SPL Diamond DAC - no remote control

Because of their pro roots, they assume everyone is sitting at a mixing console where everything is in reach

Too bad her app can't change the volume.   I have to ask....  how does it sound?  

Also how are you getting your music ? Qobuz ?  Tidal?   

After an exceedingly long story it is in transit as an exchange for my Phonitor X that had developed an undetermined terminal issue. I was offered the X with the new 786xe DAC, but really wanted to try the 786 DAC with the 120v technology. I was going to use my XE as HPA and pair it up with a S800 amp. That amp is something special by the way  I have two of them. The quality of the sound is amazing they just can’t figure the connectivity options out for us mere audiophiles that add things like say subwoofers and bi-amping. 

I stream using mostly Qobuz using Auralic Aries G1’s with Roon. 

I thought about the Director as well, but it’s a lot more $ and not that functional for what it’s supposed to do being a full fledged pre-amp. It only has two outputs so if you want to connect a subwoofer and HPA you are out of luck. They opted for a tape loop instead of an additional output or two. I also note how they suggest you hook up their own HPA using unbalanced RCA when their amps are all balanced design. Why would they not add a balanced output so you can use their HPA’s the way they are designed to perform optimally?

Remotes are an absolute must for me. Preamp, phono preamp, dac, CD transport, tuner and loki max equalizer all have it. Nothing like tuning the sound to your specific ears from you listening chair if that's the way you enjoy music. Without them it takes forever to get it right, and the album is already half way through...

Exactly!