Another 5 star review. I own a A6 love it slow role off !. I have it paired with a Wilsenton r8. I just tube rolled with the PSVANE kt 88 you recommended and was really impressed with the increased Detail on voices and placement of instruments. On order next is the driver tubes. Thank you so much
Great review! I’ve been comparing the A6 & A8 for about a week now, and I much prefer the A8. The A6 is more digital, harsh and bright sounding. Really didn’t realize how much so until I a/b the two together. Needless to say I’m keeping the A8.
@@owisun85I think it is, but seems like most people are deaf, I heared quite the difference digital between a6 and a8 (coax AND usb). Analogue is just as much a difference.
I like watching your reviews, you are one of the few reviewers that allows us to see the inside of the product. I'm saving money to upgrade my system, I was thinking about a nice streamer/dac. The thing is, your previous video about amplifiers with built-in DAC got me thinking.
Another stellar informative review. appreciate all the information provided regarding the hardware used and the methods chosen by the manufacturer. You can’t find that information easily or so Well explained. You have a gift when it comes to detailing information that is understandable and useful. Appreciate your efforts!
GREAT Review as always, Tarun! Today I installed my NEW Volumio Rivo Streamer fresh from Italy. I am using an LHY Network Switch SW-8, and powering The Rivo with an LHY LPS50@5v Linear Power Supply. The Rivo is Streamer-only and my digital output goes into a Denafrips Pontus II DAC via A RiCable USB Cable. Color me IMPRESSED! I would ❤LOVE❤ to hear your "take" on this streamer compared to some of the items in your review today!! I replaced a Mercury Streamer V1 in my system (that’s off to the office for headphone duty 👍🏼)…I have to say…I am getting a very all-encompassing 3D Soundstage from the Rivo that in early testing is giving me goose bumps!! 😲
I’ve asked Tarun about Volumio products before and the problem seems to be that that they just don’t send out items for review it’s all direct to consumer.
@@mike_lowndes hmmm…sales people at Volumio need to watch Tarun’s reviews ….and then loan him a RIVO…I am dying to see what he thinks of it! How about you?
Hi Tarun, I am so lucky finally I got my integrated amplifier to accomplish with my new purchased PMC twenty 5 21i speakers which I got it half the price after over 5 years pursuit. Now in less than 2 months after l got my speakers, this time I got the Audia Flight FL Three S Integrated amplifier, an Italian brand which is also made in Italy, I got this one purely on luck, the retailer in Hong Kong is on clearance, it usually costs for USD$4400, now it is 60% off brand new and it is the last one and is my last day stay in Hong Kong. I am so happy, it is like dream come true, I am in heaven. The sound is incredible than before it really brings out the speakers performance to another level. Mamma mia！
Hi Tarun my friend! An excellent review as usual! Your carefully-considered findings confirm my own conclusions and am seriously considering buying the A8 as my very first streamer. I understand that the DAC section is a cut above my Topping D90 so am planning to use it for CD replay too. The trigger has been the shutdown of VHF FM here in Switzerland, threatening to deprive me of my favourite music-only classical and jazz radio stations. A bonus will be access to all the FLACs on my NAS or I could even store them on an SSD locally. I think the connectivity will offer additional configurations that I haven’t yet discovered. Did you know there’s a power supply upgrade for A6 and A8 by Singaporean LHY Audio - apparently releasing more detail and refinement. Thanks again for this great review - I’ll be taking the plunge very soon! All the best, Rob in Switzerland
A review of the Holo Audio Red streaming transport and DDC could be very interesting. There are a limited numer of reviews for that unit. But the ones there are, are generally impressed.
Wow! You do review some incredible products. I appreciate you showing us the internals, and every time I see your pointer I think it's a soldering iron. LOL This is another product that is so pretty on the inside that they should make a clear top model.
Solid review as always Tarun. 'Detail' can be a blessing and a curse - especially in digital. Ultimately left with how natural does it all seem/feel. You touch on this well and it's key. Re digital vs analogue volume - it would be interesting to get your further thoughts and experiences on this.
@@abritishaudiophile7314Agree 100%, was relying on digital volume control of my node2i for years but decided to put back in my 30 year old Rotel preamp and couldn’t believe the change, everything got better specially at lower volume levels, no more straining to hear details, no listening fatigue, just music unconstrained !
Tarun, excellent as always. Thank you for going under the hood to explain those nice innards. And for digging more deeply into use case comparisons. This all really helps discern between so many dizzying options! Trying to decide what’s all worth it, especially since many here might already have a nice dac and pre. Maybe the Volumio Rivo would be a nice one to consider looking at? See how it scales with different dacs and power supplies 🙏🏼👍🏼
Good point regarding the dizzying options available nowadays. For streamer duty, I decided to start at the bottom and work my way up...namely, I started with the WiiM Mini, and then upgraded to the WiiM Pro Plus. The latter was more natural sounding, a little more fuller and transparent, and the soundstage was a little larger, but not by much, relative to the Mini. My most recent upgrade was to add a custom, high-quality linear power supply from Pine Tree Audio that I owner allowed me to help design the aesthetics for (not the internals), and it came out amazingly well. In fact, it's the device that pops up as soon as you land on their page. Quite stunning for a power supply. But, the addition of the LPS really took the Pro Plus and my DAC to the next level. Enhanced transparency, much fuller sound that is a little warmer, and a significantly enhanced soundstage...wow! My point being that if you start at the bottom, you're in a much better position to appreciate the improvements as you move up the chain. With Ebay and US Audio Mart, it's very easy to buy and sell gear which makes doing what I just outlined doable and affordable. Good luck.
Due to the great reviews and beautifull build quality I thought the Eversolo DMP-A8 would be a great upgrade for my dac wich has no streamer.... Well... I listened for hours and hours. Tried all the settings a sources. Least worst sounding I got when playing from usb or internal memory. It plays al the notes but I can't enjoy listening to my music. I just sat there and waited for the music to come out and giving me the feeling I used to get from my system. The Eversolo seems harsh and flat. It's a pity because everything else (beside the hard clicking volume) is great about this device. It can be beatifully build and great looking but finally it comes down to enjoying your music. I switched during the listening sessions directly between my "old" dac and immediately truly enjoyed the music again.
When Tarun goes to test the MU2, he has a problem with his family. Once you hear it and you are addicted and you don't want to live without it anymore..
I've asked for u to review the A8 and u did with a great review. U just helped me to make that decision. I love how detailed ur reviews are. Thank you so much for all you do.
I spent 4 years with the Cambridge Cxn V2 , and loved how it sounded I now have Eversolo DMP-A8 , and it is another animal in comparison It's worth the extra money the sound and features are a league up soundstage is wider, there is more detail, there is more emotion and life in the sound Bass is better and you just enjoy the music more and can listen for hours App is brilliant and the whole thing oozes quality This is one I will keep for as long as I can imagine
Good to hear. I’ve been using the CXNV2 for a few years and have been eyeing an upgrade with more preamp capabilities and HDMI Arc. The A8 looks like it maybe the way to go.
Nice! I have the Eversolo DMP-A6 Master Edition (and thinking of getting that LPS upgrade that I've seen for it), and absolutely love it. However, had the DMP-A8 been available at the time I bought my DMP-A6 ME, I most likely would've gotten the DMP-A8. The only reason I got the DMP-A6 in the first place is because my old Pioneer Elite N-50 DAC/Streamer that I've had for some 10 plus years decided to crap out on me and was looking for a new DAC/Streamer to replace it. The Eversolo unit kept coming up at the time as the "one to get". That N-50 had AKM DACs and I did love the sound of it. Seeing that the DMP-A8 also has AKM DACs would've sealed the deal for me, but alas, like I said, at the time I bought my DMP-A6 ME, it did not exist yet. At this point, it is not worth it for me to "trade-in" or "upgrade" to the DMP-A8 as I am still quite happy with my DMP-A6. I guess if my DMP-A6 died or somebody came up right to me and said "I want to buy your A6", then I may get the DMP-A8, but for now, I am going to continue to enjoy my A6.
Great Review as always. Having set an A6 up for a friend for a week I'm very framiliar with that product and therefore it was great to hear your comparison - sounds like this is another winner! I didnt hear you mention the femto clocks suprisingly! As for what I'd like to hear you review, I'd love to see you review the PS Audio Air stream with its house dac - the Stellar Gold via i2s. I have an Auralic Aries G1 and if I were buying right now, the Air Stream/ Stellar combination is one I'd be very tempted by. I trust and have come to be able to 'calibrate' your tastes with my own, so I'd love to hear your opinion. Recently moved to Wharfadle Elysian 3 speakers. They are keepers and will see me out :) All bets are off for the rest of the system though!
Thanks Tarun. Great review as always, though I didn’t think you sounded all that excited about this one TBH. I would love to get your view on the Gustard A26 and a comparison to the R26 at some point.
Happy New Year and welcome back! This is a very good product from an engineering point of view. If I were to design a stremer and dac this would be. Ok, I would have added a real tube output stage. As we see, it has good quality capacitors.
Hi Tarun, great video btw.👍 It would be great If you put on test a Danish Lyngdorf digital streaming amp TDAI-1120 with its own Room perfect room corection Impresive stuff, or its larger more powerfull brother TDAI-3400. I had eversolo DMP A6, Primare NP5, Hegel 160, CXA80, Primare I30...and tbis Lyngdorf is Indeed Impressive. Peter Lyngdorf is the guy behind and his life story is indeed a piece of impressive guy behind many brands (NAD, Dali, Purifi...).
The story of lyngdorf stuff is realy interesting. I owned 1120 predicessor 2170 which had no streaming service, but still had Room perfect, was happy user for many years.
I@@abritishaudiophile7314 If you check Harley Lovegrove (Pearl Acoustics) youtube review on this Lyngdorf 1120 I believe you'll know why I suggest you to review this digital piece 👍. Keep up this kind of great work for audio enthusiasts. Greetings from Slovenia.
9:03 Genuine question here. Why not use an eARC enabled tv with the Tidal app to stream to your receiver/DAC/pre processor? You will also get Dolby Atmos music. The eversolo is about 2k for the same money you get a good TV thrown in for free.
Everything from PS Audio especially the Stellar Gold products. The Magnetar 4K Blueray Player; The Geshelli Labs Zoofa and Dayzee; the HIFi Rose 130 Streamer; and the Buchardt A10 powered speaker. Thanks for all the great content.
You're more than welcome. A few song recommendations for you: Kokoroko -Abusey Junction, Hugh Masekela 's Hi-Life; and Johnny Guitar Watson's Superman Lover@@abritishaudiophile7314
I have a gustard a26 with the same dac setup inside. Slow roll-off setting is king indeed. Amazing sound. I might swap that for the DMP-a8 pure based on all these features.
Hi Tarun, For my budget, my set up now is (WiiM Pro+LHY Audio Linear Power Supply), iFi Zen Signature One which comes with the iFi iPower MK2, Rotel A11 Tribute and Elac Unifi Reference. The iFi Signature One dac comes with the Burr Brown chip. I have an acquired taste for Burr Brown now that I can't listen to any other dac. I am enjoying my set up. Again, thank you for making these beautiful videos. I could say that I am one of the folks who have been following you from the start of your channel. Please keep doing the work. Cheers, Tiken (love from an Indian in Sydney)
I agree with the digital filter recommendation on the dpm A6 I use the same one with my master edition I found it just a tad softer and warmer at the higher end of the spectrum with no loss of detail ever solo have opened a can of worms and the other manufacturers need to catch up with the build quality ,user ability and connect ability they are fantastic products for the price
Tarun, clear and concise review as always. I am building a second system and I am considering the DMP-A8. In my reference system I run a Cary Audio DMS-700 that feeds an Accuphase E-4000. It intrigues me on how the DMP-A8 sonics would compare to the Cary Audio DMS-700 (which is over 3 times the price).
Wonderful and concise honest review. A pleasure to listen to. If you are able please do a comparison review with the Wiim Ultra. Interested to know how it favours.
@@mick7368 thank you kindly. The WiiM ultra review is below 😊👍 THINGS HAVE CHANGED! WiiM Ultra Pre/DAC/Streamer Review th-cam.com/video/WDyLJz6I5XI/w-d-xo.html
@abritishaudiophile7314 Hi Tarun, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I pray the peace and comfort of the Lord Jesus Christ for you and your family. Thankyou for the link for the Wiim Ultra review. Once again you have done a marvellous review, no biased just the facts the good and the not so good. I enjoy your reviews keep up the good work. Unlike other reviewers which are so long winded and hyped up. It is refreshing to hear your reviews. May I please ask if you can or already have done a review on the Yamaha R-N800A network receiver/streamer/integrated amplifier. Seems to me it has everything in one box. Wonder if it's any good?
@ thank you for your kind words and prayers. They are much appreciated. I haven’t heard the N-800A as yet. I need to get another Yamaha amplifier in for review 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 And how about the Audial S5 DAC while you're at it please. Would be amazing to see you do some comparisons with a TD1541A based DAC
Thanks for the video. Appreciate the comments of the A8 vs. the A6 with a DAC. To answer your question, please review a CD player. I continue to buy CDs. Just received the Dire Straits live box set with 8 discs that was just released in the US today. Peace, love and music!
Luxman D-03x + Luxman L507z integrated amp. Yep, a ridiculousv suggestion i know, but after such a great review i know that you can do it😊😊😊😊. BTW after you explained to me at Bristol Show why you use your 25 yr old speakers and amps, i tracked down a pair of your speakers and borrowed them for a month from a fellow audiophile who wasn't using his. I now truly understand why you use them and too think that they are hard to improve upon for the 'whole picture' sound. Once again thank you for an excellent review.
Thank you, Tarun. In the spirit of your earlier videos about cables (snake oil or not?), would love to hear your impressions in a video about the Wiim line.
Good Evening Tarun, what a great comparison, the A6 with the Ares 12 and the A8! I would love to see your opinion on how a WiiM pro and a Pontus, or a Venus compare with the A8? Right now I have the WiiM Pro and the Ares 12th into my McIntosh c50 out to my McIntosh mc352 out to Klipsch La Scala’s. In all honesty I have to say the WiiM/Ares12 best my vinyl set up 70% of the time. Amazing considering it’s a VPI Prime table with the 3D arm and an Ortofon Quintet Black cartridge with the Boron cantilever, about 5K (USD) setup. I am so excited to see Digital products approach and surpass Vinyl setups! I long for the day when I can pop in a CD and not wish I had the music in vinyl! I also have to say that your reviews are among my favorites, followed by John Darko, the Audiophillac, and Andrew Robinson!
Hello Tarun - This was another useful review. In response to your question for us, I would like to see you review the Bryston BD 3.1 DAC/Streamer. It’s not new but it is one of the very few DACs that supports HDMI Audio, which is attractive not only for 2 channel AV setups, but Apple TV 4K and BluRay players with HDMI audio capability. I would guess getting a unit from a UK distributor might be a challenge, though.
The Grimm audio MU2 would be nice even though I couldn't afford it even if a threw all my savings at it. The speakers in the background look interesting too.
Having watched the above excellent video on the Eversolo DMP A8, I have decided to move my existing Quad system (FM4, tuner, 306 amp, 34 control unit, CD player) to my bedroom and set up a completely new system for the rest of the house. I have £5,000 to spend, and I am happy to buy quality secondhand equipment. So, Eversolo DMP A8 streamer paired with which amplifier and speakers? Do I pair the A8 with the Eversolo AMP F2 amplifier? I am not an audiophile, I just love listening to music, sometimes loud, sometimes soft, all genres. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you so much.
Thank you Nicholas. If you are spending £5k I would do as much research as possible to hone down what sound you are looking for and what will work in your space. If you struggle, you may want to check out my Patreon 😊 www.patreon.com/abritishaudiophile
Hi Tarun, the one DAC I would be most interested in to see a review from you, would be the Musical Paradise MP-D2 Mk3 (or the latest iteration when you get to it).
I was quick to order and set up a D8 and love it. I decided to try the streaming function (USB) with my Pontus 2/12th and Athena preamp and wonderful sounding on my Parasound Jc5/Cornwall 4's. Many options to tweek a great sound. I would love to see you review the Auralic Aries 1.1 and Matrix Element S. I am most interested in the streaming quality and not their ability as a server. I'll ask for more if you could also review the Holo Audio Redbox streamer. Thank you Tarun for all you do.
Hi Tarun, great review as always!! It would be awesome if you could compare your Denafrips Ares 12th with the new Holo Audio Cyan 2 that just came out last december! Cheers from the Alps!!
I’d love to hear you review the Audial S5 DAC - a small manufacturer from Serbia, and a Sonnett Morbius dac ( a different take on R2R) and what about a Lumin Network Streamer I.e Lumin U2 mini - like your G1.1 - many people just want a quality network streamer. Speaker wise, March Audio Sointuva stand mount ( using the purify woofer) and why not there P422 stereo power amp - which you could compare with the new Hypex Nilia stereo power amp ( DIY kit ) … I am close to buying this myself. So Happy New Year to you looking forward to some good reviews
Great review Tarun! But I'm now in a muddle. My 'upgrade path' now I have power amps _was_ as follows: Volumio Rivo transport, DAC shootout between denafrips and gustard, Quad Artera or Exposure preamp. Each of these just under or over £1K each so approx £3K outlay. Instead I can have all that capability for over a grand less, in one unit. What would stop me?
Review tip - Teac VRDS-701 - CD player using inhouse developed advanced transport and Dac chips that performs very well according to users. It's also using trickle down tech from its related brand Esoteric, long famous for developing world class transports and dacs.
I would like to see a review of a tube preamplifier that can be paired effectively with a digital amplifier like the one from PURIFI. The goal is to achieve a rich and lush sound with the tubes while also maintaining control and power through the digital amp. Thank you.
Nobody has mentioned that when you select both RCA and XLR analog outputs it cuts output level on XLR by about a third. None of the SMSL, Topping, RME or Benchmarks do this. Not much volume left at moderate loud level. Would have been good to know.
Tarun - thanks for your stunning channel. I learned a lot from your Hifi tutorials (watts are not everything ;-)) and I'm really enjoying your reviews - especially about more accessible equipment. I'd love to hear what's your view on Rotel's A11 Tribute amplifier that was mentioned in one of your previous videos - there is a lot of positive opinions about it and looks like it could be a good alternative to CA CXA35.
How about a comparison of the Hegel Viking CD player (£4500) vs a Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 T transport (£2200) + a price suitable DAC. Does it make more sense to extend the budget and buy an expensive DAC / pre-amp (with an analogue volume control) and a CD transport?
Thanks again for this nice review. Well structured and concentrated on the relevant aspects. One question: How would you rate just the streaming component of the A8 in comparison to the A6? I am currently using a MacBook with a chord qutest (+ external psu) and it sounded better than a bluesound node n130 (of course) and a Pulse Mini from Innuos. Some reviews say it even sounds better than a Lumin U2.
Digital products I would like to see reviewed include streamers, particularly those that can be integrated with televisions and/or the I2S bus. In fact, I’m very curious about the whole I2S bus period. If it can be used to connect a SACD player to a DAC, and if so, how. (I own an Oppo 105D.) Topic is probably outside the scope of your reviews, but if the product you’re reviewing has an I2S port, I would find it helpful if you listed the devices with which it is compatible.
Dear Jeremiah, the problem is that usually the DSD signal we cannot get out of the SACD transport to the external DAC (except PS audio transport and PS audio DAC). But I use cheaper Sony Blu-ray player as a transport with HDMI audio output, connected to cheap Chinese HDMI / I2S extractor from e-Bay to my Denafrips Pontus II R2R DAC with I2S input. This works. I think OPPO or some third party company offered some board with I2S output for OPPO transports in the past.
@@milanstastny6799 Thank you for a response. They do sell an external extractor that works on the Oppo. I’ve also heard that Bryston DACs can accept an I2S from an SACD. The PS Audio solution is a bit rich for my blood. I bought those Oppo, in part, because, like you, I had heard they could be modified to output the digital signal directly, but I haven’t stumbled on any devices or people who are able to make the necessary modifications. I haven’t searched intensely, just followed up on leads when I come across them. It’s not a pressing matter at the moment, it just seems like such an oversight to me, that Sony would design the platform and then leave it stranded, as it were. Edit: The Oppo 105 can connect to the Internet, but the streaming services that come with the unit are limited to Pandora and Rapsody [formerly Napster]. If I could get DSD out, I don’t have anything but a Sony AV Receiver I could get it into. 🙂
Tarun, please do another music track review. I have one to share; Album is a 1966 recording by Max Roach - Drums Unlimited on Atlantic Rhino label. 1st track “The Drum Also Waltzes” on this solo listen for that beautiful rich warm sound of Roach’s, now legend, vintage sound Gretsch drums with his older well tarnished Zildjian cymbals. Tight drumhead jazz tuning is era. An excellent natural and dry recording less the reverb or compression. Perfect dynamics as played by Max’s sensitive feel. Move to track 2 “Nommo” listen for that beautiful swoosh of Max’s brush playing against Matthew’s string bass. See if your system cleanly separates the cymbal brush accents against the round string bass fingering and Freddie Hubbards trumpet. A very clean recording. Max was a known audiophile and craved good recording sound. All tracks are worth a listen. Audiophiles will love the lack of mushy artificial low end on the bass and the attack of piano keys. Qobuz has both the stereo and mono pressing. Both different. Both great. Enjoy
Thank you, Tarun for another excellent review. And as always, I appreciate the comparisons to other products. I feel that a review without comparisons is merely advertising. I'd like o see reviews of CD transports, as spinning silver discs is my preferred mode of music consumption. And wouldn't it be cool if some made a sexy looking transport? (Just saw the Hi-Fi News review of the new MoFi turntable and isn't it cool looking.)
Good review . I have bought the A8 but it's still sitting in the box , was contemplating sending it back to get the A6 ME. My outboard dac is schiit bifrost 2 .. I think I'll stick with the A8 and see what it's about
Hello Tarun and thanks for the review, excellent as always. I've had the DMP-A8 for three weeks and I'm very happy, the price-quality ratio for all Eversolo products is damn good. Since I also listen to vinyl, the preamplifier is exactly what I needed, after I sell the old amplifier I will buy a better phono preamplifier and I will stop for a while. If their amplifier, EverSolo AMP-F2, has arrived in stores at 800 euros, maybe you give it a chance. Apart from that, I want to say that I also tested the DMP-A 6, both versions and certainly the Master Edition has a better sound than the standard version, unfortunately I did not have the opportunity to test it with a good DAC, but even so connected to a class D power Classé it sounds extraordinarily good.
I’m new to streaming and am looking for a higher quality but still affordable streamer/DAC. I saw your comparison of the DMP-A6 and the Node X (very well done, btw), and now there’s the A8. I’m not sure which one I’ll eventually choose but your reviews will definitely be a key factor in my decision.
Couldn't agree with you more. I believe the A8 is designed for people who want something that's "good enough", or for people that don't have the room to do separates. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. At some point, I'll reach that level of "good enough" nirvana as well. But, with the unbelievable rate at which streamers and DACs are evolving, I prefer separates so that I can seamlessly tap into the next best thing regardless of where it comes from (e.g., streamer, DAC, clocks, etc.). I don't consider myself an early adopter, but the rate of change is so fast that I'm averaging about two upgrades per year, and that's just on the streamer and DAC front. Wow!
This brings up a question that I’ve had for a long time. Maybe I’m just not getting it. My.Innuos zennith receives access to the Internet via ethernet cable. my Innuos runs into my DAC and allows me to play ripped cds sources like Tidal . Tidal is streaming correct? Why would I need a standalone streamer then? What would it bring me at this set up doesn’t?
It seems to me your Zenith is an stand alone streamer. Probably with CD drive, internet access, USB output to DAC, internal memory storage included. You do not need anything more. It looks like it is better than Eversolo, if you do not need display, pre-amp and DSP.
TH-cam recommended your channel after I watched a few other reviews of the A8 and am I glad it did! Nicely done, thank you!
Thank you 👍
Thanks.
I am happy you talk slowly and informative.
Thank you 👍
Another 5 star review. I own a
A6 love it slow role off !. I have it paired with a Wilsenton r8. I just tube rolled with the PSVANE kt 88 you recommended and was really impressed with the increased
Detail on voices and placement of instruments. On order next is the driver tubes. Thank you so much
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Great review! I’ve been comparing the A6 & A8 for about a week now, and I much prefer the A8. The A6 is more digital, harsh and bright sounding. Really didn’t realize how much so until I a/b the two together. Needless to say I’m keeping the A8.
As a streamer digital or analogue?
Thank you for sharing 😊
I just did the same comparison I am blown away by my new A8 not even 10 hours on mine and WOW!!!!
I have A6 as streamer/dac / pre and Rotel power amp...I want A8 but is the price difference worth it?
@@owisun85I think it is, but seems like most people are deaf, I heared quite the difference digital between a6 and a8 (coax AND usb). Analogue is just as much a difference.
I like watching your reviews, you are one of the few reviewers that allows us to see the inside of the product. I'm saving money to upgrade my system, I was thinking about a nice streamer/dac. The thing is, your previous video about amplifiers with built-in DAC got me thinking.
Thank you. Their are a lot of options 😊
Another stellar informative review. appreciate all the information provided regarding the hardware used and the methods chosen by the manufacturer. You can’t find that information easily or so Well explained.
You have a gift when it comes to detailing information that is understandable and useful.
Appreciate your efforts!
As usual, straight to the point and very informative. Great review Tarun
Thank you kindly 😊👍
Danke!
Much appreciated 😊👍
GREAT Review as always, Tarun! Today I installed my NEW Volumio Rivo Streamer fresh from Italy. I am using an LHY Network Switch SW-8, and powering The Rivo with an LHY LPS50@5v Linear Power Supply. The Rivo is Streamer-only and my digital output goes into a Denafrips Pontus II DAC via A RiCable USB Cable. Color me IMPRESSED! I would ❤LOVE❤ to hear your "take" on this streamer compared to some of the items in your review today!! I replaced a Mercury Streamer V1 in my system (that’s off to the office for headphone duty 👍🏼)…I have to say…I am getting a very all-encompassing 3D Soundstage from the Rivo that in early testing is giving me goose bumps!! 😲
I’ve asked Tarun about Volumio products before and the problem seems to be that that they just don’t send out items for review it’s all direct to consumer.
Thank you. I will need to check if there is any distribution in the U.K. 😊
@@mike_lowndes hmmm…sales people at Volumio need to watch Tarun’s reviews ….and then loan him a RIVO…I am dying to see what he thinks of it! How about you?
@@abritishaudiophile7314 They only use the “direct sales” model. Like Buchardt… perhaps contacting them for a loaner?
Hi Tarun, I am so lucky finally I got my integrated amplifier to accomplish with my new purchased PMC twenty 5 21i speakers which I got it half the price after over 5 years pursuit. Now in less than 2 months after l got my speakers, this time I got the Audia Flight FL Three S Integrated amplifier, an Italian brand which is also made in Italy, I got this one purely on luck, the retailer in Hong Kong is on clearance, it usually costs for USD$4400, now it is 60% off brand new and it is the last one and is my last day stay in Hong Kong. I am so happy, it is like dream come true, I am in heaven. The sound is incredible than before it really brings out the speakers performance to another level. Mamma mia！
That is great!
Hi Tarun my friend! An excellent review as usual! Your carefully-considered findings confirm my own conclusions and am seriously considering buying the A8 as my very first streamer.
I understand that the DAC section is a cut above my Topping D90 so am
planning to use it for CD replay too.
The trigger has been the shutdown of VHF FM here in Switzerland, threatening to deprive me of my favourite music-only classical and jazz radio stations.
A bonus will be access to all the FLACs on my NAS or I could even store them on an SSD locally. I think the connectivity will offer additional configurations that I haven’t yet discovered.
Did you know there’s a power supply upgrade for A6 and A8 by Singaporean LHY Audio - apparently releasing more detail and refinement.
Thanks again for this great review - I’ll be taking the plunge very soon!
All the best, Rob in Switzerland
@@RobWhittlestone great to hear from you Rob. All the best with the new purchase 😊👍
Thanks, Tarun. nice to see all the features.
Thanks Jim 😊
A review of the Holo Audio Red streaming transport and DDC could be very interesting. There are a limited numer of reviews for that unit. But the ones there are, are generally impressed.
Thx 😊
Very interesting review. Especially well done in the comparison sections. Thank you.
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Fantastic review, very helpful. Subscribed!
@@NoBody-vs3lm thank you kindly. I appreciate your support 😊👍
Wow! You do review some incredible products. I appreciate you showing us the internals, and every time I see your pointer I think it's a soldering iron. LOL This is another product that is so pretty on the inside that they should make a clear top model.
Thank you 👍
Solid review as always Tarun. 'Detail' can be a blessing and a curse - especially in digital. Ultimately left with how natural does it all seem/feel. You touch on this well and it's key.
Re digital vs analogue volume - it would be interesting to get your further thoughts and experiences on this.
Thank you. Getting digital to sound natural isn’t easy. Relying on a digital volume control almost always makes this worse 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314Agree 100%, was relying on digital volume control of my node2i for years but decided to put back in my 30 year old Rotel preamp and couldn’t believe the change, everything got better specially at lower volume levels, no more straining to hear details, no listening fatigue, just music unconstrained !
Tarun, excellent as always. Thank you for going under the hood to explain those nice innards. And for digging more deeply into use case comparisons. This all really helps discern between so many dizzying options! Trying to decide what’s all worth it, especially since many here might already have a nice dac and pre. Maybe the Volumio Rivo would be a nice one to consider looking at? See how it scales with different dacs and power supplies 🙏🏼👍🏼
Good point regarding the dizzying options available nowadays.
For streamer duty, I decided to start at the bottom and work my way up...namely, I started with the WiiM Mini, and then upgraded to the WiiM Pro Plus. The latter was more natural sounding, a little more fuller and transparent, and the soundstage was a little larger, but not by much, relative to the Mini.
My most recent upgrade was to add a custom, high-quality linear power supply from Pine Tree Audio that I owner allowed me to help design the aesthetics for (not the internals), and it came out amazingly well. In fact, it's the device that pops up as soon as you land on their page. Quite stunning for a power supply.
But, the addition of the LPS really took the Pro Plus and my DAC to the next level. Enhanced transparency, much fuller sound that is a little warmer, and a significantly enhanced soundstage...wow!
My point being that if you start at the bottom, you're in a much better position to appreciate the improvements as you move up the chain. With Ebay and US Audio Mart, it's very easy to buy and sell gear which makes doing what I just outlined doable and affordable.
Good luck.
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Nice video as usual. I'd like to see a review of the Atoll Electronique ST300 Signature :)
Thank you 👍
Thanks for another great review Tarun,
Hope you will do a review of volumio primo soon
@@zoranjovancic9816 thank you 😊
Excellent review, clear and concise - brilliant delivery and straight up 👍👍👍
@@Petsublak thank you kindly 😊👍
Due to the great reviews and beautifull build quality I thought the Eversolo DMP-A8 would be a great upgrade for my dac wich has no streamer.... Well... I listened for hours and hours. Tried all the settings a sources. Least worst sounding I got when playing from usb or internal memory. It plays al the notes but I can't enjoy listening to my music. I just sat there and waited for the music to come out and giving me the feeling I used to get from my system. The Eversolo seems harsh and flat. It's a pity because everything else (beside the hard clicking volume) is great about this device. It can be beatifully build and great looking but finally it comes down to enjoying your music. I switched during the listening sessions directly between my "old" dac and immediately truly enjoyed the music again.
Thx for sharing your experiences 😊
Which DAC is your old DAC?
Yes, what Dac was? How was the A8 internal Dac in comparison?
Did you give the A8 time to burn in? Some say 200 hours continuous use to burn electronics in. What filter settings did you use?
Great review thanks! I would be interested in a review of the Grimm Audio MU2
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 👍
When Tarun goes to test the MU2, he has a problem with his family. Once you hear it and you are addicted and you don't want to live without it anymore..
I've asked for u to review the A8 and u did with a great review. U just helped me to make that decision. I love how detailed ur reviews are. Thank you so much for all you do.
Much appreciated. You are most welcome 😊👍
I spent 4 years with the Cambridge Cxn V2 , and loved how it sounded
I now have Eversolo DMP-A8 , and it is another animal in comparison
It's worth the extra money
the sound and features are a league up
soundstage is wider, there is more detail, there is more emotion and life in the sound
Bass is better and you just enjoy the music more and can listen for hours
App is brilliant and the whole thing oozes quality
This is one I will keep for as long as I can imagine
Great 👍
I did not expect the A8 to be that much better. Canbridge alao has a better streamer than the cx, though
Good to hear. I’ve been using the CXNV2 for a few years and have been eyeing an upgrade with more preamp capabilities and HDMI Arc. The A8 looks like it maybe the way to go.
This is what i've been waiting for! Tnx for the Info!!! 🙂 Gear: McIntosh MA 252, Camridge Cxn V2 , ELAC Vela408,
SH!T, it looks like I can't ignore this over the A6 anymore then. Looking to add the QA 3030i and a pair on Fosi V3 Mono blocks and TV.
Nice! I have the Eversolo DMP-A6 Master Edition (and thinking of getting that LPS upgrade that I've seen for it), and absolutely love it. However, had the DMP-A8 been available at the time I bought my DMP-A6 ME, I most likely would've gotten the DMP-A8. The only reason I got the DMP-A6 in the first place is because my old Pioneer Elite N-50 DAC/Streamer that I've had for some 10 plus years decided to crap out on me and was looking for a new DAC/Streamer to replace it. The Eversolo unit kept coming up at the time as the "one to get". That N-50 had AKM DACs and I did love the sound of it. Seeing that the DMP-A8 also has AKM DACs would've sealed the deal for me, but alas, like I said, at the time I bought my DMP-A6 ME, it did not exist yet. At this point, it is not worth it for me to "trade-in" or "upgrade" to the DMP-A8 as I am still quite happy with my DMP-A6. I guess if my DMP-A6 died or somebody came up right to me and said "I want to buy your A6", then I may get the DMP-A8, but for now, I am going to continue to enjoy my A6.
Thx for sharing 😊
I have an A6 ME And I running it with a Benchmark DAC W/USB sounds beautiful. Nice review as usual Thank you sir.
Thank you 👍
Totally agree with the approach of pairing a DAC with the A6.👍
@@columbiaforte876 thx 😊
Great review as you usually do, very interesting to get your views
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Great review, I knew you’d do the eversolo , it’s very popular at the minute
I hesitated but ultimately my curiosity got the better of me 😉
Great Review as always. Having set an A6 up for a friend for a week I'm very framiliar with that product and therefore it was great to hear your comparison - sounds like this is another winner! I didnt hear you mention the femto clocks suprisingly!
As for what I'd like to hear you review, I'd love to see you review the PS Audio Air stream with its house dac - the Stellar Gold via i2s. I have an Auralic Aries G1 and if I were buying right now, the Air Stream/ Stellar combination is one I'd be very tempted by. I trust and have come to be able to 'calibrate' your tastes with my own, so I'd love to hear your opinion.
Recently moved to Wharfadle Elysian 3 speakers. They are keepers and will see me out :) All bets are off for the rest of the system though!
Thank you my friend 👍
Thanks Tarun. Great review as always, though I didn’t think you sounded all that excited about this one TBH. I would love to get your view on the Gustard A26 and a comparison to the R26 at some point.
Thank you 👍
THANKS 🙏 TARUN … FOR SHOWING …THIS IS THE BEST TIME TO N
BE AN AUDIOPHILE 🤗😎💚💚💚
Thx 😊
Love the bullet point delivery.
@@Habitual_Liar thank you 😊
Happy New Year and welcome back! This is a very good product from an engineering point of view. If I were to design a stremer and dac this would be. Ok, I would have added a real tube output stage. As we see, it has good quality capacitors.
Thank you. A tube output stage would be cool 😎👍
Hi Tarun, great video btw.👍 It would be great If you put on test a Danish Lyngdorf digital streaming amp TDAI-1120 with its own Room perfect room corection Impresive stuff, or its larger more powerfull brother TDAI-3400.
I had eversolo DMP A6, Primare NP5, Hegel 160, CXA80, Primare I30...and tbis Lyngdorf is Indeed Impressive. Peter Lyngdorf is the guy behind and his life story is indeed a piece of impressive guy behind many brands (NAD, Dali, Purifi...).
Agree, TDAI1120 is great amp with many features, very underrated on market today.
I also owned DMP A6, great streamer/dac. Have to try Lyngdorf one day 🙂.
The story of lyngdorf stuff is realy interesting. I owned 1120 predicessor 2170 which had no streaming service, but still had Room perfect, was happy user for many years.
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 👍
I@@abritishaudiophile7314 If you check Harley Lovegrove (Pearl Acoustics) youtube review on this Lyngdorf 1120 I believe you'll know why I suggest you to review this digital piece 👍. Keep up this kind of great work for audio enthusiasts. Greetings from Slovenia.
9:03 Genuine question here. Why not use an eARC enabled tv with the Tidal app to stream to your receiver/DAC/pre processor? You will also get Dolby Atmos music. The eversolo is about 2k for the same money you get a good TV thrown in for free.
The TV is okay in a accessibly price system but it limitations as a digital source become apparent in more resolving systems 😊
Everything from PS Audio especially the Stellar Gold products. The Magnetar 4K Blueray Player; The Geshelli Labs Zoofa and Dayzee; the HIFi Rose 130 Streamer; and the Buchardt A10 powered speaker. Thanks for all the great content.
Thank you 😊
You're more than welcome. A few song recommendations for you: Kokoroko -Abusey Junction, Hugh Masekela 's Hi-Life; and Johnny Guitar Watson's Superman Lover@@abritishaudiophile7314
One last thing, the Atoll ST300 streaming DAC. Thanks for you time, have great day, I look forward to the next video.@@abritishaudiophile7314
Despite what Simon’s been saying about you, I appreciate your thoughtful reviews.
I have a gustard a26 with the same dac setup inside. Slow roll-off setting is king indeed. Amazing sound. I might swap that for the DMP-a8 pure based on all these features.
@@fabian2970 cool 😎
I also use the A26 with the A6 because it's a much superior DAC. Will I hear a significant difference using the A8 as a transport with the A26?
Excellent review like always !
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Hi Tarun,
For my budget, my set up now is (WiiM Pro+LHY Audio Linear Power Supply), iFi Zen Signature One which comes with the iFi iPower MK2, Rotel A11 Tribute and Elac Unifi Reference.
The iFi Signature One dac comes with the Burr Brown chip. I have an acquired taste for Burr Brown now that I can't listen to any other dac.
I am enjoying my set up.
Again, thank you for making these beautiful videos. I could say that I am one of the folks who have been following you from the start of your channel.
Please keep doing the work.
Cheers,
Tiken (love from an Indian in Sydney)
Thank you Tiken. I appreciate your support 😊👍
I agree with the digital filter recommendation on the dpm A6 I use the same one with my master edition I found it just a tad softer and warmer at the higher end of the spectrum with no loss of detail ever solo have opened a can of worms and the other manufacturers need to catch up with the build quality ,user ability and connect ability they are fantastic products for the price
Thank you for sharing your experiences 👍
I’d like to see get hold of the ps audio air lense or a sill money review on the latest vitus audio streamer and dac.
I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Tarun, clear and concise review as always. I am building a second system and I am considering the DMP-A8. In my reference system I run a Cary Audio DMS-700 that feeds an Accuphase E-4000. It intrigues me on how the DMP-A8 sonics would compare to the Cary Audio DMS-700 (which is over 3 times the price).
Cool 😎 you should also check out my Auralic Vega S1 review 👍
th-cam.com/video/qF_Kz_ngsy0/w-d-xo.html
Thanks ,great review.Just bought a A8!
Cool 😎
Wonderful and concise honest review. A pleasure to listen to. If you are able please do a comparison review with the Wiim Ultra. Interested to know how it favours.
@@mick7368 thank you kindly. The WiiM ultra review is below 😊👍
THINGS HAVE CHANGED! WiiM Ultra Pre/DAC/Streamer Review
th-cam.com/video/WDyLJz6I5XI/w-d-xo.html
@abritishaudiophile7314 Hi Tarun, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I pray the peace and comfort of the Lord Jesus Christ for you and your family. Thankyou for the link for the Wiim Ultra review. Once again you have done a marvellous review, no biased just the facts the good and the not so good. I enjoy your reviews keep up the good work. Unlike other reviewers which are so long winded and hyped up. It is refreshing to hear your reviews. May I please ask if you can or already have done a review on the Yamaha R-N800A network receiver/streamer/integrated amplifier. Seems to me it has everything in one box. Wonder if it's any good?
@ thank you for your kind words and prayers. They are much appreciated. I haven’t heard the N-800A as yet. I need to get another Yamaha amplifier in for review 😊
Would love to see a review of the Holo Audio Cyan 2 as well as the Bel Canto E1X Integrated
Thank you 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 And how about the Audial S5 DAC while you're at it please. Would be amazing to see you do some comparisons with a TD1541A based DAC
What about Lumin U2 mini ver the 8 ?
Thanks for the video. Appreciate the comments of the A8 vs. the A6 with a DAC. To answer your question, please review a CD player. I continue to buy CDs. Just received the Dire Straits live box set with 8 discs that was just released in the US today. Peace, love and music!
Thank you 😊
Luxman D-03x + Luxman L507z integrated amp. Yep, a ridiculousv suggestion i know, but after such a great review i know that you can do it😊😊😊😊. BTW after you explained to me at Bristol Show why you use your 25 yr old speakers and amps, i tracked down a pair of your speakers and borrowed them for a month from a fellow audiophile who wasn't using his. I now truly understand why you use them and too think that they are hard to improve upon for the 'whole picture' sound. Once again thank you for an excellent review.
That is great my friend. I hope you are well 😊👍
You’re simply the best ❤
Thank you kindly 😊👍
Thank you, Tarun. In the spirit of your earlier videos about cables (snake oil or not?), would love to hear your impressions in a video about the Wiim line.
Thank you 😊
I would like to know how a8 sound with new Eversolo AMP-F2 amplifier.
Great review. Thank u 😊
Thank you 👍
Good Evening Tarun, what a great comparison, the A6 with the Ares 12 and the A8! I would love to see your opinion on how a WiiM pro and a Pontus, or a Venus compare with the A8? Right now I have the WiiM Pro and the Ares 12th into my McIntosh c50 out to my McIntosh mc352 out to Klipsch La Scala’s. In all honesty I have to say the WiiM/Ares12 best my vinyl set up 70% of the time. Amazing considering it’s a VPI Prime table with the 3D arm and an Ortofon Quintet Black cartridge with the Boron cantilever, about 5K (USD) setup. I am so excited to see Digital products approach and surpass Vinyl setups! I long for the day when I can pop in a CD and not wish I had the music in vinyl! I also have to say that your reviews are among my favorites, followed by John Darko, the Audiophillac, and Andrew Robinson!
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Love the fact that you have kept the amp and speakers from way back when. Get your hands on some Swiss and German DACs up to $5k please.
Thank you 😊
Thanks Tarun for the review. How about reviewing the Denafrips Arce streamer.
I forgot about that streamer.. must be a reason why no one reviewed it
Thank you 😊
Thank you Tarun. Another well grounded review. One wonders if they might produce a master edition on this one like they did with the 6. 😎👍
i would like to hear your opinion about the Volumio Rivo Streamer. Thanks for your work!👍
Thank you 😊
I just installed mine TODAY! I am impressed! See my comment above….I love its looks and functionality!
Wonderful video. Thank you.
Much appreciated 😊👍
If my V2 is a Jaguar this must be an Astin Martin ..
Great review Tarun this is a shortlister.
Thank you 😊
It would be interesting to see Primare NP5 Prisma MKII review, hyped products are often not without reason, but some remain forgotten.
I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Hello Tarun - This was another useful review. In response to your question for us, I would like to see you review the Bryston BD 3.1 DAC/Streamer. It’s not new but it is one of the very few DACs that supports HDMI Audio, which is attractive not only for 2 channel AV setups, but Apple TV 4K and BluRay players with HDMI audio capability. I would guess getting a unit from a UK distributor might be a challenge, though.
Thank you 😊
The Grimm audio MU2 would be nice even though I couldn't afford it even if a threw all my savings at it. The speakers in the background look interesting too.
Thank you 😊
Great review Tarun! I'd like to see a review of the Lumin D3 streamer/DAC.
Thank you. Nope to the Lumin, must have been something else 😊
Having watched the above excellent video on the Eversolo DMP A8, I have decided to move my existing Quad system (FM4, tuner, 306 amp, 34 control unit, CD player) to my bedroom and set up a completely new system for the rest of the house. I have £5,000 to spend, and I am happy to buy quality secondhand equipment. So, Eversolo DMP A8 streamer paired with which amplifier and speakers? Do I pair the A8 with the Eversolo AMP F2 amplifier? I am not an audiophile, I just love listening to music, sometimes loud, sometimes soft, all genres. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you so much.
Thank you Nicholas. If you are spending £5k I would do as much research as possible to hone down what sound you are looking for and what will work in your space. If you struggle, you may want to check out my Patreon 😊
www.patreon.com/abritishaudiophile
Hi Tarun, the one DAC I would be most interested in to see a review from you, would be the Musical Paradise MP-D2 Mk3 (or the latest iteration when you get to it).
Thx 😊
And the mola mola tambuci rubbish garbage junk name dac what a POS name but masterpiece off Dac but beyond rip-off
Well done, very informative. Suggest you should review “Cabasse Abyss “ next. Thanks
Thank you 👍
Oh, good Sir, did I see the Kerr Acoustic K300? Looking forward to that review! Grea job on the A8! 👌
Thank you 👍
I was quick to order and set up a D8 and love it. I decided to try the streaming function (USB) with my Pontus 2/12th and Athena preamp and wonderful sounding on my Parasound Jc5/Cornwall 4's. Many options to tweek a great sound. I would love to see you review the Auralic Aries 1.1 and Matrix Element S. I am most interested in the streaming quality and not their ability as a server. I'll ask for more if you could also review the Holo Audio Redbox streamer. Thank you Tarun for all you do.
A review of the Rose RS130 would be nice.
Thank you 😊
Excellent review!
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Hi Tarun, great review as always!! It would be awesome if you could compare your Denafrips Ares 12th with the new Holo Audio Cyan 2 that just came out last december! Cheers from the Alps!!
Watch this space 😉
Like a hawk! 😄@@abritishaudiophile7314
I’d love to hear you review the Audial S5 DAC - a small manufacturer from Serbia, and a Sonnett Morbius dac ( a different take on R2R) and what about a Lumin Network Streamer I.e Lumin U2 mini - like your G1.1 - many people just want a quality network streamer. Speaker wise, March Audio Sointuva stand mount ( using the purify woofer) and why not there P422 stereo power amp - which you could compare with the new Hypex Nilia stereo power amp ( DIY kit ) … I am close to buying this myself. So Happy New Year to you looking forward to some good reviews
Thank you 👍
Great review Tarun! But I'm now in a muddle. My 'upgrade path' now I have power amps _was_ as follows: Volumio Rivo transport, DAC shootout between denafrips and gustard, Quad Artera or Exposure preamp. Each of these just under or over £1K each so approx £3K outlay. Instead I can have all that capability for over a grand less, in one unit. What would stop me?
Just hooked-up my Rivo today! WOW! 3-D in my system!😮 (see my comment above)…we have sooooo many great choices these days I am loving this hobby!
Thank you. Nice to have options 😊
Review tip - Teac VRDS-701 - CD player using inhouse developed advanced transport and Dac chips that performs very well according to users. It's also using trickle down tech from its related brand Esoteric, long famous for developing world class transports and dacs.
Cool 😎
Excellent review, Tarun.👍
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
I would like to see a review of a tube preamplifier that can be paired effectively with a digital amplifier like the one from PURIFI. The goal is to achieve a rich and lush sound with the tubes while also maintaining control and power through the digital amp. Thank you.
Nobody has mentioned that when you select both RCA and XLR analog outputs it cuts output level on XLR by about a third. None of the SMSL, Topping, RME or Benchmarks do this. Not much volume left at moderate loud level. Would have been good to know.
I don’t seem to have that issue.
As someone already mention, I would like to see a review of Atoll ST300. 😊
Thank you.
I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Someone should make a series on how to take full advantage of all the features and capabilities of the A8!
Agreed 😊
Tarun - thanks for your stunning channel. I learned a lot from your Hifi tutorials (watts are not everything ;-)) and I'm really enjoying your reviews - especially about more accessible equipment. I'd love to hear what's your view on Rotel's A11 Tribute amplifier that was mentioned in one of your previous videos - there is a lot of positive opinions about it and looks like it could be a good alternative to CA CXA35.
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
I will be very happy if you could review the Weiss dac 204 if possible
Thx 😊
How about a comparison of the Hegel Viking CD player (£4500) vs a Pro-Ject CD Box RS2 T transport (£2200) + a price suitable DAC. Does it make more sense to extend the budget and buy an expensive DAC / pre-amp (with an analogue volume control) and a CD transport?
Thank you 😊
Thanks again for this nice review. Well structured and concentrated on the relevant aspects.
One question: How would you rate just the streaming component of the A8 in comparison to the A6?
I am currently using a MacBook with a chord qutest (+ external psu) and it sounded better than a bluesound node n130 (of course) and a Pulse Mini from Innuos. Some reviews say it even sounds better than a Lumin U2.
Digital products I would like to see reviewed include streamers, particularly those that can be integrated with televisions and/or the I2S bus. In fact, I’m very curious about the whole I2S bus period. If it can be used to connect a SACD player to a DAC, and if so, how. (I own an Oppo 105D.) Topic is probably outside the scope of your reviews, but if the product you’re reviewing has an I2S port, I would find it helpful if you listed the devices with which it is compatible.
Thank you for the suggestion. IIS compatibility can be a minefield. There is no standard for the pin layout 😊
Dear Jeremiah, the problem is that usually the DSD signal we cannot get out of the SACD transport to the external DAC (except PS audio transport and PS audio DAC). But I use cheaper Sony Blu-ray player as a transport with HDMI audio output, connected to cheap Chinese HDMI / I2S extractor from e-Bay to my Denafrips Pontus II R2R DAC with I2S input. This works.
I think OPPO or some third party company offered some board with I2S output for OPPO transports in the past.
@@milanstastny6799 Thank you for a response. They do sell an external extractor that works on the Oppo. I’ve also heard that Bryston DACs can accept an I2S from an SACD. The PS Audio solution is a bit rich for my blood. I bought those Oppo, in part, because, like you, I had heard they could be modified to output the digital signal directly, but I haven’t stumbled on any devices or people who are able to make the necessary modifications. I haven’t searched intensely, just followed up on leads when I come across them. It’s not a pressing matter at the moment, it just seems like such an oversight to me, that Sony would design the platform and then leave it stranded, as it were.
Edit: The Oppo 105 can connect to the Internet, but the streaming services that come with the unit are limited to Pandora and Rapsody [formerly Napster]. If I could get DSD out, I don’t have anything but a Sony AV Receiver I could get it into. 🙂
This product board layout is lovely.A contrast between the Wiim and Escape M1 Air would be an interesting comparison.
Thx 😊
So if one was going for the A6 Gold edition with the upgrade PowerSupply, one should really consider getting the A8 altogether?
I haven’t tried the PS upgrade 😊
If done right, the AKM 4499/4191 DAC chipset is amazing.
What is the analog section of the A8? Is it discrete, or op-amp based?
I will need to double check but I think it is discrete 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I went back to your B-roll, and I didn't spot any op-amps. In the high level A6 they used OPA1612, I think?
Tarun, please do another music track review.
I have one to share; Album is a 1966 recording by Max Roach - Drums Unlimited on Atlantic Rhino label. 1st track “The Drum Also Waltzes” on this solo listen for that beautiful rich warm sound of Roach’s, now legend, vintage sound Gretsch drums with his older well tarnished Zildjian cymbals. Tight drumhead jazz tuning is era. An excellent natural and dry recording less the reverb or compression. Perfect dynamics as played by Max’s sensitive feel. Move to track 2 “Nommo” listen for that beautiful swoosh of Max’s brush playing against Matthew’s string bass. See if your system cleanly separates the cymbal brush accents against the round string bass fingering and Freddie Hubbards trumpet. A very clean recording. Max was a known audiophile and craved good recording sound. All tracks are worth a listen. Audiophiles will love the lack of mushy artificial low end on the bass and the attack of piano keys. Qobuz has both the stereo and mono pressing. Both different. Both great. Enjoy
You said slow roll off but tapped sharp roll off. I guess I get to try different filter settings now…
@@thomprd I didn’t have my glasses on when shooting the B-roll 😊
Very helpful review. I'd be curious to hear your review of CD/SACD transports below $1000 or so.
Thank you, Tarun for another excellent review. And as always, I appreciate the comparisons to other products. I feel that a review without comparisons is merely advertising.
I'd like o see reviews of CD transports, as spinning silver discs is my preferred mode of music consumption. And wouldn't it be cool if some made a sexy looking transport? (Just saw the Hi-Fi News review of the new MoFi turntable and isn't it cool looking.)
Thank you Gerald 😊👍
Please review the Denafrips Arce.
Thx 😊
Good review . I have bought the A8 but it's still sitting in the box , was contemplating sending it back to get the A6 ME. My outboard dac is schiit bifrost 2 .. I think I'll stick with the A8 and see what it's about
Thx 😊
Hello Tarun and thanks for the review, excellent as always. I've had the DMP-A8 for three weeks and I'm very happy, the price-quality ratio for all Eversolo products is damn good. Since I also listen to vinyl, the preamplifier is exactly what I needed, after I sell the old amplifier I will buy a better phono preamplifier and I will stop for a while. If their amplifier, EverSolo AMP-F2, has arrived in stores at 800 euros, maybe you give it a chance. Apart from that, I want to say that I also tested the DMP-A 6, both versions and certainly the Master Edition has a better sound than the standard version, unfortunately I did not have the opportunity to test it with a good DAC, but even so connected to a class D power Classé it sounds extraordinarily good.
Thank you 👍
I’m new to streaming and am looking for a higher quality but still affordable streamer/DAC. I saw your comparison of the DMP-A6 and the Node X (very well done, btw), and now there’s the A8. I’m not sure which one I’ll eventually choose but your reviews will definitely be a key factor in my decision.
How about that bent capacitor? Is there an explanation for the damage inside the unit?
That's a very well considered feature set. At this price though, I wonder if most buyers are more interested in separates.
Couldn't agree with you more. I believe the A8 is designed for people who want something that's "good enough", or for people that don't have the room to do separates. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. At some point, I'll reach that level of "good enough" nirvana as well.
But, with the unbelievable rate at which streamers and DACs are evolving, I prefer separates so that I can seamlessly tap into the next best thing regardless of where it comes from (e.g., streamer, DAC, clocks, etc.).
I don't consider myself an early adopter, but the rate of change is so fast that I'm averaging about two upgrades per year, and that's just on the streamer and DAC front. Wow!
It competes very well with separate streamer/DACs at the same price 😊
This brings up a question that I’ve had for a long time. Maybe I’m just not getting it. My.Innuos zennith receives access to the Internet via ethernet cable. my Innuos runs into my DAC and allows me to play ripped cds sources like Tidal . Tidal is streaming correct? Why would I need a standalone streamer then? What would it bring me at this set up doesn’t?
It seems to me your Zenith is an stand alone streamer. Probably with CD drive, internet access, USB output to DAC, internal memory storage included. You do not need anything more. It looks like it is better than Eversolo, if you do not need display, pre-amp and DSP.
Correct, the Zeneth is a streamer and music server in one 😊