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I can't seem to decide on a good dac/amp setup. I was thinking about going for something from Schiit. Any recommendations of what I could get from Schiit for this? Simple functionality matters more to me than affordability. Something nice and simple, I'm not a huge audiophile, I just want something simple and nice sounding with a tight bass. Thanks!
VRacer111
491
Dec 2, 2017
Jack-in-the-BoxThe only experience I've had with Schiit DACs is the Bifrost (newer AKM4490 version). To me it is technically good sounding, but a little off in music feel/experience - not quite what I was wanting from the TH-X00PH, even with the modded Gustard H10 amp bringing what it does so well. Contrast that with an Audioquest Dragonfly Red (DFR) [Sabre ESS9016] feeding the H10 - the sound signature was looking for, even if the DFR has less detail compared to the Bifrost. Then I picked up a used Gustard X20U (Balanced Sabre ES9018) and have absolutely fallen in love with the music presentation of my system, especially through the modded TH-X00PH.
The X20U has detail much beyond the Bifrost, with better dynamic presentation, speed, and an organic smoothness and presentation of bass well above that of both the DFR and Bifrost. On the Gustard X20U and modded H10 combo, acoustic bass comes across as absolutely mesmerizing and electronic bass with outstanding impact and presence. Vocals have a real organic and beautifully filled quality and the highs are full of energy and detail without stepping over the line. With my HD700, the vocals are an absolutely beautiful emotional experience, and it is nearly so with the TH-X00PH as well.
So I guess what I'm saying is, my preference is a well implemented Sabre based DAC + warm leaning, clear and detailed sounding, high current low output impedance amp for a perfect compliment to the TH-X00PH. Not inexpensive though... looking at just over $1k for a heavily discounted used Gustard X20U + new H10 with Burson V6 Classic opamps replacing the stock opamps (V6 Vivids will give a more balanced, vocal forward sound with additional detail.) I also have a Schiit Loki in the chain for EQ'ing everything but the TH-X00PH (it sounds best without any EQ)...
The DFR works extremely well with the TH-X00PH as well, and is ~ $200. You'll be getting about 75% of the X20U/modded H10 experience. Pair it up with a stock Gustard H10, and for $500 you'll get about 85% of the X20U/modded H10 experience
TKYO
3
Dec 3, 2017
Jack-in-the-BoxCHORD MOJO
VRacer111I'm not looking to mod anything really. Just looking to plug and go. Thanks for the reply!
Olaipai
39
Dec 4, 2017
Jack-in-the-BoxA Schiit Fulla or go with a Schiit stack. I got Magni 3 and Modi 2 Uber. I still haven't found anything it won't run. I also don't understand why people spend thousands on DACs. Get the stack and don't look back. It is really all you would ever need. Hope it helped.
OlaipaiThank you so much!!!!
sngecko
0
Dec 29, 2017
OlaipaiAmen. Running a Modi2U->Loki->Vali2(6922)->AKG K501. Just tried the Fostex Purpleheart on the same equipment, and somehow I'll have to find $500...
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