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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?????
kevziek

Showing 1 response by phild

phild
603 posts
 
I agree with the above regarding the Millenium DAC 2 trial. For $1050, what have you got to lose?? It is a great DAC, and mine keeps getting better and better as I improve my transport. That's a good sign. You may end up preferring one of your three original choices, but perhaps not. Why spend the extra money if there's no improvement?

Ric said that he finally has enough employees and they are almost caught up on production. He claims that anyone ordering now will receive it in 10-14 days.

Phil
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