My review of the Eversolo DMP-A6. I might catch hell for this one.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- First let me say that all of my reviews are completely subjective. They are my opinion and not to be taken as criticism or as negative. I can only share my feelings and personal conclusions.
I couldn't find any love for the sound of this unit. It is magnificently built and to an amazingly high standard. Worth every penny of its asking price. I just didn't warm up to it but then, what the hell do I know? Right?
*DISCLOSURE: Some of the links below contain affiliate Amazon links. If you purchase with those links, I do receive a small commission but, it doesn't affect your price or your ability to return something. Thank you for supporting the channel.
Eversolo DMP-A6: amzn.to/3XQu066
Current audio equipment list:
• Cambridge AXR-100 Receiver: amzn.to/49Nq4Ft
• Cambridge MXN10: amzn.to/44sBhdL
• Cambridge EVO150: amzn.to/3UTJowI
• Schiit Bi-Frost Multi-Bit DAC with Unison USB
• Schiit Lokius EQ.: amzn.to/3Qhuu0x
• Schiit Mani Phono Pre-Amp: amzn.to/3JyyCVW
• Geshelli Labs JNOG2 SOCKETED [J2S] DAC (on loan from Geshelli Labs)
• Elac Debut 2.0 F-62 Speakers: amzn.to/3Jy6eUc
• Elac Debut Reference 62 (DBR62) speakers: amzn.to/3VyQzcu
• Fluance RT-84 turntable: amzn.to/4aMuZrt. Upgraded with the Audio
Technica AT540ML: amzn.to/4diAyzy
• Android Tablet, 10.1 Inch Android 12 Tablet, 6GB RAM 64GB ROM: amzn.to/3KswX50
• iFi AC iPurifier: amzn.to/3UWb4ko
• All line level cables are from World’s Best Cable. I primarily use Mogami 2964 Wire and Amphenol ACPL connectors: amzn.to/3JWCDE9
• My main streaming source is a small format PC: amzn.to/3yhCoAI
• I also use a remote-controlled line level switcher so I can run all my source components through the Schiit Lokius: amzn.to/3w8IZwL
My desktop gear:
• Nitsch modified Schiit Magni “Piety” headphone amp: nitschsound.co...
• Loxjie D30 DAC/Headphone Amp: No longer available new
• Ayima A07 amp: amzn.to/3V969LQ
• Sennheiser Mass-Drop HD6XX headphones: amzn.to/3wVNvz7
• Sony MDR-V6 Headphones: (current version) amzn.to/4aJMTdB
Email: oldguyhifi@gmail.com
Tidal Playlists:
• The Fahrenheit Project by Ultimae Records (ambient electronic music): tidal.com/brow...
• Electronica for Audiophile: tidal.com/brow...
• My Classical playlist: tidal.com/brow...
• Baroque Weekend: tidal.com/brow...
• DJ Ed, a collection of music that is all over the place. tidal.com/brow...
Spotify:
• Classical Weekend: open.spotify.c...
• 80’s Patio Mix: open.spotify.c...
Qobuz playlist:
• "Audiophile Electronica": open.qobuz.com...
• "Vivaldi": open.qobuz.com...
I couldn't find any love for the sound of this unit. It is magnificently built and to an amazingly high standard. Worth every penny of its asking price. I just didn't warm up to it but, then what the hell do I know? Right?
I “found” your channel recently and really like your review style and knowledge. I appreciate this review, even though I own the DMP-A6 and I do like the sound. It’s refreshing to hear a reviewer say that a product is well built and worth the price, but the sound doesn’t match their preference. I have a Schiit Ragnarok 2 that’s currently connected to Polk Audio Reserve R200 bookshelf speakers. I have a pair of Zu Audio DWX speakers with the Superfly upgrade that are scheduled to be delivered next week. I’m also considering ordering an external DAC, so I’d be interested to hear your opinion on the sound with the external DACs you like (J2, J3 Pro and Bifrost). Thanks!
David, Sounds like next week will be a good week in the Head household. Wow. Sean builds some really cool speakers. Thank you for the kind words. As far as DACs, The J2S and J3 Pro are basically the same unit and sound is so close as to make me unsure which is best. One day I think it is the J2S the other its the J3. I do recommend either and honestly I think I would be happy with the J2S and the standard TI op-amps. The magic in those units is the board design and that AK4499EXEQ+AK4191 hybrid switched resistor-multibit chip set. So take your pick. Now to the Bi-Frost. I have not heard the latest version so I can't comment. I know how mine sounds but, it is not something anyone can buy. The mods make it an outlier. My guess is that it will sound fantastic. I do love multibit R2R so, I am sure it would be wonderful. I hope I have helped. Thank you so much for subscribing and commenting.
@@OldGuyHifi Thanks for the reply Ed! Yes, next week will be fun after waiting a few weeks for the speakers. :-) I did watch your video on the J2 vs. the J3 Pro and found it very informative. I prefer the look of the Bifrost over the Geshelli Labs DACs, and I love my Schiit amp, but the sound is the most important thing. The J3 Pro with upgrades is about the same price, so I might end up purchasing both and then selling the one that I don’t end up preferring.
Good luck and please let me know what you decide. Thanks.
Mojo beats it as far as my ears are concerned. but I love it for it's rich functionality
I love mine! DMP-A6>RME ADI-2>Rogue Audio RP-1>PS Audio M700s>Monitor Audio Platinum 200s😊
I get it. It is a super well built well designed product. I can bet it sounds amazing with your rig. Hell an old cassette deck would sound amazing with that set up. I am a bit envious. I love the RME and the Rogue. Yummy. Thanks for watching and making me jealous.
Great review thank you. The multichanel HDMI audi output socket is great feature as ROON supports mulichannel audio both in PCM and DSD so this could be used with a surround processor as a multichannel streamer using ROON. Also my understaning is that the Eversolo DMP A6 can be used with Apple Music which also supports multichannel audio.
That's great information. I am not an Apple guy so, honestly I don't pay attention to that end of the hobby. I am also not a Roon user any more. I should be more in tune with those subjects. I will try harder. Great post. Thank you so much.
I own the DMP-A6 and I totally agree about the touch screen. I use my iPad or iPhone to control the unit, but it is nice to see what’s currently playing displayed on the screen. BTW, one of the big selling points of the A6 for me is the native Apple Music app that allows me to play hi-res music. I think the A6 and the FiiO R7 are the only two streamers available with the Apple Music app. All the others only provide AirPlay support, which is good enough for CD quality tracks.
You make a good point David. I am not an Apple guy so I apologize that I don't cover that. Thanks for mentiong that.
I've had an ME edition for a couple months now and do enjoy it. I'm using the internal DAC running balanced into my McIntosh MAC7200 receiver. The Mac does tend to mellow the sound, but I do understand where you're coming from concerning the glare. My next step is going to feed the Mac DA1 DAC by toslink and see how that sounds. I don't have great expectations, but it'll be interesting. As a final test, I've got a JS3 coming with some Sparkos 2590 stacked pair op amps for the balanced outputs. I do expect this combination will be the most satisfying.
Keep up the great reviews!
Peter, Thank you please keep me posted on your findings. I do think the the J3 Pro is very compelling. The Eversolo is amazingly well constructed and worth ever penny. I just can't get past its sound. Running thru the MAC gear should help or maybe it will reveal more flaws? Who knows? Let me know. Thanks so much.
I have the DMP A6 Master Edition w/ the Beatechnik linear PSU upgrade, a 2TB Samsung 990 SSD and a relatively nice Pioneer USB disc drive for ripping CDs.
....and I love it.
....but the DMP A6 Master Edition is a huge price hike & overall upgrade over the regular DMP A6, so the two aren't really comparable.
I've got to believe you'd feel different if you had the DMP A6 Master Edition. It's a wonderful unit imho....
That maybe true. There have been other commenters on this thread that own the ME and are disappointed so, I am not sure I would pursue that product for review. Don't get me wrong it is built to a amazing standard. That said, subjectively I didn't find any love for it. I am very glad you enjoy yours and I do believe you got your monies worth. Thanks so much for the view and sharing your thoughts.
@@OldGuyHifi So you've had a DMP A6 Master Edition and you didn't care for it either?
I'm a bit confused.
There is a very substantial difference between the regular DMP A6 you've reviewed and the Master Edition. It's not just a gold badge. There's some way different stuff stuff going on "under the hood" with the Master Edition.
I only had the standard DMP-A6 with the upgraded power supply. Sorry for the confusion.
I am auditioning a 6 and it’s better sounding than my Bluesound Node 130. I will be auditioning on 8 and will decide which one to keep. My budget is $2K. I have a Wiim Pro Plus in another system and it’s also an excellent value for its price. Rock on.
Test A6-ME LPS vs the A8. That is more a equal to equal and you might find yourself preferring the first.
If your budget is $2k, get the DMP A6 Master Edition w/ the Beatechnik linear PSU upgrade. Toss in a 1TB Samsung 990 SSD and a nice usb disc drive for ripping CDs.
That's what I have, and I love it.
Thanks. The Eversolo was never in my sights, but interested in your thoughts. I don’t jump on bandwagons. From what I’ve learned, I’d go for the Cambridge Audio AXN10 or MXN10. That’s about the most I’d spend on a streamer and the screen is of no use to me. Thanks for an honest review. 👍🏼
Norman, Cambridge is having a sale on the AXN10 it is now $449 on Amazon. amzn.to/3Yb4UyX. Maybe now is the time? BTW That is an affiliate link. I feel awkward doing that but it is a good deal. Thank you sir.
Ed - yet another great video... I learn so much from all of your videos I think I am going to start calling you "the professor". Thanks for the time you devote to educating the community.
Jeff, You are so kind to say that. Let's stick with Ed. The professor was on Gilligan's Island. I hope all is well in your world. Thank you.
I appreciate your honesty, Ed. Another great review.
Jeffrey, I appreciate that! Thank you so much.
Great review. I have the A6 going into a Gustard R26 Dac going into a Yamaha a-s2200 with a set of Mofi SP 10. I love this setup using the Gustard external Dac. Never cared for the Sabre chips inside of the A6. Another thing, I do like the screen, but being in IT and around technology everyday I guarantee the first thing to fail on these, is the screen.
I hear that Gustard unit is very good. Nice set up. Thanks for returning.
I doubt that a screen is the first thing to fail on these 😅. I don’t remember the last time my phone’s screen or even laptop’s screen failed, unless you drop it of course. Maybe the power supply might fail first in 10 years ... just my IT opinion 🙃 I’m curious how an A8 compares to the A6 + R26 setup you have, almost similarly priced, but the sound difference? Wonder if you had a chance to hear it.. Thx!
Ivan, You make a good point. I am more concerned with the Android changing. I have not heard the A8 but I am very interested in it because it uses that AKM AK4499EXEQ+AK4191EQ hybrid chip set that I am currently a bit smitten with in the Geshelli J2S & J3 Pro units. I hope to get a chance to review it. I do have a review of another AKM chipset DAC waiting to be released that is also really good sounding. Stay tuned. Thank you so much for adding to the discussion. As always your insights are very welcome.
@@OldGuyHifi when I get my A8, I’ll modify it to accept discrete opamps and will send it to you for a review! Not kidding either, might be a few months though, stay tuned. 😎 It will have the ability to accept stock opamps for a comparison, I’ll let you open it. 😉
Ivan, That would be cool. Let me know when you are ready. Thanks so much.
I appreciate your honesty, even if it is subjective. Please keep it coming.
Thank you so much for returning to watch another video.
Great review by the way. I appreciate your honesty in product reviews.
Thank you. I calls 'em as I seez 'em.
Thank you Ed! Ivan here again.. 🙃 I wonder if the opamps used in the A6 would’ve had anything to do with the sound being a bit bright out of the A6’s DAC … just thinking outside the box here.
Also I’ve had a WiiM amp for my 2 channel TV listening for a bit now (via ARC) and for the first time-yesterday I was able to use it as a streamer with my external DAC via USB. As they just rolled out this feature in the latest update, and it used just work as an input for storage media. This was/is quite an experience - to stream and listen to music bit perfect with a DAC that I like with Sparkos in it.
The IC opamp chips leave out quite a bit of detail and dynamics in my experience, so I never cared to listen to my WiiM amp’s streaming with its internal DAC in the past.. I’m considering an open box Eversolo DMP-A8 now, but I’ll be able to roll opamps on it. Have some soldering skills for that. 😉 Thx again!!
Iven, I think, and it is my less than expert opinion, that voltage based DAC chips, i.e., ESS overall are more susceptible to noise the than current based chips the latest Velvet Sound AKM chips and that noise may be amplified by the choice of op-amp. I really think that rolling op-amps on an ESS chip won't make much of a difference. Geno Geshelli only offers op-amp socketed boards with AKM Velvet sound chips like the 4493 and 4499. I wonder if that may be a hint. I will ask an expert. I am friendly with Andrew Sparkos and we have discussed doing a podcast kind of video, talking about op-amps and their impact on circuits an sound quality. I will keep you posted . Great comment. Thx.
Ed, awesome review, as usual!!! I am more and more loving your review style and can also listen to you for hours! Why isn't your channel Blowing up????? You did me a huge solid with this video. In my budget range, i believe my money would be best spent upgrading my DAC rather than buying another sub 1k streamer. Currently using a WiiM Pro into a SMSL SU-1 DAC, that really made things sound better but i think it is my bottle neck. Using an Emotiva TA-100 integrated (which i love) powering Wharfedale Diamond 12.0 bookshelf speakers with an Emotiva SE-8 sub. I also have a Blusound Node 2i streamer that is in its box because i like the WiiM Pro (and it's app based EQ) more. I think i should invest in a Geshelli Labs J2S and go with the 4499 hybrid chip and the stock TI op amps. Thoughts???? I also have an Emotiva PT-1 pre amp and A2 amplifier that i impulse purchases because of a sale i could not pass up. Over a year has gone by and haven't opened them. Haha. The TA-100 is just so nice. But excited to try the much more powerful separated setup with bass management.
Ramone my friend, Yes. I think you will get more from a DAC upgrade than a streamer upgrade. Shh, don't tell anyone but, I thought the WiiM pro as a streamer sounded better that the Eversolo but not as good as the Cambridge MXN10. I think that the J2S with stock TI op-amps is a great choice. I could be happy with that DAC maybe forever. It is that AKM 4499 chip set that has my heart racing. BTW I just took delivery of my new reference speakers! Wharfies! Diamond 12.4s. Oh baby am I in love. Seriously in love. I may be able to get some Emotiva in for review. Still working on it. I will have a video out next week that is a comparison of the WiiM Mini, WiiM Pro, Cambridge MXN10, Eversolo DMP-A6 and the Orchard Audio Pecan PI+ Premier Streamer/DAC. Should be interesting.
@@OldGuyHifi oh wow!!! I have lots of Wharfedale speakers, all bookshelf. I have the Diamond 12.0 in my living room, the smallest and my favorite pair. They are really fantastic!!!! In my bedroom, I have the D320, and in my office closet, a pair of Reva-1, and Diamond 11.2. Also have two pairs of the Sony SSCS5 and love those too. I know, I'm a hoarder. Haha!!!!! And like seven Fosi amps. So fun!!!!I really want a pair of the Denton 85 or EVO 4.1 next. My wife is gonna kill me. I also have a brand new 25 year old pair of Boston Acoustics VR-950 floor standard in storage with a couple of Sony ES and a Denon AVRs too from the same era, in mint condition.
Ooo! BA VR-950s. Sweet! You are a sick man my friend. (Just like me.)
@@OldGuyHifi we need a support group!!!!!
Love your reviews Ed. Do you take requests?
I am thinking about a Fluance turntable and was wondering if you would do a video about your Fluance turntable.
I did view Randy The Cheap Audioman video on his Fluance turntable, and he swayed me in the direction of a Fluance.
I enjoy your videos and would love to hear your thoughts and opinion about your turntable.
Eric, Thanks for asking. I can do one but, in all honesty it would not make sense. You know what it looks like. I will give you a personal review instead. I love it. I have had many TTs in my time and one that cost $6K back in the late 80s. What a pain it was. The Fluance units are super high quality and very well built. The are a great value no doubt. I would go for the RT-82. All of them are exactly the same except for the cartridges. The OM-10 that comes on the RT-82 is way better than the OM2 Red. I hate that cart. I am not a fan of the 2 Blue either. too bright. Use the money you save on the table to buy a better cart. I recommend this one amzn.to/3W6SAx0. I own one of these that lives in my daughters system and it sounds great for the money. That cart is pre mounted on a head shell which means no installation or alignment worries and you can swap back and forth between the OM-10 and the AT-VM95EN/H. I am a big fan of AT Carts, They sound very smooth but still punchy and dynamic. I been using AT carts for probably 40 years with great results. My current one is the VM540ML/H, which is not cheap but OMG is it good sounding. Also if you want to you can upgrade the aluminum platter to the acrylic platter as the budget affords. I think the RT-82 hits the sweet spot as it is the same mechanicals and tone arm as the top line RT-85 and you save $200 that can go towards a much better cartridge. I hope that helps. I love mine and will most likely never replace it. Maybe the cart but I doubt it. Let me know if you have any other questions and ultimately what you decide to do. Thanks so much
@@OldGuyHifi thank you so much for the information. Thank you for the taking the time to reply as well.
I had Been thinking about a mid level Audio Technica.
For the moment I have an Audio Technia lp-60 that I purchased on EBay.
What I can afford for now and I am happy with the sound quality of this turntable.
Definitely going to upgrade when I can.
Thank you for your personal review . I truly appreciate you taking the time to help me out.
Thank you Ed.
Eric, You are very welcome. Please let me know what you wind up doing and if you have questions. Thanks.
Enjoy all your reviews - thanks. I currently have Rag 2 amp & JNOG2 dac w/ akm 4499 / Sparkos op amp in single end position. My goal is a 'Made in America' system. Possible speaker upgrade from my Jade 3's are next on my wishlist. Any upcoming 'Made in America' speakers reviews?
Maybe. Too soon to say for sure. The problem is that there aren't that many US speaker companies with much market presence. Klipsch is off the list. because I don't like their business model and not really their sound. I would to review some of Sean Casey's stuff. While I haven't reviewed them formally I have used Maggies in a couple of amp reviews. They are very unique but again are very niche items. I will always try to support US companies with speakers it is a challenge. Great question. Thanks so much.
Eversolo vs the Cambridge? The thousand dollar Cambridge streamer.
I'm kind of on the fence about the fancy screen myself. I sit about 8 foot from my gear, and I'm sure the screen affect is neat, but for the extra cost. Hmmm I just don't know.
Jim, save your money and go with the MXN10 and get a good DAC. For the same or less money as the big Cambridge that combo would be terrific. Right now the MXN10 is $449 new on eBay from Cambridge and pair that with a Geshelli J2 AKM4493 (which is really good) for $249.00 and you are golden.
I really like mine but it is used only as a streamer. I found the DAC to be a little dull.
Sorry to hear. That's a lot of money for just a DAC. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your experience.
Great video as usual. I have the Geshelli Labs J3 on order with the as 2590 sparkos op amps. By comparison to this A6 unit and the J2S, which sound do you prefer? Also one more question - have you tested the A6 as just a streaming transport into an external DAC? I’ve heard it really shines in that application.
I think the J2S does sound better for sure. I am convinced that this newish AKM hybrid chip set is a game changer. Eversolo must think so as well as their top unit the A8 uses it. Yes. I did test it just as a streamer and found it to be no better than the WiiM Pro. I have a video coming out next week that is a Streamer/DAC comparison where I did every combo. Great question, Thanks so much for tuning in.
@@OldGuyHifi That is good to hear about the WiiM Pro. That is my current streamer. I am hoping that the new WiiM ultra adds a firmware update to allow output to external DAC via usb to take advantage of the better clocks on some units, but I doubt I would hear a noticeable difference anyway with my gear not being that high end to begin with.
Not to challenge in a rude way, but more out of curiosity, if you're running digital out into another external DAC like the Gesheli or Bifrost, how could this unity possibly be coloring the sound in any meaningful way? Your conclusion seems to be that the unit doesn't sound good to your ears, but does the equation change if you are only using it as the streaming source?
Absolutely a fair question. Not all streamers sound the same. I did not care for the sound of the DAC in the DMP-A6 when used just as a DAC. I have this thing about Sabre DACs. How a streaming engine handles the incoming data stream can be vastly different from one device to another. For example the WiiM products lack a quality oscillator to re-clock the incoming stream. Each manufacturer designs their own engine, some based on ARM processors like the DMP-A6. They need to have a internal data buffer and firmware to re-clock and apply DSP to do noise shaping. Almost all manufacturers spend time on incoming SPDIF data but often don't concentrate as much on their outgoing signal. The assumption is made that the user will use the device as a stand alone unit. I think it may be the timing issues that all SPDIF signals suffer from that cause the sonic differences. I also think that many DAC/Streamer manufacturers are chasing specs not sound quality. Kind of like the Intel CPU Chip of the week era back in the 90s & 00s. Without some new whiz-bang gizmo you can't entice the consumer to part with their $. All of this is based on my limited knowledge of these kinds of devices circuit topologies. I have spoken to a number of designers who have expressed simialr theory's about this. I do know that some "audiophiles" claim to hear differences in network switches and the like. I am a bit of a nut anyway, but I can't hear that although it might be real. The DMP-A6 is a fine unit well built. It is just my subjective opinion on its sound. What are your thoughts? Thanks for a great question and for watching.
@@OldGuyHifi Thank you for the detailed answer, I really appreciate it. I was assuming that since the data coming into the source from a streaming platform is digital, and the output through the digital outs are digital, it didn't occur to me that the unit itself is actually processing data in between the input out and output and not just acting as a pass through. It makes more sense now that you've described it. I'm building out my first home hi-fi system (coming from car audio back in the day), and as I work things out it seems like each component has limitations in some ways (if it has a great UI it has compromised sound quality, if it has the best sound quality its compromised on outputs). Thanks for being a resource for those researching systems.
@@ethancali9301 That's interesting. I competed in IASCA back in the mid 90's when I owned a car audio store. Lot's of fun. We won some stuff too. Keep me posted on your journey, and feel free to ask any questions. Thanks.
I bought one of the very first units before the hype REALLY got going. My observations align with yours except magnified. I found the software to be way too fiddly and the built-in DAC sounded cold and hard and thin. I used it with tube gear and could never get a satisfactory sound from it. I’m not sure which was more disappointing, the user interface or the DAC. Everything about it seemed gimmicky to me, including its ability to sideload the native Apple Music and Amazon Music apps. The problem there is that those apps are developed for portrait use, but the screen (and screen mirroring required to use the apps) is landscape only so it makes navigating those apps not only laggy but also very challenging due to the screen orientation. Anyway, nice job. I’ve been enjoying your content.
Great comment. I have heard from others, not publicly mind you, that they had similar experiences with the unit. It often seems that over hyped items disappoint in the long run. I have seen it many times. I also found the app and OS to be less than intuitive. Sometimes I @dannyfannyfoodle Great comment. I have heard from others, not publicly mind you, that they had similar experiences. I think sometimes marketing considerations take precedent. I get it. You have got to sell them, you just don't need to over sell them. Thanks for great insight and observations.
Hi Ed! Great review! Ibwas wondering if you A B’d the a6 and the wiim pro as purely streamers. Im looking to get a streamer only and i like the screen art so im trying to decide between the wiim ultra and eversolo a6. If there is no difference id take the ultra. If there is the a6 also has some advantages. Dsd is the main one and it has a usb input and output while the ultra only has output. You can use it as an input for a stick but it only has one socket so its either or while a6 has two seperate usb ports. Anyway, your feedback is always welcome. Thanks!!! Going to stay with my J2 with sparkos.
Alex, Yes I did compare the two. There near as makes no difference between the two sonically as streamers. Which is a bit of a disappointment considering the cost of the A6. Go with the WiiM and save that money for some inter-connects or beer. Beer is always good! Thanks my friend.
@@OldGuyHifi thank you!! Youre finally the first reviewer to AB this scenario after so many people have been asking.
And no remote control?
I had the optional remote but I never found a use for it. I just used the app on my tablet. Jo, thanks for commenting and for watching.
Cool features….but across the room, even with my glasses, any of these small screen units are next to useless. I’m a Node user. Programmed an old remote control for volume adjustments on my restored vintage system. There’s an iPad setup on a stand next to my listening setup. After selecting the music, I sit and listen.
The comfy chair rules. Sounds like you have got it dialed in. Thanks so much for sharing your setup. Thanks for tuning in.
When did it become so darn difficult to listen to music?
Since the smart phone.
I’ve moved to all streaming music because it’s much easier than the days when I cleaned a record, cleaned the needle, used a Zerostat gun to remove static and then could start listening to an album. Switching to a different album started the process over again. That’s when listening to music was difficult IMO.
I do more & more streaming. I still love my vinyl but less often. Between Audirvana and Stream Magic I don't feel like I am missing anything. Plus I am lazy.
Very well balanced review and not at all offensive, which touches on the subject of reviewing products not arranged with the manufacturer.
I’m sure you’re aware of a recent kerfuffle with a DAC manufacturer threatening legal proceedings on a TH-cam reviewer.
My observations on the 2 occasions where legal action was threatened are:
1. The review product was not provided by the manufacturer or invited
2. No communications made to manufacturer was made asking if they welcomed review as a professional courtesy
3. The reviewer did not buy the unit and therefore no “inherent right” to review
While I think on both occasions, the manufacturer overreacted, but do sympathise their irritation. As analogue, it seems akin to someone commenting in public about my job/workmanship/professionalism without a) my invitation or b) being the customer (or boss) with the right to do so.
Would be interested if you have a take on the “rules of engagement” with the manufacturer. Perhaps make a video on your process?
If they are willing to sell it on Amazon then all bets are off. An art critic doesn't own the painting he is looking at but, he can review it negatively. Does he have the inherent right to do so? Is it required? Does the artist or owner or museum have the right to sue over an opinion? I am not a lawyer (I just play one on TV) but, the argument about inherent right is a false flag. My review will not have any impact on them what so ever.
BTW DCS is back pedaling like crazy and I think has issued a statement saying the actions were not authorized by the Sr. Mgmt. I did not say anything negative that could be construed as damaging. I clearly stated it was my opinion and as a matter of fact, I praised the product for it design and engineering. I also said it was the best ESS DAC I had ever heard. My review process is simple: I listen to a product and if I can listen for. several hours then the product has merit and I may go a bit deeper. I don't give hoot about measurements and objective data. I will let Amir do that as he is very good at it. I just don't worry about anything other than how it sounds to me. Opinions are like assholes, every asshole has one. I am the perfect example. Great comment. Thank you.
@@OldGuyHifi I don’t think you said anything controversial. Then again, neither did GoldenSound. Just unfortunate that the dCS rep had such a hair trigger.
My point is perhaps something can be learned from both dCS and Tekton experience by manufacturers and reviewers in terms of “Rules of Engagement” and “Professional Courtesy” and the suggestion that you may want to do a video as your protocol.
An art critic would have a) paid a ticket to view the piece in real life (a reproduction does not count) or b) been invited (eg invited by the hifi manufacturer). As per the opinion analogy: everyone may have one, no one needs be one about it… 😂
@@georgechirayus4865 I make a reasonable point. Thank you.
Don't appologise if something is not to your taste. If someone gets worked up because you didn't validate their choice, the problem is with them, not you.
Thank you. BTW I have subscribed to your channel as I am a bit of a car nut as well. I used race SCCA.
@@OldGuyHifi Thank you. I haven't uploaded in a while. I'm debating put some new content up based on my experiences with my 987 Boxster S. What car/classes did you run in SCCA?
It was in the earlyish to mid 80's. We ran GT2 with a tube chassis 914 with a 2.7 liter 911 engine with 6 single choke Webers and a G50 box. We did pretty well. I also ran VWs Rabbits (GTI) in the IMSA Kelly American and Champion Spark Plug Challenge series. I had to race against the Archer brothers and their factory Renault money and cars. It was a lot of fun. Old time stuff. I also did quite a few PCA track days in my 86 911. Long ago and well before kids.
I was going to buy an ever solo A8- but the manufacturer of some speakers that I love the sound of, told me he didn’t care for the A8 which everyone thinks is way better than the A6.
So I will be getting a standalone R2R DAC (abandoning Delta sigma), and will use my computer to do streaming/CD
PS I always liked Porsche 911s always thought the 914 was junk 🤣🤣 not sure how old an old guy you are, but im 57. My dad got the opportunity to race some early Porsches in the 1950s when he was stationed in white Sands, New Mexico- his buddy had a Porsche they would take to the Bonneville salt flats…
@@OldGuyHifi That 914 Sounds VERY spicy. I haven't thought about the Archer brothers in a VERY long time. But yes, those Renault Aliances were rediculous.
How can you review an item when you are not reviewing the original spec? That's a ridiculous thing to do! The world is full of fools who will tell you 'linear power supplies are always better than switching types', but that's a huge over simplification which is not supported by many of the best producers of modern Hi fi. Chord electronics for instance warns against changing its supplied switching mode supplies, as does Musical Fidelity for many of it units (such as MX stream). You ARE NOT reviewing the original equipment and so your view and a lot of this review is simply irrelevant.
Back when I set one of these up for my friend, I was pleasantly surprised by the functionality and good performance of the unit (my unit responded lightening quick to tablet control and was best used with a tablet 'mirroring' the front screen). But as you rightly point out, it does suffer from a little harshness in the higher registers. Unlike you, I do not attribute this to the ESS chip, as I've heard these chips produce much better sound in units from Auralic, which belies the attempt to paint this as a chip issue. Its the filtering that Eversolo have designed, not the hardware chip on which it runs.
However, it was very nice to return to my favoured Hugo TT2/ m scaler combo.
I really think you need to think hard about your review criteria, and review stock items, as eversolo would be well within their rights to sue based on you reviewing a modified version of their unit and not listening to it as it was supplied. You seem like a decent bloke, but you have this very wrong if this is how you conduct yourself.
Still, anything for hits eh?
I wish I enjoyed your expertise on this matter. It is obvious you are an experience audiophile. You are very welcome to express your opinion on the channel but I would insist that that you keep it respectful. I will not allow gatekeeping.
I can only review what I have available. I agree with you about the power supply not being a deciding factor. I can only express my opinion based on what is in front of me. I have been listening to outboard DACs since my first Marantz CDA-94 back in 1988. I do have some experience with these devices.
Virtually every DAC I have listened to with voltage based chips like ESS has a digital glare IN MY OPINION. As I said in my review it is just my subjective opinion. As to being sued, come on. That's that is a ridiculous statement. I did not denigrate the product. As a matter of fact I complemented it. As to your suggestion I modify my review criteria, thank you. If you don't like my reviews don't watch. Maybe start your own channel. I appreciate you comment and view. I will not respond to you again unless it is in a civil tone.
@@OldGuyHifi If you think that's uncivil that I'd suggest you have not been on the net much - I was incredulous that you reviewed a non standard item and published it and maybe my last sentence was a throw away line that was not warranted, so I appologise.
As for suing please look at the current situation with Goldensound Vs DCS here: th-cam.com/video/n3QwCSqWsBU/w-d-xo.html
His review had about 600 views. He's not the only one either and it's not just DCS
I mention it as companies are not afraid to do so and I beleive you give them some ammunition should they choose to do so by not reviewing the item they actually sell. That statement was made out of concern for you, not to be uncivil. I still hope that would never happen, but it's clearly not a ridiculous statement when its happening to two other youtube reviewers right now and my suggestion that you modify your review criteria was merely so you might avoid such concerns for the future. If that didnt come across to you then I phrased it inelegantly and I apologise. It was made in the spirit of being concerned as I'm following two cases of youtubers I respect who having issues.
I have no desire to start a review channel, my own set up, derived after over 40 years of slow building, is simply a conduit to the music and its the music I love, I do not keep any spare equipment or swap it out unless I'm seeking a lasting improvement. But I do appreciate those who will share their findings and give of themselves to help others, and had no desire to anger you, I'm sure you have a wealth of experience and experiences that will help many.
Please look at the golden sound issue if you can. I do agree it's ridiculous that a company can sue over a subjective opinion, but it's happening and I'd rather see those who review take the appropriate steps to protect rather than get silenced.
Incidentally, should you get a chance to hear some of the Auralic products based on ESS chips, then please try them and you will see they do not have to sound that way if you don't use the standard filter and program your own for the chip as Auralic do. It still not my favoured chip from the ones I've heard, but they don't have to sound a little forced and edgy as the standard filter tends to do.. of course if you have a slightly dull system it might be just what you need!
I'd rather support you than annoy you.
I appreciate your sentiment. I am also a music first guy and that is the lens that I observe and review through. If you check out this link:www.reddit.com/r/audiophile/comments/1e6882g/update_on_dac_manufacturer_dcs_vs_goldensound/? You will see that DCVS has retracted their previous statement and apparently the person who started this mess did so without senior mgmts. authorization. There will always be someone who get butt hurt with a negative review. Just look at what happened with Erin. Unfortunately incivility is the norm these days. So, let me apologize for mine. I am grateful you took the time and considered the issue with my exposure as your concern. Thank you. Let's start fresh and just enjoy the music. I will be grateful for your future comments and feedback. "Where words fail, music speaks." Hans Christian Andersen.
@@OldGuyHifi you did and said nothing wrong. people come to TH-cam comments and just say any old thing, it’s an online disease. thank you for the service of your valuable insights.
@@WeeWeeJumbo Thank you for the kind words. I like the thumbnail. I also retain my essence and only drink rain water and grain alcohol. It's the fluoride.
I’ve had my Eversolo DMP-A6 for almost a year and love it! Listen to it daily!
Rafael, As one of my OG subscribers, I honestly thought about you a lot while doing this review. I know that you are well pleased with the unit. I didn't want to offend anyone who owns one and I do believe it is well worth the money. Like Salmon, I just can't find any love for it. It is only my subjective opinion and not a meant to say that it is a bad product. It is a matter of taste. I hope you understand.
@@OldGuyHifidon’t fear, you are not loosing a subscriber! I appreciate your honesty. Different strokes for different folks!
I hardly use the touch screen, but as an Apple Music subscriber, I use casting all the time from my iPhone. Works great, but would prefer a connection like Tidal Connect. That said, I am also a roon user, mostly to be able to play the same music in both my den and my studio/office.
I am trying to sell some old gear, Onkyo Integra TX-SV919THX with the external AC-3 decoder, an Onkyo TX-NR809 and my Sony STR-AZ5000ES (which my Marantz SR8015 replaced). All in good working order!Hoping to make some money so I can buy a Cambridge EVO150 for my study.
Thanks for the great reviews.
Rafael, Thank you for your friendship. I do appreciate it. AC-3!! I haven't heard that acronym is years. That said I have an old Sherwood Newcastle (built in GB) that has connections for AC-3. We are museum pieces aren't we? eBay here you come! Thank you so much.
@@OldGuyHifi The Eversolo group is like the McIntosh group, they will defend their products and nothing else matters. For there 1st Streamer, it's killer and the A8 is in another league. I find the A6/ME a great transport.
@@joenovak6393 Joe, I get it. It is a extraordinarily well built, well engineered piece of kit. No doubt. I just didn't care for the sound. I don't get why that is a problem. I am glad you enjoy yours and really that is all that matters. Thanks for the comment and the view.
I have one and it’s best to used as a transport. I use it with a Geshelli J2 and it’s amazing!
I bet it sounds very good. That is the best way to use it. I am going to try that this weekend. My J2S just arrived so...
I love Apple Music lossless and the Eversolo DMP-A6 natively plays it.
I use the Eversolo jus as a transport. I use an external DAC Denafrips Pontus II 12th-1 and DDC Denafrips Iris 12th via I2S. I use an external preamp Parasound 2100.
My Eversolo also has the upgraded LPS by Beatechnik.
My Eversolo also has builtin music server with the 4TB storage, and I rip my CDs to it.
The Eversolo I reviewed had the same LPS. Sounds like you have a very nice set up. Congrats. Thanks for the comments.
@@OldGuyHifi Recently I discovered how the IsoAcoustics pucks improve the sound even more.
My video: th-cam.com/video/FISznh39zf4/w-d-xo.html
Thanks, great review. However you mentioned you fed it to an external DAC but didn’t mention your thoughts on this. I have this unit and feed a Pontus 2 and it sounds incredible 😊
Lester, I fed the A6 into several DACs that I found to be better than the internal DAC. I did run it with a Pontus 2 and got amazing results. I also connected it to my modified Schiit Bifrost, a Geshelli J2S and the Audiolab M-DAC+. All of them outperformed the internal DAC with the Pontus and the Bifrost rising to the top. I didn't mention all of that as the Pontus is not inexpensive, you can't buy a Bifrost like mine and the other two DACs would just have made the video, I think a bit confusing and too long in length. I hope that clarifies things. Thank you for the great question and your view.
Thanks for the reply. Very interesting and I am glad your experience with the Pontus is the same as mine. I have to say before the A6 I thought how much more could I possibly get! But the A6 as a streamer has made a huge improvement 😊
Thanks Ed! Your opinion is exactly why I enjoy your reviews. Your work is greatly appreciated. Great Review.👍👍👍
I appreciate that my friend. Have a great weekend.
I have the ME , I did a few things to improve the sound 1. Use LAN connection instead of WiFi 2. Use USB fed into my DDC then out to my DAC using I2S 3. Use Audioquest Carbon usb cable . So far no complaints.
Robert, sounds like a very nice set up. I like the Carbon USB but, I am using the Pearl due to cost. I also use the Schiit Pyst USB cable as well. Happy with both. Thanks for sharing and watching.
@@OldGuyHifi I wish I had waited a bit for the A8 which has exceptional test data and review from Stereophile ( comparable to US5K gear ) , it’s US1.5k in China where I’m living atm. Chili is around 25-30% cheaper here.
Robert, The A8 is interesting to me as it uses the same AKM AK4499EXEQ+AK4191EQ chipset that I reviewed in the Geshelli J2S & J3 Pro. I think that hybrid switched resistor type of chip has a lot of appeal for its combining multi-bit-R2R and Delta Sigma topologies and its impact on sound. I have found it to be very satisfying. I just hope the A8 uses an improved streamer scheme than the one in the A6. I also have the Orchard Audio Pecan-Pi+ Premier Streamer/DAC in for review and it uses that AKM hybrid chipset as well. That review has been shot and edited and will be out shortly. Watch this space. Thank you.
Upgrade your A6 ME with LPS. The sound difference between that and the A8 will be more of a preference type, but neither will disappoint
@@wegardfjeld3789 I had the upgraded $300 LPS from Beatechnik and still couldn't find any love for it. Good suggestion though. Thx.
The A6/ME makes a Great Transport. The A8 is at another level but I cannot wait for A7, 9 as they will learn.
I would like to hear the A8 as it has the AKM AK4499EXEQ-AK4191EQ switched resistor, R2R/Multi-Bit hybrid chipset I have been smitten with. I think it is a game changer and the next evolution of DAC chips.
Did you go balanced directly from the Eversolo to the Orchard Audio amp? That would be a great simple digital system if it sounds good. Great review. Thanks. 👍
Yes I did. It was an issue as the volume control in the software was unresponsive to fine adjustments. Also it actually sounded much better running through the Freya or EVO150. Great question and one I should have thought of addressing the video. Thank you so much for bringing that up and watching etc.
The difficulty you encountered just in its basic functions alone would make this a hard pass for me. I have no patience for items of any kind that require the user to hunt for functions or get bungled up with too many features. Nicely covered, Ed. 😊
Thanks Fred. It is very well built but as you said, I also don't want to back to school to learn how to use something.
@@OldGuyHifiCan't you just expand the screen for a sec to deal with the small text? BTW, what's the opposite of pinch? Unpinch? Depinch?
@@jimfarrell4635 Honestly, I lost interest after a couple of hours. I will try it later as the unit is not hooked up.
Great review. Would love to hear your thoughts on the DMP-A8 w/ the AKM 4499 DAC.
I recently picked one up and compared it to my Geshelli J2S Socketed and was very impressed with its performance. The Sparkos op amps in the J2S gives it a slight edge in performance, but nothing that’s noticeable unless you’re A/Bing.
I have a Starkrimson Ultra on order and am looking forward to seeing how the 2 pair up.
Errol, You are right about swapping the op-amps being a subtle difference. The OA amp and the Geshelli combo is sublime. I got my best results when I used my EVO150 as the pre-amp rather than the Freya. Now that being said I have a Sparkos tube pre-headphone amp on its way in to see what a tube can do with that amp. Should be a bundle of fun. Watch this space. Thank so much for watching and sharing your observations.
Hey Ed. Great review. My opinion on the Touch screen is a bit different. I think in the US here, where we tend to have larger livingrooms/homes, i would agree and say the touchscreen is kind of pointless, but in other countries where homes are smaller, or even in major cities here, like NYC where space is limited (400 sq ft appointments and such) , i think the touchscreen adds to the units interactivity. Thanks again for the great reviews 👍
Rick, You make a good and valid point. I must say, that I know some folks that live overseas and they just default to the tablet. So, different strokes? BTW, I will trade you subscriptions. I just sub'd to your channel. I hope we keep in touch. Thanks so much.
@@OldGuyHifi definitely!
Hi, I have the Eversolo DMP A6 master edition for two months now. Happy with it. 😀
What a good looking pup. Wesley, I am glad you enjoy it. We are all different and it just didn't fit my personal sound preference. Thanks for tuning in.
Ed, I'm older than you, we've already established that. I enjoy all of your videos even when I don't quite understand the product. Like this one. LOL I enjoy listening to your voice. I'll probably stick to my Wiim Mini and my Schiit Dac for now.
Mike, If you are happy with what you have and it brings you pleasure, than that is all that matters PERIOD... Thank you my friend.
I'm on the same page regarding the display in the front of such shelf units. I'm using a Node N130 and am quite happy with it's simple design. Although I have to turn it off entirely every day to have it function properly. (otherwise my iPhone will not connect to it or only once after turning it on from being off the grid)
I have heard similar stories from other iOS users and from Bluesound users on Android. I hope there is a solution for you. Thanks for coming back for more!
@@OldGuyHifi Oh, I thought it was just an iOS problem. Good to know thank you! I turn it off every day at the socket with a remote. Works good so far but it still is a bummer for a higher quality device. Oh well. 🤷
Hopefully there is a solution for you. Thx.
I'm interested in a product like the DMP-A6 but the response of the unit seems a little sluggish and the remote app needs work. How does it perform when retrieving music files from an external drive? My Audirvana system is fast and the remote app is great, but keeping a computer running to support it is enough to scare my wife away from playing music anymore.
It was just ok. It took a long time to index the hard drive. I agree Audirvana is fast and easy. I use a small PC like this: amzn.to/3yhCoAI and it is low power consumption and very quite for the most part. For my wife I just have her to Spotify connect directly to the EVO150 and/or the system in the family room that has a WiiM mini just for that application. She doesn't even look at the WiiM app. Keeps her happy. Great comment and thanks for tuning in.
@@OldGuyHifi I use an always on Mac Mini running the original Audirvana software and dedicated only to playing music from my personal library and from Qobuz, plus it runs a Squeezebox server to an old Logitech radio in the bedroom. Usually it works great but I've had weird Audirvana problems in the past, like muting after every song, or (rarely) playing static hiss, among other odditiess. About 2 weeks ago I finally uninstalled Audirvana and reinstalled and haven't had any issues since. But first I installed an app that stops Apple Music from always running and trying to take control over every music file.
Another "bug" is that my Denafrips Ares 12th-1 DAC goes into standby every couple weeks after the slightest power glitch, so between that and selecting the right input on the DAC and sometimes the amp too, and my wife checks out. The easy fix for the DAC is to run an extension cord to the UPS I use for internet.
I've been looking at WiiM and other products and will eventually come up with something simpler. Sorry to go on so long. Thanks for the videos!
No worries. I am a well know pontificator so your comment is just fine. I still run the OG Audirvana 3.5 on my desktop rig and it has been fine. I know that Apple can be a bit controlling. I have several friends who seem to have issues with their configurations after each Apple update. I like the WiiM product but I find the Cambridge streamers to perform better sonically. I use my MXN10 via UPNP from Audirvana Studio and it is great. Sounds good and no wires. Plus I get native Tidal, Qubuz and my local DSD files of the hard drive connect to my Audirvana Studio mini PC. Very good sound. Plus the wife loves that she can just do Spotify connect directly to the MXN10 without having to mess with any additional apps or devices. Just her phone. Let me know what you decide to do. Thank you so much for watching and sharing your experiences.
I do like the look but I’m not sure I’d pick it over the WiiM ultra, I’m honestly hoping to do my own side by side once I get a decent amp and see if my wallet agrees with my assumptions. Great job Ed and thanks to James for the loan! Hopefully the lawyers don’t come a knockin because you didn’t love it…
I am in handcuffs already. Lol. I am mildly curious about the WiiM Ultra. I am not sure I need a displays on a device that's 10-12 feet away. You know me. I would rather have sound good.
Appreciate your personal input. There are so many Dac's how to choose? I'm completely happy with my old Teac UD501 in DSD mode. Have never been able to pick an upgrade or replacement. Lots of reviews and always more $$$. Guess I will keep watching reviews and hoping to find that magical dac some day.
I get it, That may be why I have stuck that piece of Schiit I love so much. There is some new stuff out now that is pretty good but, yeah, more money.
I am always curious when someone says they are an Audirvana user. I tried both it and Roon on a 30 day trial and vastly preferred Roon. Did you try Roon?
Yes. I prefer the sound of Audirvana and I like it implementation of UPNP without having to be Roon Ready. Roon was ok. I totally et the appeal of Roon. It is very nice. I just prefer Audirvana. To each his own. Thanks for watching David. Good question.
@@OldGuyHifi Thank you. For me, Roon curates music better than any streaming service or music distribution tool. I have a very large library of locally stored FLAC on a NAS and Roon digs into that and comes up with remarkable recommendations for other artists I am not familiar with. Take care.
David, Very good point about the recommendations. I also have a ton of ripped music (aprox. 6 TB) as well and Audirvana does not make suggestions. Honestly, I don't need it too. I use Tidal & Spotify's algorithm for those duties when needed. Roon is very, very good. No question and I am glad it makes your discovery process satisfying. After all, it's the music that matters.
Lol😂 go ahead Get Down with Yore Bad Self!
Yo dog! I am fly. Just chillin in da crib waiting for the drop.
@@OldGuyHifi Ahahahahahaha You got it Rock Star...
Yeah the ESS dacs are a bit bright on mids to highs and if the amps & cables don’t have grunt with meat on bone sound range from bass to midrange, it’ll be rough system match as sounds might be too bright or as mentioned lacking bass.
Not hating on ESS entirely because I do own a Cambridge Evo 150. The ESS dac is more about implementing towards the system or unit because with the Evo 150, it was a bit bright but more toned down. But comparing the A6 and listening to an A8 which the A8 has AKM, the A6 is bright 😂.
Just out of curiosity, did you try the slow roll off function of the unit?
Typically I take the unit as it comes out of the box. I am truly not sure I can hear the difference between all those filters and if I can does it make a difference? I really don't think so. I do love my EVO150, yes I kept it, and yes the DAC is a bit bright. No question. I just run everything thru the Bifrost and the Lokius and go balanced into the EVO. Sounds great. Thanks for watching and letting me know your experience.
From what I did some research some other reviewers it does slightly help, but personally I have the DMP-A8 for testing and will find some time to test out the theory regarding the filters.
Please let me know what you find. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifi Hey~ I just came back and tried to switch around the filters for the dac.
After testing, I found that the sound profiles do change. It won’t dampen the brightness a lot, but would have more changes regarding timing of resonances such as Mid Range and Bass would show more of a prominent change like airiness and boominess.
From researching finding post/discussions it’s about preference of room and gear as well.
Personally from my tests, I like more air so I prefer Short Delay Slow Roll Off, but many suggest trying Slow roll off since it has an easier warm sounding sound.
@@Vintage_End I still have the unit so I will give that a try and see if I can hear anything. Thanks so much.
I keep trying to find a reason to replace my WIIM units. For the price and excellence, it's not gonna happen. Brother, you are doing God's work. Between you and Randy, my wife ain't gonna make it to Milan next year. Ill be happy in a 1 bed apartment, with 4 grand worth of audio excellence 😂
My wife feels her pain after 50 years with my addiction. Thank you for the kind words.
Greetings from the beautiful Emerald Coast of northwest Florida! I LOVE my Eversolo DMP A6 Master Edition & the Z8 Headphone Amp/DAC.
They are wonderfully built and very full featured. I am glad you enjoy yours. That enjoyment is all that matters. Thanks for tuning in.
WIIM is making it hard for me to get a more expensive, stand-alone unit. A J2/J3 and a WIIM Pro will pretty much set up anyone for audio goodness. Thanks, Ed. Keep it up!!
Good point Bobby-Bobby.
Great Job! I appreciate your honest review, and if that ruffles feathers, there is something wrong with them, not your review. Thanks
Thank you John. BTW your wait for the mystery DAC review will be over soon. I have been rolling op-amps and having fun with it.
Nice job, Ed. Honest and detailed review. I agree the app is less than great for usability. I personally would like to have the outputs work continuously.
Thank you Steve. I like that too. See you Sunday.
Thanks for another honest opinion. I agree with all your comments and as I don’t have many dacs to compare, I’ll just say that I like the sound enough to keep enjoying it. Cheers.
All that matters is that you like what you have and it helps/encourages you to listen to more music. Thanks for the view and comment.
Thanks again for the review and the comprehensive honesty. That was a ton of setup and analysis!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for being a subscriber.
Hi Ed. All I usually want is what the person experiences with the gear. You do just that and more. Sure its a celebrated unit for many. Good unit but not for all of us. Keep them coming.
Thanks Chris. I know James and Kelly didn't much care for it either. I will reach out to set up a Saturday for lunch. Maybe next weekend.
@@OldGuyHifi Sounds good Ed thank you.
I don't own one of these, and I have no idea how it compares to anything. But I did see several in hi-end demo systems at The Home Entertainment Show in Costa Mesa, CA, in early Jun 2024. So *somebody* out there thinks it's pretty good. Like you, I see no value at all to touch-screen on a unit. I don't even like touch-screen nav in a car. My older (2012) BMW has a control knob for some of the displays, and that's sufficient for me. BTW, my DAC is a Schiit Bifrost 2/64. But I'm interested in exploring DSD, and the Schiit DACs don't do DSD. I'm 79. Maybe I'm just showing my age, WRT touch-screen apps.
Curtis, In most DACs DSD can only be used over the USB connection. I recommend getting an inexpensive DAC like a Geshelli standard J2 AK4493 with USB for you DSD needs. Truthfully, I play DSD through my Bi-Frost via Audirvana. Audirvana converts the .dsf, ripped DSD file, to PCM and it sounds great. I have about 500 DSD rips and I barely listen to them except when I am reviewing just to make sure the device does decode .dsf. Other than that I think DSD is much ado about nothing. I am 65 and I really can't hear a difference between DSD and Redbook CD 16/44. I hope that helps. Thanks so much for asking.
@@OldGuyHifi TBH, I can't really hear the difference between MP3 (some of them, anyway) and Redbook CD. I have downloads of MP3 (320k) and Redbook-quality FLAC files of the complete recording of Mahler's Symphony No 5 with the Philadelphia Orchestra under Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Exact same recording, two different codecs. I can't hear the difference. Now, maybe a 16-year old can hear the difference ("You can't hear the difference, pops?"). I can only report what I hear at 79. But I'd like to try DSD anyway. My Bryston BDP-pi is connected to the Bifrost via USB. SPDIF coax, too. I can switch between them via the Bifrost's remote. I gather that you can't do this with the Eversolo.
Curtis, I am with you. I believe the music transcends the playback hardware. I used to love my music even on the crappy Philco AM radio in my 65 Mustang. A good song is good song, plain and simple. Enjoy it all. I love Mahler's 5th. My favorite is Lorin Maazel & the Wiener Philharmoniker on CBS. Especially the Japanese vinyl release. But the Tidal version is also very good. Let me know your opinion of that recording.
Thanks Ed
So you say.
I agree, to an extent, with your touchscreen thoughts, though I have a hifi Rose rs130 which has a monster 15 inch screen. That's big enough to see what's going on from the listening position, and is so gorgeous I can't leave it alone.
So touchscreens are fine in my view, but need to be big.
I'm also glad to see you are unafraid to go swimming against the stream and in your gentle and very polite manner you soften the blow superbly.
Kind words Mr. Farrell. Thank you. I have a bigish screen on my EVO150 but remember I have a 55" TV that use as a monitor to run Audirvana so BIG is good. I use a wireless keyboard so my fat ass doen't need to move at all. It is a good thing. Thanks for the view and great comment. Maybe re-pinched or pinched-less or pinchified. That's it.
The Rose has a HDMI out for video, but my wife would skin me if I try and put a TV in that particular living room. Must be nice though. I control everything generally from a 13inch Galaxy Tab Ultra when my own fat ass is in a mood to fester on the couch.
I get away with a lot because, when we built the house I made her a deal: I get 400 sq. feet in the basement and 5 feet of closet space and she can have the other 5000 sq. feet. I will bring the pizza and some beer and we can fester together. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifiAh, basements. All but unknown here in Scotland. Too wet. I would give an arm and a leg for a basement listening room with room treatment. I do have a second system in my study, but it lacks room treatment.
And an Eames chair. That would be nice.
You got a good deal.
Pizza and a beer sounds good, but don't drip cheese and Marinara sauce all over my Eames chair.
@@jimfarrell4635 I love an Eames chair. I wish I fit in one. At 6'4" and 17 stone it is a bit small for me and the angle makes my back sore. I am old, decrepit and on my 3rd back surgery. I have a big recliner that fits me just fine. I love Scotland. When I was a young man I played several amateur golf tournaments at Carnoustie, Muirfiled and the Royal & Ancient. Love the highlands and the people. Pretty good whiskey too. I promise not make a mess on your chair.
It may be the 714th review, buts it’s one of the best. Well done Ed!! ❤
Thank you my friend. Coming from you that is high praise.