Digital Drive: REVIEW: M-Audio SuperDAC 24/96 DAC Processors by dudlew

Model:	SuperDAC 24/96
Category:	DAC Processors
Suggested Retail Price:	$299
Description:	Pro audio 24/96 DAC
Manufacturer URL:	M-Audio
Model Picture:	View

Review by dudlew ( A ) on June 21, 2003 at 17:14:47
IP Address: 205.214.205.111

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for the SuperDAC 24/96

I have had this piece of equipment for about a month now and I like it alot. My system is a lowly system that needs upgrading in many areas especially cables, but as it is the differences brought on by this DAC surprised even me.
The first thing I noticed was increased control and grip on the music. Definition improved and there wasnt a bundled mass of sound anymore when thngs get complex. The soundstage also opened up and the music had more air to it. The treble became ten times smoother yet more extended over the stock Sony and my sytem, which I thought, for what is was, sounded good, improved greatly and sounded just more realistic and Dynamic. For aggressive music the Sony initially grabs with its lack of control and more in your face presentation, but just sounds too harsh and jumbled
after a while. The bass is lighter,the midrange has a hump in the lower regions, resolution is poor and the treble is earpiercing, harsh and not verywell extended.
All in all I am happy I bought it and plan to build my source around it. I am planning to get a Marantz CD5000 to use as a transport with my new toy and hope that yields alot of listening pleasure for a long time.

Product Weakness: Wall Wart.. Anyone know of a way to upgrade this?
no rca outputs.
Product Strengths: Adds focus, definition, resolution and control to the music. Allows for more natural sound.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Pioneer A307R
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Hafler DH100
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Sony CDP-CE575
Speakers:	B&W DM601
Cables/Interconnects:	mainly stock, AR optical cable, DNM Reson Speaker cable
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	All
Room Size (LxWxH):	16 x 14 x 14
Room Comments/Treatments:	room is relatively sparse; desk, bed, thin curtains
Time Period/Length of Audition:	one month
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	APC UPS
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Wall Wart.. Anyone know of a way to upgrade this? no rca outputs.
Product Strengths:	Adds focus, definition, resolution and control to the music. Allows for more natural sound.