteric P70/D70

Hello.

How's the sonic signature different? Are they comparable in level but different tastes only? Reliability?

I'm looking to upgrade my system by incorporating a transport + a DAC with volume control to use direct to my amp (McIntosh MC275 + B&W 804s). Been doing a fair amount of reading but haven't seen much in terms of comparison (not even between the brands, which is strange...).

Note the decoding computer is a 27 (no an i or ix version), and the transport is 270 (not an SE), for price reasons.
Have seen great things said about GNSC mods for Wadia and RAM mods for Esoteric. Might consider them down the road.

Seems like either combo would cost about the same (around $6500). Both are older devices, however, and a lot has been said about the evolution of digital in the last years. Also considered Emm CDSD/DCC2, but several people reported reliability issues, which for me are unacceptable at this price point.

I listen to mostly small ensemble-type music: jazz, blues, rock, and a little large-scale classical.

Thanks for any and all input!
lewinskih01

Showing 1 response by lewinskih01

lewinskih01 OP
911 posts
 
Irish65,

Thanks for the tip. Looking into GNSC web site I discovered they don't mod the 270/27, which I thought they did.
So it looks more like a 581SE vs P70/D70 thread, although the 27 allows for more inputs.

Are you able to comment of the sound signature differences between Esoteric and Wadia?

Esoterics are said to be very reliable. Are Wadias as reliable (considering I'll buy something used and keep it for many years, and will be far from available service).

Anybody else?
More to discover