I would consider the 360 or the 360s they are worlds apart from the 36 and also blow away any of the above mentioned. Also they cost more money the sonic frontiers can sound a little thin the theta is also very good but they add alot of warmth to their sound which gives you a false presentation of what is on the recording. The Levinson has the tonal accuracy. Wide & deep sounstage and liquid mids. If money is an issue then buy a 36 which in my opinion sounds better than the above mentioed also. And send it in for the upgrade when you have the extra cash. Good luck Dan
Which DAC? Levinson, Theta, Sonic Frontiers
I'm considering upgrading from my Theta IIIa Dac, and wonder what the sonic characteristics are of 3 highly respected Dac's: The SFD-2 Mk. II, ML No. 36, and the Theta Gen. Va.
My system is: SFT-1 & ML 37 transports, SFL-2 preamp, DNA-225, & Vandersteen 2Ce Sigs.
I've looked at many reviews of these pieces, & although all reviewers liked them all, there were criticisms:
SFD-2: Bass a bit bloomy, not as tight & defined, but warmed up the sound. Upper mids prominent, with female voices displaying sibilance. Some treble grain, not as open as ML. A forward sound.
ML 36: Bass tight & defined, but not up to Theta's. More detailed & open & airy highs. Slightly laid back perspective. Vocals not as exciting. Big soundstage with great delineation of individual instruments, but not palpable like the SFD-2.
Theta Gen. Va: Best bass of all. Soundstage & imaging quite good, but ML 36 still better. Not quite as airy & open at the top, less well defined space around and between instruments.
What is your experience?????
My system is: SFT-1 & ML 37 transports, SFL-2 preamp, DNA-225, & Vandersteen 2Ce Sigs.
I've looked at many reviews of these pieces, & although all reviewers liked them all, there were criticisms:
SFD-2: Bass a bit bloomy, not as tight & defined, but warmed up the sound. Upper mids prominent, with female voices displaying sibilance. Some treble grain, not as open as ML. A forward sound.
ML 36: Bass tight & defined, but not up to Theta's. More detailed & open & airy highs. Slightly laid back perspective. Vocals not as exciting. Big soundstage with great delineation of individual instruments, but not palpable like the SFD-2.
Theta Gen. Va: Best bass of all. Soundstage & imaging quite good, but ML 36 still better. Not quite as airy & open at the top, less well defined space around and between instruments.
What is your experience?????