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Selling The Ferrum OOR and Hypsos as a Set. Can sell only The OOR too. They are came back as a trade from my customer and been used about 300 hours. All in perfect like new condition and include all the packaging. We are Ferrum official distributors in Israel - HiFi Connect. Price for Set = 2200 EU negotiable Price for only OOR = 1400 UE negotiable Shipment via Fedex Express = 70$ worldwide Can declare low value if needed. Contact - Jacob +972-54-9333389 via WhatsApp

I am trying to build a hifi Headphone station for Roon streaming. This is an evolution of an earlier thread I started.... I was seeking too much in an all-in-one box and have decided to get a stand-alone tube headphone amp. I am looking for a Roon-Ready streamer/DAC to feed it. My IDEAL box would do precisely that, do it really well, and do nothing else. My research has turned up many Roon-Ready DACs, but almost all are bloated with many features I do not need (pre-amps, proprietary control software, etc). I don’t mind spending <=$2k, but I’d rather that go into a better DAC than into features I do not need. Suggestions?

Greetings, Looking for a new headphone amp for a specific situation: drive a stand-alone headphone system in a home study. No loudspeakers. Roon-Ready streaming Tidal/Qobuz/NAS will be only source. Ideally, I could find a high-end, class A tube amp with balanced phone outs,...with DAC and streamer built-in. BUT, I prefer to not compromise amp or DAC quality in order to jam all functions into a single box. 2 components would be fine. Suggestions?

Has anybody tried the Little Laps Monotor Headphone amp, how does it compare to say Lake People 109 and the Phonitor mini? Does it work well with the Sennheiser HD800? or the Audeze LCD2?

The DAC501 is Weiss Engineering's new state of the art D/A Converter with an unprecedented level of sophistication and versatility. With the DAC501 Weiss is creating a new paradigm for what used to be a black box device. A typical D/A Converter is a "set and forget" device. Not so with the DAC501. It adds a number of interesting signal processing features and sports a variety of digital inputs. Balanced, unbalanced and headphone outputs are provided. Weiss Engineering has a 30 year history in D/A Converter design. In that time span they have learned a thing or two about converter design. The DAC501 is the essence of their experiences. FEATURES Inputs AES/EBU or S/PDIF via XLR, Toslink and RCA UPnP / DLNA (via Ethernet) USB Accepted formats: PCM 44.1kHz up to 384 kHz, DSD 64x / 128x Future formats can be accommodated for via software updates Outputs Line out unbalanced on RCA connector Line out balanced on XLR connector Headphone out on 1/4" Jack Analogue One of the latest 32 bit D/A Converter chips is used Discrete output stages for both line and headphone outputs Signal Processing The DSP algorithms can be different depending on which output is selected (line or headphone). Some DSP algorithms have to work differently if they are used for headphones in comparison to speakers. Creative Equalizer - A tone control with low boost/cut, high boost/cut and mid boost/cut. Very useful to correct those recordings which do not quite fit your taste. De-Essing - The automatic removal of overly bright sibilances from human voices. The sibilance effect can be more or less pronounced depending on your speakers or room acoustics. Constant Volume - Adjusts the audio volume (loudness) to a constant value across all tracks played. Useful for "party mode" when the volume control should stay untouched. Vinyl Emulation - Get that special sonic character of a record player based playback chain. Crosstalk Cancelling (XTC) - For the playback of dummy head recordings or live recordings via speakers for an incredible live sensation. (For speaker based playback only.) Out Of Head Localization algorithm - Tries to get the music "out of your head" when listening via headphones. The goal is to achieve a similar listening sensation as one gets when listening via speakers. (For headphone based playback only.) The DAC501 is operated via the rotary encoder control on the faceplate, the touch sensitive color LCD display or the IR remote control. Some additional settings can be done via a web interface from any computer. Controls The DAC501 is operated via the rotary encoder control on the faceplate, the touch sensitive color LCD display or the IR remote control. Some additional settings can be done via a web interface from any computer. Mechanics The DAC501 has a similar size as the Weiss DAC202 unit. The DAC502 version is a larger size unit, similar to their MAN301 unit. The features of the DAC502 are the same as the ones of the DAC501. We've now begun accepting pre-orders. If you have any any questions about either DAC or would like to reserve one, please visit us at ciamara.com or give us a call a call at 1.844.CIAMARA High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

The Peachtree Audio family of stereo integrated amplifiers, speakers and DACs all follow their modern sound design philosophy. Make it sound great, make it simple and make it beautiful. They achieve a unique balance of these qualities to offer what we believe are the best integrated amplifiers with DACs, headphone amps, power amps, speakers, and USB DACs for computer audio. A Peachtree stereo system complements any environment, whether it's used for desktop audio or as the HiFi in your living room. The unique look and sound of a Peachtree is as easy on the eyes as it is to your ears. Peachtree Audio nova150 - First of a New Generation In 2007 Peachtree Audio introduced a new integrated amplifier that immediately and forever changed the amplifier landscape. This amplifier - our original Decco - was groundbreaking for its time. It had a unique industrial design with an aluminum front panel, a simple button and knob user interface and a rounded wood case finished with beautiful veneers. Inside, it housed a class A/B power amplifier, a tube buffer visible through a window in the front panel and, most significantly, a USB input with built-in DAC to accept a direct connection from a Mac or PC! "Computer audio" was born, with Peachtree's Decco and Nova amplifiers on the leading edge, and with computer audio a defining part of Peachtree's identity. We now introduce nova 2.0 . . . a completely new generation of Peachtree integrated amplifiers that reimagines the original concept and takes it to an even higher level. Nova 2.0 is the culmination of everything Peachtree has learned as a leader in computer audio, plus a few new things they hadn't gotten to - until now. To take full advantage of the new engineering team, Peachtree moved the nova from a reputable manufacturer in China, to one of most skilled in micro and macro electronics manufacturer Canada. Peachtree will still have product like deepblue, remote controls, BT1 and the like manufactured in the far east, but the most complicated and important core product like nova have the advantage of the new factory. Peachtree PCB’s have been very nice the last few years, but by electrical standards, the new PCB’s are like electronic jewelry. And the grounding system is now better than ever allowing totally silent circuits to do their job. The new factory actually specializes in high-end medical equipment. The kind of equipment that if there’s noise on the line, or if it fails, people die. As detailed and complicated as the 2.0 circuits are, this facility was the perfect choice. The Integrated Amplifier… Reimagined Highlights ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD (double-DSD) compatibility New generation ICEPower amplification - 150 watts per channel Extensive internal grounding Designed by a world-class engineering team Asynchronous USB, Coax and (2) Optical inputs Asynchronous iOS input for direct digital input from Apple Lightning devices Phono (MM) input Home Theater Bypass Loop feature to add an external tube buffer, EQ or other processor into the signal path Discrete, custom-designed headphone amplifier Optional Wi-Fi module to be announced Available in Gloss Ebony Mocha, Natural Santos Rosewood and Piano Black Made in North America Stunning Results Peachtree Audio takes great pride in what they have accomplished with the new nova150. It accommodates virtually every type of music source people use today, from spinning vinyl at home to streaming audio from the cloud. They've ushered in an impressive new suite of technological advancements - from the DAC through the power amplifier and at every step in between. This new nova is designed around tried and true audio engineering philosophies to ensure exceptional sound quality and superb measured performance across the board. The new novas - there are more to come! - are truly the most beautiful and exceptional sounding products Peachtree Audio has ever made and are every bit deserving of the designation nova 2.0. We hope you choose to make one a part of your musical life. We are confident that if you do, you will love it! "Simply stated, If you haven’t heard Peachtree 2.0, you haven’t heard Peachtree." This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back in points when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program 1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272) High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

Auralic Taurus MKII Balanced Headphone Amp(Sale Price $1329, reg retail $1899) SALE - SAVE $480 on the $1899 Retail Price From Now Until January 31st Begins from the pursuit of an extraordinary amplifier that can well match with modern top quality headphones, inspired by the soul of Rupert Neve's legendary design philosophy, bearing with modern simplism style appearance, TAURUS MKII is born with a perfect coalescence of classic and pop elements. The smooth, rich and detailed voice of TAURUS MKII is a succession of AURALiC’s elegant and graceful aesthetic taste. Referring to Neve analog console’s circuit design, AURALiC invent the ORFEO Class-A output module and fit them into TAURUS MKII. The ORFEO module offers great driving ability by delivers 1000mW (600ohm) to 4500mW (32ohm) power into various loads; this allows TAURUS MKII to squeeze out every headphone’s capabilities, unfold the beauty of their unique sonic style. Resorting to the ultra low noise input buffer tailored by AURALiC, TAURUS MKII has a wide dynamic range greater than 130dB while maintains the output noise less than 5uV. With such astonishing performance, TAURUS is able to capture the most tiny music expression coming from the source component. The TAURUS MKII builds on the design of the original award-winning TAURUS, launched in 2010, by concentrating all surface-mounted components in an audio signal patch. It also increased the TAURUS’ EMI shielding, reducing noise from the input buffer to 0.8uV, less than half the level of the original. Additionally, AURALiC improved the input switch circuit to increase the isolation among different input channels, which boosts performance when the TAURUS MKII is connected to multiple sources. Smoothed music expression, sophisticated circuit design and brilliant appearance; TAURUS MKII is another exemplary works designed by AURALiC. High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

Peachtree Audio's BLACK FRIDAY SALE will begin Wednesday, November 16th and continue through Monday, November 28th. Save up to $399 on the following specials Peachtree Audio nova300 + FREE BT-1 Bluetooth Receiver nova300 Sale Price $1999 w/free BT-1 (save $399) A New Generation of Power The nova300 isa completely new generation of Peachtree integrated amplifiers that reimagines the original concept and takes it to an even higher level. I represents the culmination of everything Peachtree has learned as a leader in computer audio, plus a few new things they hadn't gotten to - until now. Highlights ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD (double-DSD) compatibility New generation ICEPower amplification - 300 watts per channel @ 8Ω 450 watts per channel @ 4Ω Extensive internal grounding Designed by a world-class engineering team Asynchronous USB, Coax and (2) Optical inputs Asynchronous iOS input for direct digital input from Apple Lightning devices - with exclusive Peachtree DyNEC (Dynamic-Noise Elimination Circuit) technology (pending certification) Phono (MM) input Home Theater Bypass Loop feature to add an external tube buffer, EQ or other processor into the signal path Pre-Out for use as preamp/DAC or with subwoofer HIGH OUTPUT discrete headphone amplifier Optional Wi-Fi module to be announced Available in Gloss Ebony Mocha and Piano Black Made in North America Peachtree Audio nova150 + FREE BT-1 Bluetooth Receiver nova150 Sale Price $1499 w/free BT-1 (save $199) The Integrated Amplifier… Reimagined The nova150 isa completely new generation of Peachtree integrated amplifiers that reimagines the original concept and takes it to an even higher level. I represents the culmination of everything Peachtree has learned as a leader in computer audio, plus a few new things they hadn't gotten to - until now. Highlights ESS Reference 9018K2M Sabre DAC 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD (double-DSD) compatibility New generation ICEPower amplification - 150 watts per channel Extensive internal grounding Designed by a world-class engineering team Asynchronous USB, Coax and (2) Optical inputs Asynchronous iOS input for direct digital input from Apple Lightning devices Phono (MM) input Home Theater Bypass Loop feature to add an external tube buffer, EQ or other processor into the signal path Discrete, custom-designed headphone amplifier Optional Wi-Fi module to be announced Available in Gloss Ebony Mocha and Piano Black FREE Peachtree Audio BT1 Bluetooth with purchase of nova integrated amplifiers The Peachtree BT1 Bluetooth Receiver is the easiest way to stream music from your phone or tablet to your stereo or home theater system. Get them free with orders on nova integrated amplifiers during the sale. Peachtree Audio shift USB DAC and HEADPHONE AMP shift Sale Price $199 (save $200 off original price on saddle tan leather special edition) Highlights ▪ Android or iPhone ▪ 32bit/384kHz USB B input ▪ PCM & DSD decoding ▪ USB-A input for iOS or Android ▪ DyNEC Noise Elimination System ▪ USB-B input for your computer ▪ Variable/Fixed output ▪ Hi/Lo gain switch for almost any level headphones or IEM's. ▪ 4100 mAh battery pack ▪ 8 hours playback ▪ Can charge while listening High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

For those of you who LIKE the look of the otherwise all-black Schiit Asgard 2 headphone amplifier WITH the ridiculous silver volume knob, you can safely ignore this thread :). For those of you who, like me, think the silver knob looks terrible, read on. I contacted Schiit support (with tongue-in-cheek) asking if they could send me a black knob to replace the one "erroneously" shipped with my amp. They replied that "they had no black knobs" (which is the response I expected). I then set out on a quest to fix the problem myself. I found a source in Asia that was able to supply me a solid, cast aluminum black knob for about $10 all-in. This knob is the exact same diameter, but a little thicker than the knob supplied by Schiit. It is also slightly glossier than the finish of the amp. I still like it better than the silver knob, though. I have attached a photo of the result. All comments welcome. If you are interested in pursuing this yourself, let me know via PM. Happy listening!

Holo Cyan - DAC+Headamp impressions With the new Holo combined DAC/headamp now formally announced and pre-orders being taken, first deliveries are expected in a few weeks. So time to start a separate impressions thread just for this product. This is for impressions not for discussing the benefits of DSD ! This is essentially a new version of the Holo Spring designed for headphone users - something I have been waiting for. I don't own a Holo or have any association with them but have been aware of them through very positive user reviews. The Spring contains 2 ladder DACS - one for PCM input and one for DSD. With theCyan, the first model being released contains 1 ladder DAC and 1 headphone amp instead. Essentials This first model contains only the PCM R2R ladder DAC - this will play your normal redbook and much higher resolution files and it will convert DSD files (up to DSD 256) to PCM files for playback - as many (most?) DACS claiming to be DSD capable do. The Spring and a minority of other DACs do native DSD (better for the purists and I do have one of those other non-holo ones) and there is a later version of the Cyan coming out for this. • Inputs are : -USB (isolated from ground) -Coaxial (RCA) -Coaxial (BNC) -AES -Optical I2S the HDMI interface (DSD256) USA and IS2 support DSD DOP mode DSD256 andall other digital inputs support DSD DOP mode to DSD64) • Outputs are: Fully balanced XLR and RCA output, and balanced headphone output using 4 pin xlr Full size 1/4 inch single ended headphone output Other points of note: • The clock is a still a femto one but not quite the same as in the Spring, whilst the USB input has apparently been upgraded compared to the USB input on the Spring. • Offers oversampling and non oversampling modes • The case is smaller than the Spring being 281 * 260 * 55mm or 11* 10 * 2 inches • The new fully balanced headphone circuit • Ability to select either low impedance or high impedance for the headphones and to change this easlily • The remote control functions include volume as well as switching between low & high gain to satisfy users of IEM's through to tougher to drive full size audiophile headphones. • Jeff the lead designer has commented that unlike other integrated units where the headamp has been poorly regarded he wanted to build a decent headamp inside. • Price - ~20% cheaper than the Spring but to be confirmed on a country by country basis . Kitsune will no doubt update for the USA and others for Europe and elsewhere

Chord seems to have redesigned the Hugo TT with: A new chassis A more powerful Xilinx Artix 7 FPGA Ability to play 768kHz PCM and DSD 512 playback A WTA filter with 98,304-taps (double that Hugo 2 has) Upgrade from a 4-element design to a 10-element design Six super capacitors capable of peak output of 5A, 9.3V RMS A new discreet output stage A four-stage filter controls, like in Hugo2 AVAILABLE: AUTUMN 2018 Dynamic range: 127dB ‘A’ weighted Noise: 4 uV ‘A’ weighted (high gain), 1.7 uV ‘A’ weighted (low gain) with no measurable noise floor modulation Distortion: 0.00008% @ 2.5 V 300Ω; 0.00016% @ 6 W 8Ω Output power (unbalanced): (@1% THD) 288 mW RMS 300Ω; 7.3 W RMS 8Ω Output power (balanced): (@1% THD) 1.15 W RMS 300Ω; 18W RMS 8Ω Output impedance: 0.042Ω Stereo separation: 9 V RMS 300Ω -138dB Dimensions: 130mm (L) x 100mm (W) x 21mm (H) Boxed Dimensions: 220mm (L) x 122mm (W) x 85mm (H) *My observation: The output power, if the spec is correct, is much higher than for DAVE which is good for us with hard to drive headphones and for those that drive their speakers direct* http://chordelectronics.co.uk/product/hugott2/

[video=youtube;CYQrzU-srSE] Ayre Codex headphone amp/DAC/digital preamp video review courtesy of the good folks at Head-Fi TV. For additional information on the Codex or any other products from Ayre Acoustics, please visit us here or here High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

December Newsletter(Click above for link to full newsletter Double Club Ciamara Rewards Points Holiday Special + EMM Labs DA2 Flagship DAC Trade-in OFFER! For the remainder of the year, earn Double Rewards Points (10%)back on every purchase through our Club Ciamara Rewards Points Holiday Promotional. Be sure to register for our Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program so you can start earning store credit on every purchase. We're also pleased to announce that we're now offering up to $7500 in trade-in credit towards the purchase of EMM Labs Flagship DA2 DAC. This is easily one of the best DACs available and an awesome way to take your digital playback to new heights. Finally, don't forget to check out our specials section for great deals on equipment, as well as, special component/cable bundles from some of our more popular products. As always, we offer FREE SHIPPINGon all purchases over $99 and the ability to try just about anything we sell in the comfort of your own home for up to 30-days. HOT PRODUCTS ENIGMAcoustics Dharma D1000 Hybrid Electrostatic Headphones($1190) ENIGMAcoustics has really gone all out with their Dharma D1000 Headphones. From the lightweight, sleek aesthetic to the innovative design and proprietary SBESL technology, it is one of our favorite headphones and one of the best we’ve heard. Lumin D1 Network Music Player ($2,000) - SAVE $150 on Sbooster Audiphile Power Supply Get close to the performance of the Lumin T1 for a fraction of the price when you add the Sbooster BOTW Audiophile Power Supply Since its release no other line of network music players have received as many awards as the Lumin line of music players. Lumin has taken what they have learned and applied it to what is now their most affordable player yet, the D1. Lumin’s D1 Network Music Player is based on their original and highly regarded, A1. It contains the same “no expense spared” development and technology of the A1, which provides unmatched and award-winning musicality, with minor differences that allow it be more affordable - all while taking extraordinary efforts to not compromise the sound quality. Reducing the size of the chassis and removing the HDMI output help reduce costs without losing music quality, and using an auto-ranging power supply offered the biggest savings for the least compromise. The Lumin family of players will playback everything from high-res to more popular formats: DSD LOSSLESS: DSF (DSD), DIFF (DSD), DoP (DSD); PCM LOSSLESS: FLAC, Apple Lossless (ALAC), WAV, AIFF; COMPRESSED (LOSSY) AUDIO: MP3, AAC (in M4A container). Sbooster Ultra Power Filter for Uptone Audio Regen ($100) The SBooster Ultra for the UpTone Audio Regen USB Hub is their first switch-mode power supply add on based on active filter technology. Compared to the passive SBooster Single Unit you will get with the Ultra an even greater crispness, tightness, distinctness and focus. Last but not least your Regen will run a lot cooler which has a positive impact on the overall sound quality. With the Sbooster Ultra Filter, you get high performance, as well as an economical upgrade for your Regen. Ayre Acoustics Codex Headphone Amp/DAC/preamp ($1795) 30% OFF CARDAS BALANCED HEADPHONE CABLE of your choice with purchase The Codex, manufactured in Boulder, CO is equally at home as a stand-alone DAC, DAC/Preamp combination, or Headphone Amplifier/DAC. Encased in a sleek, elegant chassis and equipped with the latest Ayre technology, Cardas Balanced Headphone Cable for the Codex One of the features that really separates the Codex from the competition is its ability to be used in balanced headphone mode. This feature has the ability to elevate the performance of your headphones beyond what you thought was possible. We feel that this is such an important aspect of the Codex that we're offering you the chance to purchase any one of the specially constructed balanced headphone cables from Cardas for 30% off! These cables have been specifically designed for the Ayre Codex (and Pono) and are available for a wide variety of the most popular headphones. It is important to note that not all supported headphone models are listed on our or Cardas' site, so please contact us if you have any questions regarding your headphones' compatibility with one of the Cardas models. Auralic Aries Mini - 20% OFF CABLES WITH PURCHASE ($549) One of this years most anticipated products has finally begun shipping.For those that don't already know, The ARIES MINI is a wireless streaming node designed for connecting to your existing home audio system. It not only has shared all software and hardware functions coming from original ARIES, but also equipped with additional high quality analog output and optional hard drive slot for anyone whom don’t want to invest for a dedicate DSD DAC and NAS drive. We don't know any other device from any manufacturer that can do what the Aries Mini can at this price. EMM LABS DA2 TRADE-IN OFFER EMM LABS DA2 - Next Generation Flagship DAC is HERE! (call for pricing details) For a limited time, trade-in your existing DAC and receive up to$7500 in credit towards a DA2. Not all DACs are eligible, so be sure and contact us to see if you have a qualifying product. This is a very limited time offer, so don't miss out on this great opportunity to own one of the world's finest DACs. Ed Meitner of EMM Labs proudly previews the DA2, his successor to the much beloved DAC2XThe DA2 is EMM Labs next generation flagship DAC. Re-designed from the ground up, Ed Meitner has once again created a DAC that significantly moves the bar in terms of transparency, accuracy and overall sound quality. NEW PERSONAL AUDIO PRODUCTS Cardas A8 Ear Speaker($300) After months and months of waiting, Cardas has finally launched their follow-up to their award winning EM5813 Ear Speakers. The Cardas A8 Ear Speaker features the world's first Ultra Linear, Contour Field, Dual Magnet Driver - an entirely new dynamic driver with no permeable core, delivering deep bass, strong midrange, and soaring highs. A8 users who want to use other playback devices, such as the balanced output on an Astell & Kern, Pono, or Ayre's Codex headphone amp, can purchase a separate cable specifically for that purpose. STAX SR-L700 Ear Speakers ($1400) STAX SR-L500 Ear Speakers ($700) STAX SRM-353X Headphone Amplifier ($925) STAX SRS-5100 Headphone System - SR-L500 + SRM-353X ($1650) The first SR-Lambda series was introduced 36 years ago and it has further developed into a new-generation SR-Lambda with its newly designed enclosure - the new SR-L700 and SR-L500 advanced-Lambda series Earspeakers. The SR-L700 and SR-L500 feature the same hand selected thin-film diaphragm that is used in their flagship SR-009. The SR-L700 also utilizes fixed electrodes machined through three-layer stainless etching using heat diffusion has been used for its sound element. These techniques result in an incredibly well-balanced headphone that produces rich deep bass, delicate high frequency and soothing mid-range.The SRM-353X is the exclusive driver unit (amplifier) produced to drive STAX electrostatic Earspeaker headphones. Thanks for taking the time to take a look at this month's newsletter, if you have any questions feel free to contact us here, in our LiveChat or at 844-242-6272 Happy Holidays! High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)

I am listening to music on my work laptop using itunes with the music files in apple lossless format. I've plugged in a Fiio e10 Olympus 2 headphone amp and DAC with a pair of Beyerdynamic T70Ps. I am very happy with the sound however I notice that sometimes when I adjust the volume on the Fiio I hear static. I am wondering if someone can explain why this might be happening? Thanks.

Luxman’s SQ-N100 vacuum integrated amplifier was a favorite among Luxman fans and audiophiles during its production run. If you were disappointed in the past for not being able to find one, you may be in luck. We are excited to announce that we will have a handful of the SQ-N100s available again, but only while supplies last. We encourage you to jump on this opportunity while you can. This extremely limited number of new units will ship by year end for $2,990 retail each. Once they are gone, they are gone forever. We are asking for a deposit so that we can reserve one for you, so please call us at 844.CIAMARA (844-242-6272), contact us at http://ciamara.com/contacts/About or in our LiveChat The Luxman SQ-N100 is part of Luxman’s NeoClassico series and quickly became a success after its release due to its affordability, portability, great sound and stunning look. 844.242.CIAMARA (844.242.6272) High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

The iDAC2 – spilling the secret sauce (part 1) The iDAC2’s musicality has wooed – most recently the iDAC2 + iPurifier2 + Pro iCAN at the Fujiya AVIC Headphone Festival in Tokyo where the market is probably the most demanding on the planet. Source: iFi Retro Stereo 50 + iPurifier2 at Fujiya Avic 2015 | DAR__KO The Pro iCAN was one of the show ‘best sound winners’ so the small but mighty iDAC2 + iPurifier 2 combo deserve some credit for producing the digital-to-analogue conversion to feed the Pro iCAN. At the show, the quite technically proficient Japanese press asked us on more than one occasion why the recently-launched iDAC2 sounded so nice. And this is a press pack that has turntables in heavy rotation so they know their onions. This gave us the idea to put finger to keyboard. Source: 【候補多すぎ】ヘッドフォンç¥*アワード2015秋は週末までに公開致します！ | 目福耳福 Fujiya Avic BLOG Bake-Off: the iFi recipe behind a really good DAC The following are our thoughts only. The application of the parts budget as common industry practice is similar to what we did in the iFi iDSD nano which is more indicative of <US$1,000 DACs. Often a very large part of the budget is needed for the digital platform (after all, we need a DAC Chip that headlines and a good USB processor). Power supplies and analogue stages receive the remaining budget. Hence, the three key cost areas in the electronics of a digital-to-analogue converter: Digital section cost - is much the same across the board, chipsets/clocks vary but slightly and software is usually ‘off the shelf’ like the XMOS firmware and off the shelf DAC Chips of usually comparable cost. In a USB DAC the USB Processor is usually the biggest ticket item before the DAC. Clocks and their power supplies often cost as much as a DAC Chip. Analogue section cost – from a simple double Op-Amp for 20 cent to things done much more extensively cost varies. The iDAC2 has BB Soundplus integrated amplifier and a discrete JFet and BJT Class A output stage. Further it employs C0G Capacitors and MELF Resistors for all signal positions, all this adds cost. Power supply section cost – Often USB DACs have minimal power supply arrangements with generic 3-pin regulators. If done more extensively, then the cost is higher eg iDAC2 uses ELNA Silmic Capacitors and Active Noise Cancellation® to eliminate the USB power noise. iDAC2 is no piece of cake Things are different in the iDAC 2: we started with a larger budget, we could have spent it in a number of ways, like more DAC Chips or different ‘fashionable’ DAC Chips or fancy clocks. Instead we chose to put the extra budget where it impacts most, namely analogue stages and power supplies. The iDAC2 has a similar cost digital section as with other DACs out there (and to our iDSD nano) but its analogue and power sections are more extensive hence its overall cost is greater so its pie chart area is larger. The proof is in the listening. Next time: Part 2. The Digital section

Ayre Codex Headphone Amplifier/DAC/Digital Preamp AVAILABLE WITH HEADPHONE CABLE BUNDLE 30% OFF CARDAS BALANCED HEADPHONE CABLE of Your Choice With Purchase “I don't know if it's due to the "zero negative feedback" design or the killer digital filters Charlie Hanson dreams up, but with file resolutions of PCM up to 32/384 and DSD128 the Codex is just plain musical. Can't wait to get one up here for a long hard listen.” – Tyll Hertsens, innerfidelity.com Built in Boulder, Colorado, the Codex is Ayre’s most affordable and versatile product. It performs equally well as a stand-alone headphone amp, DAC and digital preamp. As a headphone amp it offers the latest state-of-the-art technology for which Ayre Acoustics is so well known. This includes featuring dual 3.5mm mini jacks that can be configured for balanced mode headphone listening, a fully-balanced signal path throughout the analog circuit that provided a whisper quiet background, Ayre’s exclusive diamond output circuit and a audiophile grade linear AyreLock power supply. When combined with their zero negative feedback design and minimum phase digital filter, the Codex provides pure musicality that is almost hard to believe and unheard of at its price. The Codex can also be used as a standalone DAC with fixed output and/or as a standalone digital preamp if you need a volume control. Whether being used as a headphone amp or as a part of a high performance home stereo, the Codex is an astounding achievement and is already one of our choices for product of the year. If you’re looking for a headphone amp or a new DAC, the Codex will definitely make a great addition to virtually any system. Ayre has been designing products like this for over 20 years. Listen and experience what Ayre and your music are all about. Output Level Headphone or Preamp Modes 7.2 volts balanced, 3.1 volts single-ended Output Level DAC Mode 4 volts balanced, 2 volts single-ended Input USB - PCM 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz, 352.8 kHz, 384 kHz (up to 24 bits), DSD64, DSD128 Optical input (Toslink) Dimensions 2.25"W x 9"D x 5.25"H (5.5 cm x 23 cm x 13.7 cm) This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program 1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272) High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

I want to improve the sonic experience I get listening to music on my relatively new ASUS N56VZ laptop. The music files are in FLAC format and I'm playing them with Media Center 19. I am considering the new-ish Sony PHA-2 DAC/Amp and the Beyerdynamic T70P headphones. However I am a bit confused by comments read here and on other sites about the need for components to be compatible ... all this talk of Ohms and Impedance in particular. I've looked without success for simple definitions and examples of these terms. My question: will the T70Ps and the PHA-2 work well together?

Ave to the headphones specialists ... While I was looking into different headphone amps this weekend I recognized that "Balanced Outputs" looks like the new standard feature, However it seem not clear, if 2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.4mm , 3-Pin XLR or 4-Pin XLR should be the standard. Looks like a great chance for cable manufactures, though. Which is the best practise to have your cans suiting to the standard of your new HP amp? New cables with fitting connectors ? Adapter cables ? Not talking about STAX or RAAL ... Curious, Tom

I listen to my M3 headphone amp through 32 ohm Grado GS1000 headphones. The sound was unimpressive for the first 40 hours but since then it has been great and getting better. I never realized there was so much nuance and detail in music. There is even silence and space between the details. Sound stage ambiance and musical decay is amazing. Quality of source material is very apparent but not punishing. The realism, impact and ease of the flow of music continues to blow me away. I have never heard sound this good at at any price throughout my 35 years of interest in HiFi. Here are specifics of my DIY build which I believe to have contributed to the sound quality. 1. I used a 24vdc regulated PowerOne Linear power supply (upgraded with HEXFREDs) followed by a Bybee Music Rail filter. 2. Takman metal film resistors used throughout except for Dale RN60s for the 1 ohm MOSFET output resistors. 3. Elna Silmic and Nichicon Muse electrolytics used throughout along with the Wima 1uf film caps. I also bypassed the Wima caps with Vishay 1837 0.01uf PP caps. 4. I bypassed the bass boost circuit and use an upgraded Truth preamp for volume control. A LightSpeed LDR attenuator using a kit from Uriah Dailey should work just as well. 5. The MOSFETs are mounted on 2.5 inch heat sinks with ventilation holes beneath, over, and even through the circuit board and are biased at 135ma. 6. AD8610 Opamps were used. 7. I Added a Silk DIY AC filter by Lukas Fikus (lampizator) in the same chassis, although it could be in a separate box.

I've not posted much in these forums since joining in 2010, which I feel is my mistake. Here, audiophiles who are very serious about music congregate more than any other forum I've seen. Time to make friends. (For more details and further sound impressions, check out my original review of the Porta Tube+.) If you don't know GoVibe, it is Jaben's top-end brand, consisting of headphone amps, DAC's, and sometimes, cables. Today's review encapsulates the GoVibe Porta Tube+, a 24/96kHz USB DAC/headphone amp. 24/192kHz is achieved via upsampling. The DAC, a CIRRUS CS4398-CZZ. USB plug-play is its only stumbling block. The main feature of the Porta Tube+ is the output valve, but I would like to draw attention to the fact that the GoVibe Porta Tube/+ is more impressive in that no matter which headphones are connected, whether low Ω headphones that drive down to 4Ω during heavy bass passages, or high Ω headphones like the DT880, that act very much like no load, but require more voltage, never stray farther than 1% performance from each other. Impressive performance to say the very least. Of course, with a valve amp, there is overall more distortion than there is via a solid state amp, more phase errors, and oftentimes, a higher noise floor. The Porta Tube strikes each one of those except the last. Noise floor is extremely low even when very sensitive earphones such as the 1400$ FitEar ToGo 334 is plugged in, and equally as impressive via the Sleek Audio CT7, a dual-driver custom monitor. There is no noise via any on-ear or over-ear headphone at any volume level in low gain. High gain is the realm of headphones, not earphones. Gain modes Now I suppose I should mention: gain is changed via internal jumper switches. While archaic, it has less impact on the sound because of fewer circuit connections in the amp. But, to change from low to high and visa versa, you must unscrew each of 8 screws, push the board out, then use long-nose pliers, or be handy with a small (-) screwdriver. TMA's review goes further into that. Low gain has good balance between channels for sensitive IEM earphones, while high gain will render too much volume for them to achieve balance. High gain is great for voltage hungry headphones, but I found even low gain more than enough for my 600Ω DT880, and the 64Ω K701. No problems at all. Sound in a nutshell While this amp is driven by a valve, and it posts higher distortion numbers than a solid state amp, it is bright, energetic, and easy to love. There is none of that bloom that pervades the signal of lesser valve amps, and no congestion at all. Again, no matter which earphones/headphones you have plugged in, the Porta Tube acts very like there is nothing plugged in at all. Nothing obstructs the clarity of its signal, its rise time, and decay. That said, there is a bit of softness in the signal no matter the output device. It's a lovely cloud in both the high/low frequencies that demonstrates itself in a slight blending of L/R channels. It is perfectly 'tubey', yet perfectly coherent in every phase. The volume pot is silky smooth and balanced even at low frequencies, and unless you trip the high gain and attempt to blow your headphones at 90% volume, phase errors are nil. In other words, there is no phasing the Porta Tube/+. As a DAC, it is competent, but I've found that USB battery powered DAC's perform less well as DACs than they do as line-input devices. The iPod touch drives signal better from its line out better than the USB-DAC does. If you up the quality of the input, say, to a AlgoRythm Solo, a CD player, or good pre-amp, it only gets better. But, the final output will remain within CD-quality benchmarks. Whatever you think about that is whatever you think. I'm incredibly impressed. Admittedly, my experience with valve has stayed 100% in the living room with power amps, headphone amps, and one or two DACs (how does that work?), but I'm confident in saying that from a performance and sound perspective, the Porta Tube+ is one of the greats in this field, certainly at its price. For more details and further sound impressions, check out my original review of the Porta Tube+.

I'm new too this audiophile stuff , i recently bought audio technica ATH-M50X's Musical fidelity V90-HPA Audio engine D1 Belkin Gold series USB A too B I'm selling the D1 because i prefer the MF do USB leads really matter ? i bought a Belkin gold series, i refuse to spend £££ on a lead I've got the thing setup fine, iTunes is my music player (this is not a studio setup or anything i just listen to music whilst browsing eBay lol) i currently have the following enhancements on in speaker properties Virtual surround Bass Boost question about the bass boost i have it set at Freq 600 Hz Boost level 3dB What should i run the bass at whats the difference in Hz, i mean it sounds amazing as it is does anyone have any pointers on bass boost levels , should i run asio4all drivers or anything just general tips would be helpful

Primarily, this forum is dedicated to dedicated PC audio hardware, but I've been finding new lease on portable amps/DAC's recently. This year, I've been pretty interested in what ALO Audio have put out for the headphone world and I hope someday, they implement their tight designs in small power amps. The spec is pretty 'about': Input: USB, 3,5mm stereo mini, analogue RCA Output: 6,3mm stereo headphone plug, 3,5mm stereo mini plug Valves: 61J compatible valves Battery run time: ~8-10 hours Compatible impedance range: 8-600Ω (but I found the best match is 50-600Ω) I live in Japan, so a power-hungry power amp and large speakers to go with my music server are right out. In fact, my current home system is none other than the compact CEntrance DACmini PX, which does a more than respectable job of pushing speakers, and is perfect with headphones. Surprisingly, the Pan Am, a mains or battery or wall wart powered amp that comes rings in at less than 800$ with all the necessary bits: battery module (Passport) and Pan Am amp, actually pushes my DT880 600Ω to much much higher levels of performance (output power) than the DACmini does. I've detailed my findings here and am interested in knowing how others are getting on with this amp. Please speak up as I am keen on finding brothers and sisters here.

Im considering getting a new sound card to replace my current EMU1820m card, as I am going to buy a new PC soon. The EMU card is great in every way, but connects using PCI. The new PC will be a laptop, so thats the problem really. PCI to USB adapters are expensive, so I am looking at new sound cards and external DACs instead. As I am doing alot of music production, I am leaning towards a sound card with a good DAC and good DSP - a nice headphone AMP is also a req. The EMU1820m is somewhat old, so I am guessing that todays equipment can match the EMU1820M at a lower cost (set me back about 500$ when I bought it back around 2005). Main req: - connects via USB (3.0 preferred) - low latency DSP (on par with EMU1820m) - great sound / DAC - preferably runs ASIO (so used to controlling various sound sources in the EMU mixer - cant go back now) - integrated headphone AMP (although I might get a dedicated one if no perfect to my req. exists) - some input options - not just output If you guys have any suggestions on alternative solution ect. im all ears

My beloved Chord Hugo 2 and goodies. • MSRP $2495 • Asking $1595 $1495 • Shipping and PayPal included in asking price • Low hours = good battery health • Includes Coax -> Mini coax cable to connect to a DDC • Includes am Audioquest USB B -> Mini adapter to use with a regular USB cables • Includes original box and accessories • Combine with HQPlayer "Sinc-M" over USB and you have an outstanding sounding DAC, especially at this price.