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Well, when I was running around NYC with my Discman strapped to my hand, I used whatever cheap a$$ wired headphones were included in the box. In the modern world, we have things like TruthEar IEMs, which are pretty close in price considering inflation, and make that old stuff sound like garbage.

I think what's interesting in the D900 specs is that just isn't any improvement compared to other models they already produce. There's just nothing more to get out of a consumer DAC in terms of sound quality. Added features like PEQ are now the main difference between models.

You've tried 3 amps and they all sound the same to you. You have just proven that there is no need for a "better" or more expensive amp. Face it, amps have only a tiny bit of distortion compared to speakers. You and your ears are already educated - pick the one you like.

Yes, I would say it's overkill, but you'll never need to buy another amp. Someday you may change your speakers to something that actually needs some of that power.

I don't know...125 watts at 4 ohms "may lack dynamic depth" in a bedroom system. Is this just for your listening or are you playing tunes for your neighbors next door too? The Topping already puts out more power than Elac's specified maximum input. I would take their word for it since they...

I would second the Hypex NCx500 or the latest Purifi. You've got a wide list of assemblers and models from utilitarian to drool worthy, based on how much you want to spend.

The latest for me is John Wilson/Sinfonia of London playing Rachmaninoff. I particularly like the Symphonic Dances on this, and I'm just playing back the Atmos version on Tidal. I expect that I'll get the Chandos SACD for my own collection.

My advice would be to avoid Grok, buy any modern or used CD/DVD/Bluray/4K player you like, and get the Wiim Ultra. I haven't bothered with vinyl playback since my last turntable was stolen about 30 years ago, so no opinion there.

I personally don't set anything on fire and then attempt to inhale it into my lungs. However, I live in Minneapolis so I get an involuntary assist from wildfire smoke and all the smokers around me. It's only a concern when a car passes by that reeks of weed even when my windows are up, but I'm...

I have both the original E30/L30 and the E50/L50. I bought the second set because I wanted them for another system, not that I had any issues with the first. I can tell absolutely no difference between the two DACs. I think the L50 is a bit better than its predecessor, just because it can...

Believe me, when you're talking about Paul Barton, I can guarantee that he has tested it. He was one of the first people to test all of his products in Canada's National Research Council anechoic chamber. If you don't believe his ears, that's fine, but I'm sure he arrives at his opinion after...

It works perfectly on my Pixel 8 Pro via Tidal or YT Music. Maybe you've got some software settings you need to update. BTW, that SMSL is really pushing on the boundary of a "portable" device.

Well of course, but I was addressing the customer's opinion, not the dealers.

My favorite item from these shows are the setups with 20 boxes of supporting electronics. Here you have ESD, at Axpona it was Magico (and others I don't remember). Even if they get great sound, I don't know who would want to have that much gear in a huge room. My wealthy friends are going more...

We can already do a comparison of the A90 and A90 discrete, so that should give a big clue that the new model will be 99% more of the same. I mean you can only push the specs so far into the non-detectable zone. My pet bat will appreciate the sonic upgrades.

You don't need balanced inputs to "get the most from the DAC" - the single ended inputs are just as capable. Balanced inputs are needed if you have issues with grounding. If you don't hear an obvious buzzing from your speakers, you can skip balanced, unless it gives you piece of mind. You...

I'm not recommending that you return the Marantz, it's perfectly fine for what it is. And it has plenty of power for lots of different speakers. You've found some you like, but it's best that you listen to a lot of speakers to get your own list of what you prefer before you make a decision.

Also, that Marantz is fairly low in wattage compared to many AVRs, so I would say one of your main criteria is that you want an efficient speaker. There is no such thing as "the best speaker" for everyone. Your equipment, your room, and your ears matter in making the right decision for you...

Well I've always enjoyed the sound of Paradigm's older models when I've auditioned them. I don't know that I would worry too much about other people think if they sound right to your ears, which is the single most important aspect for deciding on speakers. You certainly don't need to drive...

I received mine yesterday direct from Crinacle's website for $30. I appreciate his reviews and products so wanted to buy it directly from him. I barely beat the de minimis exception change in the US, so there was no unexpected customs charge. It was 10 days from order to delivery. At first...