Digital Drive: REVIEW: Wadia Digital 25 DAC Processors by rkeman

Model:	25
Category:	DAC Processors
Suggested Retail Price:	$4950
Description:	Digital to Analog Converter
Manufacturer URL:	Wadia Digital
Manufacturer URL:	Wadia Digital

Review by rkeman ( A ) on August 22, 2003 at 14:16:40
IP Address: 12.168.121.2

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for the 25

The Wadia 25 is an older (1994 -96) digital to analog converter with digital volume control. The volume control can replace a preamp if only digital sources are used, and an internal setting for overall gain is provided. There are five digital inputs with a variety of connectors (two are BNC coaxials) and one set of unbalanced (RCA) and balanced (XLR) outputs. The outputs can be used simultaneously. All volume control and source switching must be done with the remote control. There is no power switch and a standard three-prong IEC receptacle is on the rear of the unit. The 25 utilizes Wadia's proprietary upsampling (32X) technology and is built superbly, even for a high end component.

The 25 replaced an MSB DAC III with upsampling and is clearly an improvement. Those familiar with the MSB know that it provides fine performance in it's price range and is a solid value, but the Wadia 25 has a smoother, more refined, and detailed presentation. It is the antithesis of the harsh "digital" sound that many audiophiles associate with CD. The inclusion of a high quality digital volume control is icing on the cake because it can allow the preamplifier to be dispensed with in many situations.

Even given the rapid progression of digital technology over the past few years, the Wadia 25 still provides near state-of-the-art performance. For those with a substantial collection of CD's or seeking excellent 16/44.1 decoding from any source this processor should serve with distinction. The Wadia 25 (and other similar Wadia decoders and CD players) are commonly availble second-hand for much less than the original list price and provide an attractive alternative for the value conscious audiophile.

Product Weakness: No analog source switching.
Requires a remote control for operation.
Product Strengths: Extremely quiet and smooth.
Flexible configuration.
Suberb build quality.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Bryston 4BST
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Panasonic RP-91
Speakers:	SEAS Thor
Cables/Interconnects:	Vampire Wire (XLR)
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Classical and Pop
Room Size (LxWxH):	26 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	None
Time Period/Length of Audition:	Several weeks (abou 20 hrs listening)
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner