I always thought of converters as removing information. This is so helpful to see (and hear) what they are adding. Even on my air-pods over TH-cam I heard some sheen and depth added and I wondered if it was my imagination... then you did the null test and it confirmed this is real. Thank you so much for doing this.
TH-cam does not lob off everything from 16k. The compression is surprisingly good and is also alias free. Id also say "makes things come alive", "Mojo" etc is pretty misleading. Im nearly always choosing ITB bounces vs converters (lynx, dangerous, Alpha-link tests) ABX. Its programme dependent, and ITB rendering is certainly not "lackluster" if we go by the thousands of chart topping songs that have been mixed and mastered ITB.
When mastering, Im currently going line out of my Apollo x6 into analog chain and then capturing with an AD+. I was considering getting the Convert 2 to go along with the AD+ but how would I be able to both Feed the chain and monitor if it is only a 2 channel DA? Would I need 2 convert 2's ? Or should i monitor with the convert 2 and feed the analog chain with the apollo line outs?
This is a lot of great information here. I've only recently begun studying mastering, and there's a lot of nonsense out here on the internet. I can't say confidently I hear any difference but looking at the visual analysis tools is excellent. Thanks man!
I have the Dangerous Convert -2 setup for monitoring. So I have not taken advantage of looping back to the daw to capture the converters in the actual audio file. Should I?
Question: @12:36, I see the sine wave up top, but I don't understand what you mean when you were attempting to demonstrate that it was getting "darker"... Could you please clarify?
Hi! Great video. How do you set up a DAC print? I tried to hear the difference between my Apollo 8 and pure 2, and when I reversed the phase, the sound cut out, so both bounces are the same. Would be great if you could explain where I'm going wrong.
Hmm… lots of variables here so I can’t say for sure… but sometimes the differences are very subtle and the difference between two DACs is extremely quiet (like -85dB or quieter). You could get PluginDoctor and measure your analog loop in real-time. That would help you diagnose why you seem to be getting the exact same signal twice.
Wow amazing video! Would be great to hear a few more audio demo of these three converters. The fact that I can hear the differences clearly after the TH-cam conversion in itself is a proof that why it's critical to have a hi end converter.
Nice review. I downloaded the files to do a null test. and noticed that they where not sample accurate aligned. after aligning them the results of the null where not that severe as in your examples. its mostly the high freq. that are not nulled. But thanks for the review and the files.
Nice video! I have a Lynx Hilo and a pair of PMC 6-2. , a Creme and a Bettermaker Liniter. That is all I have the rest is all ITB. Should I go next for: 1. M905 w DAC 2. Crane Song Hedd Quantum 3. Trinnov ST 2 plus MiC 4. Complete the Tegeler line of products My room is a room in a room - pretty decent sounding but with a very low celling at around 5.9 ft. The size 16 ft X 9ft X 5.9. I’m trying to focus on Mastering and mixing rather than production. Thank you!
I always try to upgrade whatever is my weakest link. So if you think it’s the sound of the room, go for Trinnov. If you think it’s monitoring, go for the Grace. If you think it’s outboard, go for the Tegeler. The Hilo is great for conversion, so probably no need for the HEDD yet.
Have you tried the Burl B2 Bomber DAC? I understand that they now have a new Opamp (BOPA8) and Iamwontering what that throws into the mix from the original BOPA1 Opamps? Thank you for your work here. It is very informative and interesting.
When you're measuring the response of the DACs, surely you're converting the analogue output back to digital via a ADC? So the measurements are skewed by the response of the ADC?
trading in my hilo for the apogee symphony mk2 which blows it away yes the hilo is neutral but i find its lacking low mids and it can sound very hard and somewhat dated keep in mind in it came out about 2011 so yea only thing i like is its routing ohhh also people has also point out that the when using hilo stand alone it sounds better than when using the usb and when i compared it does sound choked when using the usb clocking not good
So your AD converter is what takes the digital signal from your DAW and puts it into your speakers, right? If that's the case, why would you want to color that, if that color is not being added to the actual work, only to your ears while you work on it? Why not always use the cleanest option and add color to the final result instead?
Other way around. Monitoring is DA, and a separate path from the options shown in this video. But yes you are correct: you want your monitor DA to be as clean and true as possible.
I don’t have a tape machine, so all the masters I do start Digital. Songs are converted DA into my analog gear (this is the topic of this video), then AD from my analog gear back into my computer, then DA monitor out to my speakers.
That null test though...theres something wrong because the resulting cancelled file should be MUCH quieter, considering the very subtle differences between converters. Unless you time align the resulting recordings perfectly you will get very misleading results from this test.
My bad for not mentioning this in the video, I gained those null tests up a LOT just to make them easier to hear! They were very very quiet because yes, very subtle differences.
I'm just curious when you ran your test tones through near digital zero to view the harmonics created if you were you using "true" peak or just a standard meter?
absolutely brilliant video. been researching for the last few weeks too. Lynx Hilo seems appealing. Intrigued by the RME ADI Pro 2 FS Black Edition. wanted to check out the Prism Lyra 2 and the Crane Song Solaris Quantum. This video couldn't have come at a better time. Thank you. Subbed.
Great video and reference files! I’d like to get your take on AD. I’m a Lynx fan who upgraded from the Symphony I/O. On an analog level it would be interesting to see how the Dangerous AD+ fairs out against the Burl B2 Bomber ADC and the Rupert Neve Master Bus Converter.
The Neve MBC intrigues me, but the price is a bit steep and I already have a Neve MBP. I’ve heard that the Burl sounds like tape - that’s great, but iono how often I’d want to reach for that tone at the end of the analog processing chain. Dangerous AD+ is phenomenal, as is Pure2 and Hilo. HEDD piques my interest as well.
None of these mentions compare to black lion revolution 2x2 it's a nuke bomb in a small package trust me it's a jaw dropping experience I couldn't believe when I hear how it sounds
Listening to comparison on youtube, the Hilo sounds slightly brighter to me, the Convert sounds more "dense"/ less "thin" than the Hilo, the Pure sounds at around the same brightness as the Hilo...but more thin than the others.
Yes! Stay in the box. Electronic music is all about precision/quantization and all that analog does is mix up those 1’s and 0’s and make them less accurate.
@@WillBorza ohhh I see! how is that connected to your computer? Do you use any router or splitter to feed signal through different connections simultaneously?
Harmonic distortion is well below -100 dB on all converters. It's a nice observation but hardly audible. How do the clocks of these converters compare? or do you use an external master clock?
Typically I use the clock in my Hilo as master. The “on paper” stats are all low, but the way they handle complex material is something that stretches beyond numbers and statistics. Each converter has a wholly unique frequency response and dynamic character.
Yo definitely enjoy ur videos I can say I learn sooo much!! So thanks for that! Also I have a question about the cylinders u have standing up!! Never seen those is that some type of bass trap???
@@WillBorza Thank you for taking time to respond. I merely meant for each. I am relatively new (2 1/2 years) to audio. I am learning more as much as I can, as quickly as I can. However, sometimes I feel that many of us learn things as we look up product specs... find the EINs, lowest dynamic responses, and tolerances of certain equipment to provide context to us regarding other products we've seen/learned about, as comparators regarding use-case. Coming into this as a retiree, i'm sure that puts me a great deal behind the average... But, i'm using everything I can think of to catch up using relational information, and I would imagine others are as well. Thank you for creating an incredible channel, and for your wonderful content. I wish you and your wife a lovely coming weekend... Take care. :-)
@@WillBorza *Update* Apparently it's 8 months later and i'm searching something else, and your video popped up. However I have FAR more context and understanding. I've heard a number of things from different manufacturers in that time, and with the help of many content providers (especially you), I feel far more confident as I continue my evolutiion.
I'm looking to do analog summing. What are your thoughts on Lynx Aurora n? I was thinking I would use and Aurora with a Hilo as my monitoring solution.
@@WillBorza what do you think is the better choice for superior conversion out of the Apollo x16 compared to the Lynx Aurora (n) and Dangerous Convert 8
thanks for this video! can you give an opinion on UA apollo D to A converters? do you think they do a pretty good job (i know they're not the most high end converters, those are Lynx, Burl, etc) would you hear a difference in how good your speakers sound? if switch to UA from your Lynx or is the difference subtle?
If you work professionally (listening through your DA 6 or more hours every day), you will definitely hear a significant difference moving between Apollo and Hilo 👍
Love your channel man! How about the Grace m905 DAC compared to these beasts? Which one is good for precise monitoring, hearing the truth. I'm thinking about the convert2+m905 analog or m905 digital, can i bypass the m905DAC when using another DACs? expecting any advise from you :)
For a while I had the M905 DAC plugged into the Manley Backbone as an option, but I never found a song where I liked the 905 sound more than the Convert 2, Pure2 or Hilo. Of the 4, the Grace DAC is 4th place to my ears. I would probably steer you in the direction of getting a Convert 2 and m905 analog if budget is a concern. If you can afford it, go for convert 2 and 905 that can do both analog and digital.
Hi. what a nice content you made! I have a question. I want to get more analog and overtones sound. So What would you like between two DAC. 1. Burl B2 2. Convert 2 Happy Merry Christmas! 😄
Hey man! Quick question, I have the Convert 2 and I've been using it strictly for monitoring, how are you routing the signal back into the DAW? Thanks!
@@WillBorza Hey, thank you for your reply, I'm a long time uad twin user and I want to upgrade my AD/DA to integrate analog equipment for my master output. I'm literally going crazy here hehe so many options. But I can only afor Lynx Hilo or UAD X16. I guess like you have said , if the music and the engineer are good the AD/DA is not that big of a deal. Especially when we are talking about this price point high end converters. Again thanks🙏
awesome as always ! Just a question, i’m getting the Hilo and the grace controller , how have you connected these two to your system? would be amazing to see how you route everything
Definitely! Great choices btw! The Hilo is sort of my digital backbone. It connects All converters, an analog send/return from the console, and usb to the computer, plus monitor out to the Grace.
@@WillBorza ah man! Thanks for this, that makes a lot of sense! Do you have an idea of how many channels you can get out of Hilo? I’m thinking of doing some summing, but not sure if Hilo can send 16 outs via adat? Many thanks again, really appreciate what you’re doing 🙏
The whole studio is clocked off the Hilo. When I’m doing two-computer pitch/catch, the pitch computer is clocked off Dangerous Convert2. I’ve had my eye on the 10MX but it’s hard to justify that cost...
@@WillBorza I'm using my Dangerous Dbox+ for converters atm, is the quality high enough or should i get a Prism Sound Lyra 2 USB or Hilo or Pure 2? Hard to ask anyone questions? I'm getting a coleman transfer console, so I'm ditching the dbox in june. What converter would you get if you were me ie with nothing starting from scratch with what you know now? The orion 32 gen 3 looks good also? Streaky recommends the Prism Lyra? Where do I start?
If you need more than just a stereo analog loop, go for the Orion or UA Apollo. If you’re just gonna do mastering, it’s hard to beat the Hilo’s bang for your buck
My take on DACs: First of all it makes your plugins sound amazing.... High end DACs are TOTALLY worth the extra money. I love the Prism Sound Atlas...it’s actually cheap!! Considering you get 8 high quality preamps, outstanding headphone amps, and massive I/O.
Marc One is in a lower class - they don't even include their 120V Rails in that model. Something like the SPL Mercury would be comparable - I've demo'd the Mercury and it does sound phenomenal!
I know it’s “subtle” but to me converters do make an important difference and I find myself reaching for the Convert 2/Burl combo for good reason. Cool video
Very interesting! I don't know those DACs so I don't think that the name influenced me..the first recording (Hilo) is what I prefer, probably because I'm listening through my phone's speaker. Anyway, it's sounds bettery for me, at least with that track. Cheers
Cool stuff! Quick suggestion: post some HQ snippets for proper critical listening (thru a downloadable link maybe), if possible. Still able to hear the differences tho... so good job! Ps. Give us a tour of your setup, pretty interested to see how you are able to switch from a da to another with a click of a button :)
Link is now in description! And I'll do a tour soon! Here's the gist: Computer >> USB >> Lynx Hilo Lynx Hilo D to A on Input 1 of Manley Backbone Lynx Hilo AES out to Convert2 Convert2 D to A on input 2 of Manley Backbone Convert2 AES Through to Grace M905 for monitoring pre-analog signal GraceM905 AES Through to Pure2 Pure2 D to A on input 3 of Manley Backbone And then everything gets captured by Dangerous Convert-AD+ because that one blows all my other ADC options out of the water.
I’m gonna sell my lynx Hilo I know it supposed to not add or removing but in my opinion the lynx Hilo doesn’t sound 3D it has a nice wide stereo but the centre is gone I’m getting the dangerous AD + i have the Hilo with other outboard gear but it’s not worth the price
I bought a Lynx Hilo with Thunderbolt 3 - Black June 2021 in Sweetwater to improve my converter quality in the studio and add it to my mixing and mastering chain, unfortunately I cannot say that it works optimally since it leaves much to be desired in terms of the price that It is being sold, it does not work well on Mac... I have made several updates for more than a year and it works totally inconsistent with the app that commands the interface, with a lot of problems that it causes when working and producing correctly, the routings are Confused in the touch screen and the mixer works in an uncoordinated and very precarious way since one pays a super high price it does not come close to a UAD Apollo mix or other interfaces with a synchronized app command...it leaves much to be desired, I hope that they invest in offering a product with an app mixer according to the cost values... very mediocre and with a low operational level... Very frustrated to have stuck with this product lacking in technology...de I read this review so that they take this into account if you are going to buy something Lynx
I only use Mac computers with my Hilo, and have never had these issues. Both Intel and M1. Have you been able to use the touchscreen on the unit itself to get it to do what you need it to?
I always thought of converters as removing information. This is so helpful to see (and hear) what they are adding. Even on my air-pods over TH-cam I heard some sheen and depth added and I wondered if it was my imagination... then you did the null test and it confirmed this is real. Thank you so much for doing this.
I hear it. I like what the Dangerous AD has done to this piece of music. Sounds way more rounder and pleasant to hear. Analog vibes!
This was a lot more differences than I was expecting! Thanks for the video!
Glad you liked it! It's kind of amazing how much a difference just the DAC can make!
TH-cam does not lob off everything from 16k. The compression is surprisingly good and is also alias free. Id also say "makes things come alive", "Mojo" etc is pretty misleading. Im nearly always choosing ITB bounces vs converters (lynx, dangerous, Alpha-link tests) ABX. Its programme dependent, and ITB rendering is certainly not "lackluster" if we go by the thousands of chart topping songs that have been mixed and mastered ITB.
Top video. Would really like to see the A/D video and how the whole chain functions.
When mastering, Im currently going line out of my Apollo x6 into analog chain and then capturing with an AD+. I was considering getting the Convert 2 to go along with the AD+ but how would I be able to both Feed the chain and monitor if it is only a 2 channel DA? Would I need 2 convert 2's ? Or should i monitor with the convert 2 and feed the analog chain with the apollo line outs?
This is a lot of great information here. I've only recently begun studying mastering, and there's a lot of nonsense out here on the internet. I can't say confidently I hear any difference but looking at the visual analysis tools is excellent. Thanks man!
At this low level of difference even cables make a significant change in the signal. It's only electricity passing through or not?
Actually the effect of ad conversion can be quite noticeable and musical
I have the Dangerous Convert -2 setup for monitoring. So I have not taken advantage of looping back to the daw to capture the converters in the actual audio file. Should I?
And this is probably the best demonstration of what a DAC does that I've ever found on TH-cam man. Subbed for just that alone,, thank you
I’ve never tried the Loopback feature
The Expensive world of mastering it should read.
Question: @12:36, I see the sine wave up top, but I don't understand what you mean when you were attempting to demonstrate that it was getting "darker"... Could you please clarify?
Hi! Great video. How do you set up a DAC print? I tried to hear the difference between my Apollo 8 and pure 2, and when I reversed the phase, the sound cut out, so both bounces are the same. Would be great if you could explain where I'm going wrong.
Hmm… lots of variables here so I can’t say for sure… but sometimes the differences are very subtle and the difference between two DACs is extremely quiet (like -85dB or quieter).
You could get PluginDoctor and measure your analog loop in real-time. That would help you diagnose why you seem to be getting the exact same signal twice.
Could you explain your chain for the pure 2?
I only use it as a DAC not for ADC, so it receives an AES signal and converts it to analog which patches in to my Manley Backbone
Is it me or do those bell/metal/triangle (ding ding) sounds stick out much more in the Pure conversion
I would definitely characterize Pure2 as a “Bright” converter!
Wow amazing video! Would be great to hear a few more audio demo of these three converters. The fact that I can hear the differences clearly after the TH-cam conversion in itself is a proof that why it's critical to have a hi end converter.
Or two or six of ‘em haha!
Nice review. I downloaded the files to do a null test. and noticed that they where not sample accurate aligned. after aligning them the results of the null where not that severe as in your examples. its mostly the high freq. that are not nulled. But thanks for the review and the files.
Thanks for checking!
Nice video! I have a Lynx Hilo and a pair of PMC 6-2. , a Creme and a Bettermaker Liniter. That is all I have the rest is all ITB.
Should I go next for:
1. M905 w DAC
2. Crane Song Hedd Quantum
3. Trinnov ST 2 plus MiC
4. Complete the Tegeler line of products
My room is a room in a room - pretty decent sounding but with a very low celling at around 5.9 ft. The size 16 ft X 9ft X 5.9.
I’m trying to focus on Mastering and mixing rather than production.
Thank you!
I always try to upgrade whatever is my weakest link. So if you think it’s the sound of the room, go for Trinnov. If you think it’s monitoring, go for the Grace. If you think it’s outboard, go for the Tegeler. The Hilo is great for conversion, so probably no need for the HEDD yet.
What did you end up going with?
Have you tried the Burl B2 Bomber DAC? I understand that they now have a new Opamp (BOPA8) and Iamwontering what that throws into the mix from the original BOPA1 Opamps?
Thank you for your work here. It is very informative and interesting.
Always wanted to try one, never had the opportunity 😀
When you're measuring the response of the DACs, surely you're converting the analogue output back to digital via a ADC? So the measurements are skewed by the response of the ADC?
trading in my hilo for the apogee symphony mk2 which blows it away yes the hilo is neutral but i find its lacking low mids and it can sound very hard and somewhat dated keep in mind in it came out about 2011 so yea only thing i like is its routing ohhh also people has also point out that the when using hilo stand alone it sounds better than when using the usb and when i compared it does sound choked when using the usb clocking not good
Symphony Mk2 SE!!! The best!
So your AD converter is what takes the digital signal from your DAW and puts it into your speakers, right? If that's the case, why would you want to color that, if that color is not being added to the actual work, only to your ears while you work on it? Why not always use the cleanest option and add color to the final result instead?
Other way around. Monitoring is DA, and a separate path from the options shown in this video. But yes you are correct: you want your monitor DA to be as clean and true as possible.
@@WillBorza but of course! So what is the analog source?
I don’t have a tape machine, so all the masters I do start Digital. Songs are converted DA into my analog gear (this is the topic of this video), then AD from my analog gear back into my computer, then DA monitor out to my speakers.
@@WillBorza thanks for clarifying
You totally can tell through my pocket JBL! GREAT DEMO!!
Glad you like it!
Very concrete review indeed. Thank you for all your effort & sharing!! 👏🏼
Thank you for watching!
That null test though...theres something wrong because the resulting cancelled file should be MUCH quieter, considering the very subtle differences between converters. Unless you time align the resulting recordings perfectly you will get very misleading results from this test.
My bad for not mentioning this in the video, I gained those null tests up a LOT just to make them easier to hear! They were very very quiet because yes, very subtle differences.
I'm just curious when you ran your test tones through near digital zero to view the harmonics created if you were you using "true" peak or just a standard meter?
i'm circling back... If the DA is being used for playback... how are they captured (are they looped within themselves somehow)?
Which DA DAC would you recommend for best monitoring possible on high end headphones ? For producing music.
I was looking for some comparisons like this. Thank you very much.
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching!
This here is really appreciated brother.
Thanks for tuning in!
absolutely brilliant video. been researching for the last few weeks too. Lynx Hilo seems appealing. Intrigued by the RME ADI Pro 2 FS Black Edition. wanted to check out the Prism Lyra 2 and the Crane Song Solaris Quantum. This video couldn't have come at a better time. Thank you. Subbed.
Glad I made it at the right time! Thanks for watching 😊
what did you end up going with?
Great video and reference files! I’d like to get your take on AD. I’m a Lynx fan who upgraded from the Symphony I/O. On an analog level it would be interesting to see how the Dangerous AD+ fairs out against the Burl B2 Bomber ADC and the Rupert Neve Master Bus Converter.
The Neve MBC intrigues me, but the price is a bit steep and I already have a Neve MBP. I’ve heard that the Burl sounds like tape - that’s great, but iono how often I’d want to reach for that tone at the end of the analog processing chain. Dangerous AD+ is phenomenal, as is Pure2 and Hilo. HEDD piques my interest as well.
None of these mentions compare to black lion revolution 2x2 it's a nuke bomb in a small package trust me it's a jaw dropping experience I couldn't believe when I hear how it sounds
Antelope amari is better then rme adi-2 dac fs pro?
Listening to comparison on youtube, the Hilo sounds slightly brighter to me, the Convert sounds more "dense"/ less "thin" than the Hilo, the Pure sounds at around the same brightness as the Hilo...but more thin than the others.
Any recommendation for electronic music?
Yes! Stay in the box. Electronic music is all about precision/quantization and all that analog does is mix up those 1’s and 0’s and make them less accurate.
@@WillBorza Thanks!
Totally had to see all the things that tell us you’re rich. Couldn’t have learned anything without seeing any of that.
I'm glad I saw this. Thank you so much for this info
Love your studio vibe. Can you do stuff like use a DAC to print vocals, print digital reverbs, digital synths? etc.
have you had anything from prism sound?...preferred the pure 2 tho from the test
Why is no one talking about the Antelope Amari ?
dumb question but how do you switch between the converters? is that done through the grace m905 monitor controller?
There’s three input switch options on the Manley Backbone, that’s where I can quickly a/b between everything
@@WillBorza ohhh I see! how is that connected to your computer? Do you use any router or splitter to feed signal through different connections simultaneously?
Computer connects via usb to a Lynx Hilo which connects to everything else 👍
@@WillBorza awesome ! that signal flow is sick haha thanks for the informative video :))
How would you rate the Dave Hill HEDD quantum to the Pure 2?
Always wanted to hear a HEDD, never had the opportunity
Damn that convert 2 was 💥
Harmonic distortion is well below -100 dB on all converters. It's a nice observation but hardly audible. How do the clocks of these converters compare? or do you use an external master clock?
Typically I use the clock in my Hilo as master. The “on paper” stats are all low, but the way they handle complex material is something that stretches beyond numbers and statistics. Each converter has a wholly unique frequency response and dynamic character.
What are your thoughts on the H9000?
Convert8 owner here. Good choice mate.
Awesome. Period.I wonder how Amari will do it.
Thank you so much for sharing :) do you have any experient with the new RME FS DAC clock technology ? sheers!
Haven’t tried anything from RME yet
Hi sir, any experience with motu flagship converter? Anything to describe how they sounds, like the Hilo/Dangerous/Pure 2? Transparent or vibey?
Haven’t heard it personally :-) can you get a demo to try out?
any experience with Tascam products? Like the UH-7000 and DA-3000?
No not really
@@WillBorza how about the Lavry AD10?
Someday I aspire to get a Lavry Gold. I don’t know much about the AD10
how does the pure sound through the kali audios? thinking of this set up
Pure2 sounds great through any set of speakers 😀
Yo definitely enjoy ur videos I can say I learn sooo much!! So thanks for that! Also I have a question about the cylinders u have standing up!! Never seen those is that some type of bass trap???
ASC Tube Traps - they’re wildly overpriced I didn’t buy them myself. Much better to make them yourself. Thanks for watching!
I'd have LOVED if you shared model numbers so that we could search for them.
Model numbers for which? Dangerous Convert 2? Antelope Pure2? Lynx Hilo?
@@WillBorza Thank you for taking time to respond. I merely meant for each. I am relatively new (2 1/2 years) to audio. I am learning more as much as I can, as quickly as I can. However, sometimes I feel that many of us learn things as we look up product specs... find the EINs, lowest dynamic responses, and tolerances of certain equipment to provide context to us regarding other products we've seen/learned about, as comparators regarding use-case.
Coming into this as a retiree, i'm sure that puts me a great deal behind the average... But, i'm using everything I can think of to catch up using relational information, and I would imagine others are as well.
Thank you for creating an incredible channel, and for your wonderful content.
I wish you and your wife a lovely coming weekend... Take care. :-)
@@WillBorza *Update* Apparently it's 8 months later and i'm searching something else, and your video popped up. However I have FAR more context and understanding.
I've heard a number of things from different manufacturers in that time, and with the help of many content providers (especially you), I feel far more confident as I continue my evolutiion.
None of your mastering D/A converters handles 120Volt Rail technology. Could you talk about it in your next video.
Which converters (aside from SPL Mercury which handles it internally) can output to take full advantage of 120v rails?
I'm looking to do analog summing. What are your thoughts on Lynx Aurora n? I was thinking I would use and Aurora with a Hilo as my monitoring solution.
Aurora is awesome!
@@WillBorza what do you think is the better choice for superior conversion out of the Apollo x16 compared to the Lynx Aurora (n) and Dangerous Convert 8
Probably Lynx?
@@WillBorza have you tried burl audio converters?
Not yet. I’ve heard people either love ‘em or hate them.
Love this! It's amazing how musical converters have become.
thanks for this video! can you give an opinion on UA apollo D to A converters? do you think they do a pretty good job (i know they're not the most high end converters, those are Lynx, Burl, etc)
would you hear a difference in how good your speakers sound? if switch to UA from your Lynx or is the difference subtle?
If you work professionally (listening through your DA 6 or more hours every day), you will definitely hear a significant difference moving between Apollo and Hilo 👍
@@WillBorza thanks so much for your response! which DAC is your favorite? have you tried RME, any opinion on RME vs Lynx vs Burl?
Hilo for versatility, dangerous for vibe
you should check out the burl b2 dac
The Burl is super vibey, might pick one up one of these days 😂
Which USB dongle DAC are you using? Can't make it out on my phone lol.
Apogee Groove 😀
The 241 phrase is really analog sounding in convert 2. It's beautiful.
I have pure 2. Just as you said, it doesn't fit for all genre.
Love your channel man! How about the Grace m905 DAC compared to these beasts? Which one is good for precise monitoring, hearing the truth. I'm thinking about the convert2+m905 analog or m905 digital, can i bypass the m905DAC when using another DACs? expecting any advise from you :)
For a while I had the M905 DAC plugged into the Manley Backbone as an option, but I never found a song where I liked the 905 sound more than the Convert 2, Pure2 or Hilo. Of the 4, the Grace DAC is 4th place to my ears. I would probably steer you in the direction of getting a Convert 2 and m905 analog if budget is a concern. If you can afford it, go for convert 2 and 905 that can do both analog and digital.
@@WillBorza Thank you so much! If the convert2 plgged into the M905digital ver, can I avoid the double converted sound?
Yep, M905 has an AES out, which can go to your Convert2 to handle DA
@@WillBorza Perfect! Thank you sooooooooooo much :)
Hi. what a nice content you made!
I have a question. I want to get more analog and overtones sound.
So What would you like between two DAC.
1. Burl B2
2. Convert 2
Happy Merry Christmas! 😄
I’ve heard the B2 sounds like tape 👍
@@WillBorza Thank you!!!
Can you explain how you measured your DAC with plugin doctor? I want to do this with mine too , cheers man
Do you have the program? There’s a checkbox up top that says something to the effect of “test analog”
Hey man! Quick question, I have the Convert 2 and I've been using it strictly for monitoring, how are you routing the signal back into the DAW? Thanks!
I’m using the Convert AD+ for capture/record 👍. It’s excellent!
What do you think or have you try the Apollo X16 AD/DA? Cool video btw
I have a good friend, mixing engineer, who uses one. His mixes come out SPECTACULAR. But I think that’s more the ear than the gear 😉
@@WillBorza Hey, thank you for your reply, I'm a long time uad twin user and I want to upgrade my AD/DA to integrate analog equipment for my master output. I'm literally going crazy here hehe so many options. But I can only afor Lynx Hilo or UAD X16. I guess like you have said , if the music and the engineer are good the AD/DA is not that big of a deal. Especially when we are talking about this price point high end converters. Again thanks🙏
The convert 2 sound deeeeep !
I love it!
Thanks mate , great vid !!
awesome as always !
Just a question, i’m getting the Hilo and the grace controller , how have you connected these two to your system? would be amazing to see how you route everything
Definitely! Great choices btw!
The Hilo is sort of my digital backbone. It connects All converters, an analog send/return from the console, and usb to the computer, plus monitor out to the Grace.
@@WillBorza ah man! Thanks for this, that makes a lot of sense! Do you have an idea of how many channels you can get out of Hilo? I’m thinking of doing some summing, but not sure if Hilo can send 16 outs via adat?
Many thanks again, really appreciate what you’re doing 🙏
Do you have the converters running off a single clock, or is it just independent? ie Would they all test better off a good clock?
The whole studio is clocked off the Hilo. When I’m doing two-computer pitch/catch, the pitch computer is clocked off Dangerous Convert2. I’ve had my eye on the 10MX but it’s hard to justify that cost...
@@WillBorza I'm using my Dangerous Dbox+ for converters atm, is the quality high enough or should i get a Prism Sound Lyra 2 USB or Hilo or Pure 2? Hard to ask anyone questions? I'm getting a coleman transfer console, so I'm ditching the dbox in june. What converter would you get if you were me ie with nothing starting from scratch with what you know now? The orion 32 gen 3 looks good also? Streaky recommends the Prism Lyra? Where do I start?
If you need more than just a stereo analog loop, go for the Orion or UA Apollo. If you’re just gonna do mastering, it’s hard to beat the Hilo’s bang for your buck
@@WillBorza I have UA Apollo 8P already and the Dbox+ kills it, not even close. Thx for all your advice and videos, helps immensely!
My take on DACs:
First of all it makes your plugins sound amazing....
High end DACs are TOTALLY worth the extra money. I love the Prism Sound Atlas...it’s actually cheap!! Considering you get 8 high quality preamps, outstanding headphone amps, and massive I/O.
Prism is awesome!
Lavry to the world prism is good but lavry is king
Any feedback on SPL Marc One ?
Marc One is in a lower class - they don't even include their 120V Rails in that model. Something like the SPL Mercury would be comparable - I've demo'd the Mercury and it does sound phenomenal!
@@WillBorza Thank you
youtube does not lob off everything above 16k dude. That would be EXTREMELY obvious. try a sine sweep.
Love it!!! And i am looking forward to your take on AD conversion.
Thanks for watching! My current favorite AD is the Dangerous AD+
@@WillBorza Thought so - since you got it right there ;)
opinion on prism?
Very very good converters!
You have one of the most expensive bedrooms that I've ever seen.
I know it’s “subtle” but to me converters do make an important difference and I find myself reaching for the Convert 2/Burl combo for good reason. Cool video
Very interesting!
I don't know those DACs so I don't think that the name influenced me..the first recording (Hilo) is what I prefer, probably because I'm listening through my phone's speaker. Anyway, it's sounds bettery for me, at least with that track. Cheers
Thanks for watching!
Cool stuff!
Quick suggestion: post some HQ snippets for proper critical listening (thru a downloadable link maybe), if possible.
Still able to hear the differences tho... so good job!
Ps. Give us a tour of your setup, pretty interested to see how you are able to switch from a da to another with a click of a button :)
Will do!
Link is now in description!
And I'll do a tour soon! Here's the gist:
Computer >> USB >> Lynx Hilo
Lynx Hilo D to A on Input 1 of Manley Backbone
Lynx Hilo AES out to Convert2
Convert2 D to A on input 2 of Manley Backbone
Convert2 AES Through to Grace M905 for monitoring pre-analog signal
GraceM905 AES Through to Pure2
Pure2 D to A on input 3 of Manley Backbone
And then everything gets captured by Dangerous Convert-AD+ because that one blows all my other ADC options out of the water.
@@WillBorza nice one!
No Crane Song HEDD Quantum? 🤓
maybe someday. or maybe just straight to the Lavry Quintessence!
@@WillBorza ahhhh the highly regarded “Gold Standard”😁
Nice!!!
Good info, thanks
AKM AK4396... :) show-off you DAC!! :)
I’m gonna sell my lynx Hilo I know it supposed to not add or removing but in my opinion the lynx Hilo doesn’t sound 3D it has a nice wide stereo but the centre is gone I’m getting the dangerous AD + i have the Hilo with other outboard gear but it’s not worth the price
To me Pure2 sounded flat, Hilo sounded little bit boring and Convert2 exciting really. I wonder how JCF would do stand against them??
Thanx! Very nice one :)
Glad you liked it!
24 volts...you mean +24db
Yes, +24dBV. Isn’t that what the “V” stands for?
@@WillBorza +24dbu isnt 24 volts...assuming thats the output headroom of the gear you're describing.
Got it, yes you are right. And dBv and dBu are not quite the same scale but close/similar.
I bought a Lynx Hilo with Thunderbolt 3 - Black June 2021 in Sweetwater to improve my converter quality in the studio and add it to my mixing and mastering chain, unfortunately I cannot say that it works optimally since it leaves much to be desired in terms of the price that It is being sold, it does not work well on Mac... I have made several updates for more than a year and it works totally inconsistent with the app that commands the interface, with a lot of problems that it causes when working and producing correctly, the routings are Confused in the touch screen and the mixer works in an uncoordinated and very precarious way since one pays a super high price it does not come close to a UAD Apollo mix or other interfaces with a synchronized app command...it leaves much to be desired, I hope that they invest in offering a product with an app mixer according to the cost values... very mediocre and with a low operational level... Very frustrated to have stuck with this product lacking in technology...de I read this review so that they take this into account if you are going to buy something Lynx
I only use Mac computers with my Hilo, and have never had these issues. Both Intel and M1. Have you been able to use the touchscreen on the unit itself to get it to do what you need it to?
Your on every tubers channel in the comments with this same exact comment bro , dayummmm it’s sad 😂😂😂
@@vontreherumaiBH hey coward hiding in a fake youtube account, show u face… 💩💩💩😂😂🤣😂
Very interesting video, thank you
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching!
rly interesting vid...thanks!!
Glad you liked it, thanks for watching!
Nice gear ,, need to get some Atc s. Much better
i cant hear a difference i guess im not built for this
The differences are super subtle listening to the full res files. Even more so subtle when compressed to AAC for this video
🥰🥰🥰
It's all mind control hype mumbo jumbo. Don't eat the mush! Why? It's spoiled!🤣🤣🤣 your room is more important 😉