Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

It was well crafted and I’m so sad it’s gone.

Very abbreviated version without any descriptions (I’m so sorry, but I can’t do it again):

newly upgraded ODSX - awesome but don’t like the Ethernet input. Better then the ODSE and worth every penny of the $6k upgrade. It’s the best DAC available for under $25k

DA2 - accurate, meticulous, expansice, has life but no soul. It’s a reviewers dream DAC . If I were to build a system on the DA2 starting with the DA2 (like DCS) then I could build a world class system. But it’s been difficult to get the most out of it by inserting it into my particular existing system. It needs tubes or warmer solid state to make it shine, IMHO. With that, it could be world class.

Davinci Light Harmonic - it is the best DAC I have ever heard by a long shot. I heard music within the music. Dances of harmonics in strings and vocals that I never ever knew could exist. Accuracy without sterility, complexity and layers that were exposed for the first time ever. Just wow! A massive trade (including the DA2) was struck plus a wad of cash and this unit will be heading off for a full upgrade to LH2 status and then coming back for permanent residence.

So, I can’t believe I’m saying this, my ODSX is up for sale. If you are interested in the best DAC for under $25k then message me. It won’t be available until the LH2 is ready for delivery. But a deal can be struck now if interested.

I also still have a Chord DAVE coming in. Now it’s more for curiosity and to report to you. I can’t imagine it would outperform the LH. It might be better then the ODSX, maybe. But the ODSX tonal similarity to the LH was uncanny. Like the ODSX was the $14k model in Davinci’s line; sounds like it came from the same DNA. It’s THAT good!

I will post a follow up shoutout to Dave, the Audio Doctor. He gave me a ton of his time and deserves serious recognition.

Jwm- apologies but it was a while ago. If you go back in the thread you will find my impressions. It’s never about not liking. It’s about liking something else more. I have heard the Bricasti sound great with other Bridasti gear at shows. So I know it can sound awesome. But I don’t think it matched up with what I was comparing it with. It wasn't a matter of "didn’t like". It was a matter of the other stuff being better in my system to my ears.

But go back and find rhe comments and im sure I was more descriptive.

I told you the DaVinci was special. The best I’ve ever heard, period. Still curious to compare it to the Gryphon Kalliope and the Audio Note DAC 4 or 5.

Matt, I was so happy the other night when you shared your LH thoughts.  Very very cool.  I NEED to get over to hear that DAC.  Of all the expensive ones, I haven't heard the LH and need to.

Matt Nope, I checked the old comments and you said you liked it for one day and then it disappeared off the radar. You never said anything else about it. You must have not been that impressed.