his my personal, subjective list. If your favorite product is not on it sorry. Don't light up the comments for that reason. This is based on performance at the price. I can only chose things I have reviewed. If I haven't reviewed it's not on the list. If you wish to join the channel and become a member please click here: www.youtube.com/@OldGuyHifi/membership
Ed great video. It has been a pleasure and privilege to have interacted with you this year. I feel lucky to have access to your content. Happy new year!
Thank you so much for deciding to become a HiFi RUclips reviewer. You are my favorite reviewer, and I really love your music recommendations. In particular, I loved your mention of Al DiMeola's Elegant Gypsy, which is an amazing display of jazz-rock fusion and virtuoso acoustic guitar playing.
Ed, this is a great list. That's why I always love your videos. I wish I liked headphones. I have an 8 dollar pair around here somewhere but I use it about once a year. LOL
Concur 100%. Great catch by Ed on the PO100Pro, for me anyway! Was skeptical even after watching randy's channel. Took a chance to pair it with my Fiio R2R DAC and Fostex mk4 over-ears. Instruments, vocals...tonality way better..instruments much much more detailed. Am running the smsl PO100 Pro in between my PC and the Fiio. Lastly, this best of 2024 video maybe one of the best of 2024 videos, amongst my audio channels best of 2024 lists 😂....Merry christmas and happy new year to all audio folks!🥳
I’ve tried it between my Ares 12th and WiiM Ultra and don’t get a signal to the Ares. Using the white USB cable that came with it to connect to the USB output on the WiiM. Then coax out to the Ares. I get nothing. The PO100 doesn’t seem to get any power this way. When I use a small USB hub and plug that into the WiiM and then plug the PO100 into that, it lights up but still nothing goes over to the Ares. Would really appreciate any help here.
@@jenslangen6164 You mentioned the white USB cable. The white USB cable that came with mine is USB-C to USB-C. Is that what yours is? If so, the Wiim Ultra does not have USB-C output, it has a USB type A output. The PO100 should have come with a black USB-A to USB-C cable, that is what would go from the Wiim Ultra's USB output to the PO100. And then you want to use the PO100's I2S output for maximum performance into the I2S input on your Ares 12th. That's key. Use any HDMI cable you have, preferably shorter length. Let me know.
Wow! Cambridge audio must be a happy company tonight, to get so many accolades at once is one thing, but to get it from a guy who is quite simply by far and away the best reviewer online today is quite another. Fantastic round up of your years work sir.
Great list of products. I was so close to scoring an Advanced Paris A10 amplifier. The Black Ice amplifier sounds like it could be an "end game" amplifier, too, if there is such a thing. Thanks Ed
Great list Ed! I’ve got a few of the cheaper products (ft1, zd3, j2s) and I definitely agree with you, some great gear for great prices, now I gotta fall real deep into the op amp rabbit hole, thanks Ed!
I bought the zd3 . I am changing the op amps and I ordered a linear power supply off Alli express, next week I am going to order a low noise super capacitor bank.
Glad to see the Rogue. For the money, I love the Rogue Integrated Amp Sphinx 3 for about $2k hybrid tube driving my Magnepan .7. The sound is out of this world.
Great list Ed. So happy that the channel is doing so well. I totally understand that the amount of comments you're getting is too much to respond to all of them so I won't mind if I don't hear from you anymore. It's worth it to see you doing so well on here. Have a great Christmas Ed.
I was going back & forth on whether to buy Black Ice Audio gear or Advance Paris gear for about 3 months. I ultimately went with Black Ice Audio because I got a heck of a deal on an open box F360. I put a $200+ tube in my F360, and added a $120 power cable...I'm still a little under the closeout price for the unit, which is $1,999 usd. I also bought the Black Ice Fusion9 MkIII phono preamp just to keep things uniform, aesthetically. I'm happy with my Black Ice gear, but this is hobby for me at this point, so I'm quite sure I'll get to hear one of the nice Advance Paris preamplifiers in my system at some point. Or, at least I hope so.
@@alexlopez-u3i I'm definitely not disappointed with the performance of my Black Ice Audio kit. ...but like I said. This is a hobby for me at this point, even though I didn't intend for that to be the case when I started. I'll eventually get ahold of that fancy dual mono solid state stereo preamp from Advance Paris. I have to. It bugs me that I didn't at least give that unit a listen prior to making a final decision. It will ALWAYS bug me.
I am actually going to film that review in the next day or so. I used them on my desktop with a Schiit G-Horn, the 3e Audio class D amp and in the media room I use them with the Black Ice F22 and my Cambridge EVO150. I think they will pair very well with decent quality amps and the better the amp the better the sound. That said that little 3e Audio amp sounded great with them. Look for the full review soon. Thx.
Nice round up. Im glad to see that you're a source first guy. I built my system source first, then heard a lot of reviewers say speakers first. Was kind of wondering if I did it backward. Your videos are always informative and fun, keep up the great work.
Love your channel! Great info here, and what a great collection of 35mm and medium format cameras on the shelf! For the record, I have a WiiM Ultra and SU-1… just picked up the PO100 Pro. Haven’t included it in the system yet, as I need the bass management from the Ultra, so hopefully there’s a firmware update for sub out and bass management with USB out. Reclocking was important in my studio recording days through ProTools and other DAWs. I’m sure it’ll make a sonic difference in most systems.
@@OldGuyHifi I have been A/B’ing the Ultra > PO100 Pro > SU-1 vs same chain less the PO100 Pro. There’s definitely an increase in instrument separation. I can hear more attack in the snare, and it seems like breaths from the singer and the texture of a pick hitting guitar strings is a little more life like. I have a very modest set of speakers in the Pioneer BS22s, but this definitely helps with detail to my ears. I’d love to get a set of 3 way bookies. Now if WiiM would just release the firmware update for USB and Sub Out on the ultra!
Excellent selection for us to choose from, with your informative and insightful perspectives to guide us. Thank you so much for this content and all you have done for us with your channel. I look forward to the next year and more of your fantastic reviews. Take care, Sir, and I am a little disappointed that I couldn't test the Sundaras to hear the hype for myself. Take care and all the very best to you and the whole family, Sir.
Bought the CA AXR100 on sale couple weeks ago for $490 and couldn't be happier, paired with my Wiim Ultra (also bought on sale at the same time). Amazing value!
I simplified my main system to get a 300B based system for the den. I got the Triangle Magellan Duetto 40th speakers which I love with an RA280 amp and an Auralic Vegas S1. Steve Huff was reviewing this and saying hoiw it was 85% of his good system. It sounded like what I wanted for this room. 2 entry level products from companies that sell solid midfi. I almost kept the Vincent 237, but the Hifi Rose sounded better with the Triangles. Glad to see the speakers mentioned. The other option I had was Dynaudio Heritage Special which were a better match for Vincent. For me, while I may add other DACs later, I think this is my end game and my love of chasing the sound will be with the den system. As long as I have my tubes amp for immerisive vocalists. I use the Triangles with an HSU sub to get teh bass to fit my room.
Thanks for recommending so many great products. I had to stop watching as the price climbed a little out of my justifiable range for the time I can spend listening. 😂
Great episode as always, thank you Ed. I have preordered a Dayzee. As you were mentioning the very affordable linear power supply for the Dayzee, can you provide the brand and model? Thanks again and wish you and all a great holiday season!
www.fiio.com/pl50 The issue is that right now it is only available from Ali Express and currently for 220 volt. It does not have a dual voltage AC in. I have been working with FiiO to get them to bring some 120 volt units to somewhere like Amazon. I will keep you posted.
I went for an LPS from MCRU for my Gershelli J3 pro, its a 2 box PS with a seperate output stage fro better regulation. Costs more than China LPS but made in the UK, don't skimp on a LPS with your Dayzee if you can of course.
I did a couple of videos on it here: ruclips.net/video/ZVi8PkSdWl4/видео.html ruclips.net/video/nkuWvEj78gI/видео.html I do think it is wicked sweet sounding. Thx.
I have the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amp (around 400 bucks) paired with the Dali Spektor 2 speakers (250 bucks), and this combo has a "Not Interested In Anything More Expensive" kind of sound...
I own the Sivga Robin's. There is so much buzz around the Fiio FT1. Do you think they sound better than the Robin's in your estimation? If so, I may pick those up when they become available again and sell the Robin's. Thanks
Just a suggestion. Would content creators be interested in sitting down, discussing, new and vintage products? Sharing their thoughtss from different tastes, different music, varyng budgets, different age groups. Creating a tier list of products based on varying levels of experience.
I would if Linn would send me one. I did also qualify my statement by saying at $3000.00 there was nothing that competes. The Linn is $1700 more expensive. I stand by my conclusion. Thx for tuning in.
I've owned a couple of the AT 95 cartridge, and old and new style green model, which were both - ok. Recently I bought a Rega P1 Eco (saved $200 because of a couple of tiny blemishes) and the included cartridge sounded - ok. Then I put on the AT 95 Yellow and I was amazed to put if mildly. I haven't been this enraptured by a stylus/turntable - EVER, and I've had some very well respected turntables/carts in the past 55 year. I can't imagine your AT pick being better, I'm sure it is, but it's a little too rich for me on a retirement income.
I get it. I am a big fan of AT carts at almost any price point. I have been using them for decades. In fact I still have a mid 80's AT125LC which, thank goodness still has a good stylus because the replacement is $500.00. Yikes!. Thanks for tuning in.
Hi, Sorry, but the Fosi Audio ZD3 does not use a PRO dac chip from ESS, it would be the bargain of the year at this price and absolutely everyone would buy it. Instead, it uses the ES9039Q2M dAC Chip. Cheers, Happy Holidays!
This was a value at a price point listing. I thought for the same $4k the Rouge was a better value and performer. All subjective my friend. Thank you & Happy Holidays
Hello, Ed. I’m interested to know why you’re not a fan of Ortofon cartridges. I have the 2M Bronze and 2M Black and, honestly, I’ve never been completely satisfied with them. To me, they don’t produce the warm sound I’m used to hearing from vinyl records. What’re your thoughts?
It is simply a matter of personal taste. I do like the Ortofon OM10 at the entry level. I know the 2M series only differs in stylus design but I just don't find its sonic qualities to be pleasing to my ear. That's all. As long as you enjoy them, that's all that matters. Thanks for watching and Happy Holidays
With stock op-amps and even with the 3602s they are near is makes no difference sonically identical. For that reason and the difference in cost I think the J2S is the sweet spot. I only heard a very minor difference with the 2590s on that platform and only on the balanced outputs. On the Dayzee the 2590s on the balanced outputs, IMHO, it elevates the performance to near Chord Qutest level. That video will be out soon.
I have the Geshelli j2s ak4499 with Sparkos SS3602 on the RCA out, but I left the standard TI OPA1656 in the balanced out. I have the j2s outputting both xlr and rca outs into my Schiit Ragnarok 2, and I change the inputs to compare the sound. I'm having trouble distinguishing between both inputs. Both sound great with a very, very slight edge to the Sparkos RCA out. Am I hearing little difference because the xlr has dedicated TI op amps on each channel? I'm thinking of buying two SS3602s to replace the stock TIs, but I'm not sure I will hear the difference
@@Gazoo-sl3kr I would live with the TIs on the balanced side unless there is a very compelling reason to change them. Swapping op-amps is at best a subtle change. That said, I swapped the op-amps on the Dayzee to 2590s, added a linear power supply and HOLY MOLY what difference. May be get a nice linear PS for you J2S. I will be doing a video about LPS soon. Thank you. Happy Holidays
Great, thanks! Is there more difference in the S.M.S.L. PO100 and pro version than the MQA? I got the non-pro to test and it does what it's suppose to do..
The PO 100 Pro is the device I was talking about. I don't know of another SMSL device similar to this. As far as MQA, is that still a thing? To the best of my knowledge Tidal is switching away from MQA. Either way the PO 100 Pro does handle MQA. Thanks my friend and I wish you and your a very happy holiday season.
Ed, in your opinion would you get the Geshelli Labs Dayzee with the 2590 sparkos op amp upgrade in it or would you get the Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC?? I have a McIntosh C-40 and MC 2105 driving ESS Heil Towers with a Martin Logan 10 inch powered subwoofer
Patrick, I have not reviewed the 15H. I did review the 12H and truthfully the way I have the Dayzee now with the 2590s and the linear power supply it is very close. They each have their own sound. The Pontus 12H was clinical and the Dayzee a bit more warm. Both are giant ugly boxes so no winner there. Neither have remote controls, again no winner. With MAC gear being so warm the Pontus may inject a little life it to the sound. For me personally I like the sound of the Dayzee. I like buying form a small US based family business. Believe me, I have no issue with products made in Asia at all. I just like the way it sounds better is all. Totally subjective. That probably doesn't help you but really their is no best, just what each of us prefers. Thx,
I use these a lot. SX52B Full Discrete Dual Op Amp Module: www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.17.659d18021edHNz&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
Hey Ed😊Been watching 3E for a bit, verry out[ut impedance seems to be very well engineered Ed. The only cheap class D I tried had that unacceptable (to my.ears) rise in the upper freqs. Trumpets etc wayyyy too hot.
@@louiesipes2257 Honestly, I didn't have the same experience. I only used on my desktop with the Philharmonic True Minis and the PMC Prodigy Ones and it sound quite good to my ear. I think both of those speakers are 4 ohms. We missed you last night. I hope you and the family have a wonderful holiday season. Take care my friend.
@@OldGuyHifi You misunderstood, the only one I have tried….Not the 3E, had the Impedance sensitive frequency response. If the speaker has an impedance peak in the upper frequencies….which many do, the amps freq response will follow. I’ve been telling people Neil’s series crossover which has a very flat impedance sweep will not exhibit this fault. I may well buy the 3E in the future. Sounds like all had a ball last night, I’m sorry I missed it. Same to you and yours Ed😊
@@louiesipes2257 These new TI 3255 based chip amps have TI's new Post Filter FeedBack, TFFB circuit that keeps the amp form going crazy as the speaker's modulus of impedance fluctuates. I was taken it with right out of the box. It caught my ear enough that it is now ensconced on my desktop. Thank you my friend.
I just thought it would be better to cast a wider net and review a level of equipment that I am familiar with and discuss a hobby and an industry I was involved in year many, many years. Thanks.
@oldguyhifi - Ed, I wish You and your family a very happy holiday season this year! 🥳🥳🎄🎄 The Mrs hasn't noticed the new stuff on my desktop yet from Wiim & Emotiva . . .but when she does I've got some explaining to do! 😂😂You were very helpful in guiding me to a desktop system that I'm very pleased with while not having to sell my truck to get it. 😁Joy & good health be with you in 2025 my friend. 😉👍🏽
Edric my friend. Thank you so much. I hope you and your family have a great holiday full of love and cheer. Shhh, I won't tell your wife. I promise. Thanks buddy.
his my personal, subjective list. If your favorite product is not on it sorry. Don't light up the comments for that reason. This is based on performance at the price. I can only chose things I have reviewed. If I haven't reviewed it's not on the list. If you wish to join the channel and become a member please click here: www.youtube.com/@OldGuyHifi/membership
Awesome Ed…..love the speed dial moment on this stuff . Thanks……looking forward to another year.
Thanks!
Thank you so much for your support. I do appreciate it. I hope you and yours have a wonderful and safe holiday season.🙏
I watched last night and forgot to comment. You had a nice variety of items. Some of them I covet greatly. Nice job, Ed.
Thank you my friend.
Ed great video. It has been a pleasure and privilege to have interacted with you this year. I feel lucky to have access to your content. Happy new year!
Thank you my friend. Happy Holidays.
Thank you so much for deciding to become a HiFi RUclips reviewer. You are my favorite reviewer, and I really love your music recommendations. In particular, I loved your mention of Al DiMeola's Elegant Gypsy, which is an amazing display of jazz-rock fusion and virtuoso acoustic guitar playing.
I loved the way you added images Into the video. Super cool and helpful. 👍
Great video as always, thank you sir!!!!Greetings from Athens/Greece.🎶🎵
Thx.
Ed, this is a great list. That's why I always love your videos. I wish I liked headphones. I have an 8 dollar pair around here somewhere but I use it about once a year. LOL
Thanks Mike. BTW, Happy Holidays my friend.
Well done Ed. Some great products !!
Thank you my friend.
Nice video, Ed. Way to be brave with the SMSL PO100. That thing is pure gold for $60. Made a big difference between my Zen Stream and Pontus Ii.
Concur 100%. Great catch by Ed on the PO100Pro, for me anyway! Was skeptical even after watching randy's channel. Took a chance to pair it with my Fiio R2R DAC and Fostex mk4 over-ears. Instruments, vocals...tonality way better..instruments much much more detailed. Am running the smsl PO100 Pro in between my PC and the Fiio. Lastly, this best of 2024 video maybe one of the best of 2024 videos, amongst my audio channels best of 2024 lists 😂....Merry christmas and happy new year to all audio folks!🥳
I’ve tried it between my Ares 12th and WiiM Ultra and don’t get a signal to the Ares. Using the white USB cable that came with it to connect to the USB output on the WiiM. Then coax out to the Ares. I get nothing. The PO100 doesn’t seem to get any power this way. When I use a small USB hub and plug that into the WiiM and then plug the PO100 into that, it lights up but still nothing goes over to the Ares. Would really appreciate any help here.
@@jenslangen6164 You mentioned the white USB cable. The white USB cable that came with mine is USB-C to USB-C. Is that what yours is? If so, the Wiim Ultra does not have USB-C output, it has a USB type A output. The PO100 should have come with a black USB-A to USB-C cable, that is what would go from the Wiim Ultra's USB output to the PO100. And then you want to use the PO100's I2S output for maximum performance into the I2S input on your Ares 12th. That's key. Use any HDMI cable you have, preferably shorter length. Let me know.
I used the black cable from the WiiM to the PO100 and a short hdmi out from it to the Ares. The Ares shows no signal.
When I plugged the black cable into the PO100 an internal light flashed briefly but no light was showing after that.
Good gems you got there Ed. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thank you my friend. Happy Holidays.
Great picks! Have a few things in your sub $300 range on my list. ;)
Great, comprehensive list! Some real gems in there at every price point.
This was very nice, very good, with interesting products!
Thank you so much.
Wow! Cambridge audio must be a happy company tonight, to get so many accolades at once is one thing, but to get it from a guy who is quite simply by far and away the best reviewer online today is quite another. Fantastic round up of your years work sir.
I am sure they wouldn't notice. I appreciate the kind words. Thank you.
Great list of products. I was so close to scoring an Advanced Paris A10 amplifier. The Black Ice amplifier sounds like it could be an "end game" amplifier, too, if there is such a thing. Thanks Ed
Maybe next year? The F22 is really good.
The internet and channels like this have made it possible to climb the learning curve that wasn’t possible in 1970 when I started. Thanks
It is a nice resource. I am learning a lot too. Thx.
Ed! I have a few of the choices on the list in my systems. I'm thankful for the videos and knowledge gained by subscribing to the channel.
Thank you my friend. Happy Holidays.
Great job. Thanks
Thanks for watching!
Great list Ed! I’ve got a few of the cheaper products (ft1, zd3, j2s) and I definitely agree with you, some great gear for great prices, now I gotta fall real deep into the op amp rabbit hole, thanks Ed!
I bought the zd3 . I am changing the op amps and I ordered a linear power supply off Alli express, next week I am going to order a low noise super capacitor bank.
Nice, sounds like a fun nerd weekend!
Glad to see the Rogue. For the money, I love the Rogue Integrated Amp Sphinx 3 for about $2k hybrid tube driving my Magnepan .7. The sound is out of this world.
Great list Ed. So happy that the channel is doing so well. I totally understand that the amount of comments you're getting is too much to respond to all of them so I won't mind if I don't hear from you anymore. It's worth it to see you doing so well on here. Have a great Christmas Ed.
Thank you Daz. I wish you and yours a very Happy Holiday season. Best wishes. I will always find time to respond to you.
I was going back & forth on whether to buy Black Ice Audio gear or Advance Paris gear for about 3 months. I ultimately went with Black Ice Audio because I got a heck of a deal on an open box F360. I put a $200+ tube in my F360, and added a $120 power cable...I'm still a little under the closeout price for the unit, which is $1,999 usd.
I also bought the Black Ice Fusion9 MkIII phono preamp just to keep things uniform, aesthetically.
I'm happy with my Black Ice gear, but this is hobby for me at this point, so I'm quite sure I'll get to hear one of the nice Advance Paris preamplifiers in my system at some point. Or, at least I hope so.
I think you made the right choice. Don’t look back! Enjoy!
@@alexlopez-u3i I'm definitely not disappointed with the performance of my Black Ice Audio kit.
...but like I said. This is a hobby for me at this point, even though I didn't intend for that to be the case when I started. I'll eventually get ahold of that fancy dual mono solid state stereo preamp from Advance Paris. I have to. It bugs me that I didn't at least give that unit a listen prior to making a final decision. It will ALWAYS bug me.
I’ve had the Advance Paris X-i75 and I agree that for the money it’s amazing.
It is an awesome piece. I was soooo tempted. Thx. Happy Holidays.
Fun video Ed. Can’t wait for your thoughts on the Philharmonics. I’m very interested in what you found pairs well with blue speakers. 😁
I am actually going to film that review in the next day or so. I used them on my desktop with a Schiit G-Horn, the 3e Audio class D amp and in the media room I use them with the Black Ice F22 and my Cambridge EVO150. I think they will pair very well with decent quality amps and the better the amp the better the sound. That said that little 3e Audio amp sounded great with them. Look for the full review soon. Thx.
Nice round up. Im glad to see that you're a source first guy. I built my system source first, then heard a lot of reviewers say speakers first. Was kind of wondering if I did it backward.
Your videos are always informative and fun, keep up the great work.
Thanks Jim. Source first just makes the most sense. Happy Holidays to you and yours.
@OldGuyHifi yours as well!
Love your channel! Great info here, and what a great collection of 35mm and medium format cameras on the shelf!
For the record, I have a WiiM Ultra and SU-1… just picked up the PO100 Pro. Haven’t included it in the system yet, as I need the bass management from the Ultra, so hopefully there’s a firmware update for sub out and bass management with USB out. Reclocking was important in my studio recording days through ProTools and other DAWs. I’m sure it’ll make a sonic difference in most systems.
Keep me posted on how it goes for you. Thanks and Happy Holidays.
@@OldGuyHifi I have been A/B’ing the Ultra > PO100 Pro > SU-1 vs same chain less the PO100 Pro. There’s definitely an increase in instrument separation. I can hear more attack in the snare, and it seems like breaths from the singer and the texture of a pick hitting guitar strings is a little more life like. I have a very modest set of speakers in the Pioneer BS22s, but this definitely helps with detail to my ears. I’d love to get a set of 3 way bookies.
Now if WiiM would just release the firmware update for USB and Sub Out on the ultra!
@@joelnefph 🤞Happy Holidays.
Excellent selection for us to choose from, with your informative and insightful perspectives to guide us. Thank you so much for this content and all you have done for us with your channel. I look forward to the next year and more of your fantastic reviews. Take care, Sir, and I am a little disappointed that I couldn't test the Sundaras to hear the hype for myself. Take care and all the very best to you and the whole family, Sir.
Thank you Simon. I wish you the same my friend.
Bought the CA AXR100 on sale couple weeks ago for $490 and couldn't be happier, paired with my Wiim Ultra (also bought on sale at the same time). Amazing value!
Plug the Ultras optical in to the AXR100 DAC and tell me what you think> Best wishes. Thanks.
I simplified my main system to get a 300B based system for the den. I got the Triangle Magellan Duetto 40th speakers which I love with an RA280 amp and an Auralic Vegas S1. Steve Huff was reviewing this and saying hoiw it was 85% of his good system. It sounded like what I wanted for this room. 2 entry level products from companies that sell solid midfi. I almost kept the Vincent 237, but the Hifi Rose sounded better with the Triangles. Glad to see the speakers mentioned. The other option I had was Dynaudio Heritage Special which were a better match for Vincent. For me, while I may add other DACs later, I think this is my end game and my love of chasing the sound will be with the den system. As long as I have my tubes amp for immerisive vocalists. I use the Triangles with an HSU sub to get teh bass to fit my room.
3:55 “So you can use it remote controlly” Love it🤣❤️
Doh! Yeah. I didn't feel like reshooting all that. What the heck. I am human.
Thanks for recommending so many great products. I had to stop watching as the price climbed a little out of my justifiable range for the time I can spend listening. 😂
Great episode as always, thank you Ed. I have preordered a Dayzee. As you were mentioning the very affordable linear power supply for the Dayzee, can you provide the brand and model? Thanks again and wish you and all a great holiday season!
www.fiio.com/pl50 The issue is that right now it is only available from Ali Express and currently for 220 volt. It does not have a dual voltage AC in. I have been working with FiiO to get them to bring some 120 volt units to somewhere like Amazon. I will keep you posted.
@@OldGuyHifi Thank you Ed!
I went for an LPS from MCRU for my Gershelli J3 pro, its a 2 box PS with a seperate output stage fro better regulation. Costs more than China LPS but made in the UK, don't skimp on a LPS with your Dayzee if you can of course.
My CXA80 integrated amp has tone controls and a Wolfson DAC. Maybe it is better than CXA81? New and improved isn't always that.
I was going for the wiim ultra but after watching your review I am leaning towards the Cambridge sound streamer.
I did a couple of videos on it here: ruclips.net/video/ZVi8PkSdWl4/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/nkuWvEj78gI/видео.html
I do think it is wicked sweet sounding. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifi thanks Ed, I trust your judgement and I appreciate it 🙏
@@BostonMike68 Thank you. Keep me posted on what you do. Thx.
@OldGuyHifi Will do Ed. Thanks again 👍
I have the Cambridge Audio AXA35 amp (around 400 bucks) paired with the Dali Spektor 2 speakers (250 bucks), and this combo has a "Not Interested In Anything More Expensive" kind of sound...
That's great. Glad to hear. Obviously this video was not aimed at you. Thanks for watching.
I own the Sivga Robin's. There is so much buzz around the Fiio FT1. Do you think they sound better than the Robin's in your estimation? If so, I may pick those up when they become available again and sell the Robin's. Thanks
Just a suggestion. Would content creators be interested in sitting down, discussing, new and vintage products?
Sharing their thoughtss from different tastes, different music, varyng budgets, different age groups.
Creating a tier list of products based on varying levels of experience.
Good question.
24:35 bold statement. Then pls test the Linn Majik DSM.
I would if Linn would send me one. I did also qualify my statement by saying at $3000.00 there was nothing that competes. The Linn is $1700 more expensive. I stand by my conclusion. Thx for tuning in.
@OldGuyHifi yes, at 3.5K it is a bit more expensive, but the bigger problem is that Linn is notorious for *not* sending out review samples.
@@goodsound4756 Yes. I know. Thank you. Happy Holidays
I've owned a couple of the AT 95 cartridge, and old and new style green model, which were both - ok. Recently I bought a Rega P1 Eco (saved $200 because of a couple of tiny blemishes) and the included cartridge sounded - ok. Then I put on the AT 95 Yellow and I was amazed to put if mildly. I haven't been this enraptured by a stylus/turntable - EVER, and I've had some very well respected turntables/carts in the past 55 year. I can't imagine your AT pick being better, I'm sure it is, but it's a little too rich for me on a retirement income.
I get it. I am a big fan of AT carts at almost any price point. I have been using them for decades. In fact I still have a mid 80's AT125LC which, thank goodness still has a good stylus because the replacement is $500.00. Yikes!. Thanks for tuning in.
After I he recommended the Paris A7 it was obviously an ad
What are you implying?
Hi, Sorry, but the Fosi Audio ZD3 does not use a PRO dac chip from ESS, it would be the bargain of the year at this price and absolutely everyone would buy it. Instead, it uses the ES9039Q2M dAC Chip. Cheers, Happy Holidays!
Thanks for the correction. Happy Holidays.
I always like the ranking system some use rather than grouping by price range. It can take in price, features, quality of sound, etc.
This made sense to me. Not sure why it matters. But, thanks for tuning in.
@@OldGuyHifi Not complaining. You were quite detailed in your opinions, which I really appreciate.
Thanks. Happy Holidays!
Nice video! In my country I can have the x-i75 and MXN10 for the same price, which one would you choose?
DO you mean the AXR100? The MXN10 is a streamer only.
@ Yes, sorry, I meant the AXR100.
So, Ed, what happened to the Orchard Audio stuff you reviewed so favorably a few months ago?
This was a value at a price point listing. I thought for the same $4k the Rouge was a better value and performer. All subjective my friend. Thank you & Happy Holidays
Hello, Ed. I’m interested to know why you’re not a fan of Ortofon cartridges. I have the 2M Bronze and 2M Black and, honestly, I’ve never been completely satisfied with them. To me, they don’t produce the warm sound I’m used to hearing from vinyl records. What’re your thoughts?
It is simply a matter of personal taste. I do like the Ortofon OM10 at the entry level. I know the 2M series only differs in stylus design but I just don't find its sonic qualities to be pleasing to my ear. That's all. As long as you enjoy them, that's all that matters. Thanks for watching and Happy Holidays
How about a list of all the vendors that lent you the equipment to review?
Christopher, I am sorry, what are you implying?
Great read Ed! I'm just curious as to why you recommended the geshelli j2s vs a similarly configured j3. Cost?
With stock op-amps and even with the 3602s they are near is makes no difference sonically identical. For that reason and the difference in cost I think the J2S is the sweet spot. I only heard a very minor difference with the 2590s on that platform and only on the balanced outputs. On the Dayzee the 2590s on the balanced outputs, IMHO, it elevates the performance to near Chord Qutest level. That video will be out soon.
@@OldGuyHifi Makes sense. Thanks for the quick reply.
I have the Geshelli j2s ak4499 with Sparkos SS3602 on the RCA out, but I left the standard TI OPA1656 in the balanced out. I have the j2s outputting both xlr and rca outs into my Schiit Ragnarok 2, and I change the inputs to compare the sound. I'm having trouble distinguishing between both inputs. Both sound great with a very, very slight edge to the Sparkos RCA out. Am I hearing little difference because the xlr has dedicated TI op amps on each channel? I'm thinking of buying two SS3602s to replace the stock TIs, but I'm not sure I will hear the difference
@@Gazoo-sl3kr I would live with the TIs on the balanced side unless there is a very compelling reason to change them. Swapping op-amps is at best a subtle change. That said, I swapped the op-amps on the Dayzee to 2590s, added a linear power supply and HOLY MOLY what difference. May be get a nice linear PS for you J2S. I will be doing a video about LPS soon. Thank you. Happy Holidays
Thanks. I look forward to the review on linear power supplies. Thanks again, Happy holidays to you. Enjoy your family
And what happens when all those tariffs kick in?
Idk.
How would you characterize the sound of the CA AXR100? Cool, warm, neutral? Thanks for the great suggestions!
It rides the warm side of neutral. It is smooth & detailed and sweet. Images extraordinarily well.
Great, thanks! Is there more difference in the S.M.S.L. PO100 and pro version than the MQA? I got the non-pro to test and it does what it's suppose to do..
The PO 100 Pro is the device I was talking about. I don't know of another SMSL device similar to this. As far as MQA, is that still a thing? To the best of my knowledge Tidal is switching away from MQA. Either way the PO 100 Pro does handle MQA. Thanks my friend and I wish you and your a very happy holiday season.
♥
Ed, in your opinion would you get the Geshelli Labs Dayzee with the 2590 sparkos op amp upgrade in it or would you get the Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC?? I have a McIntosh C-40 and MC 2105 driving ESS Heil Towers with a Martin Logan 10 inch powered subwoofer
Patrick, I have not reviewed the 15H. I did review the 12H and truthfully the way I have the Dayzee now with the 2590s and the linear power supply it is very close. They each have their own sound. The Pontus 12H was clinical and the Dayzee a bit more warm. Both are giant ugly boxes so no winner there. Neither have remote controls, again no winner. With MAC gear being so warm the Pontus may inject a little life it to the sound. For me personally I like the sound of the Dayzee. I like buying form a small US based family business. Believe me, I have no issue with products made in Asia at all. I just like the way it sounds better is all. Totally subjective. That probably doesn't help you but really their is no best, just what each of us prefers. Thx,
What op amps were recommended for zd3 I know sparkos but to much money for me
I use these a lot. SX52B Full Discrete Dual Op Amp Module: www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.17.659d18021edHNz&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
The Audio Technica headshell combo has a total of 6 CONNECTIONS per cable line!! Audio quality WILL SUFFER !
Odd. For 50 years removable headshells have been an accepted solution.
How does the Fiio ft1 pro Vs edition xs?
I don't know. I haven't listened to the Edition XA.
@OldGuyHifi how the ft1 pro compare to the sundara?
@@calvinyip364 Too close to call.
@@OldGuyHifi which do you prefer? And does the ft1 pro detail and resolution on par with the sundara?
I liked the FT-1 Pro better. Better sounding, IMHO, better built and more comfortable.
SMSL PO100 is the truth use it with a J2 socketed, ROHN chip topping connected to a DMP-A6
Hey Ed😊Been watching 3E for a bit, verry out[ut impedance seems to be very well engineered Ed. The only cheap class D I tried had that unacceptable (to my.ears) rise in the upper freqs. Trumpets etc wayyyy too hot.
Low output impedance,😊
@@louiesipes2257 Honestly, I didn't have the same experience. I only used on my desktop with the Philharmonic True Minis and the PMC Prodigy Ones and it sound quite good to my ear. I think both of those speakers are 4 ohms. We missed you last night. I hope you and the family have a wonderful holiday season. Take care my friend.
@@OldGuyHifi You misunderstood, the only one I have tried….Not the 3E, had the Impedance sensitive frequency response. If the speaker has an impedance peak in the upper frequencies….which many do, the amps freq response will follow. I’ve been telling people Neil’s series crossover which has a very flat impedance sweep will not exhibit this fault. I may well buy the 3E in the future. Sounds like all had a ball last night, I’m sorry I missed it. Same to you and yours Ed😊
@@louiesipes2257 These new TI 3255 based chip amps have TI's new Post Filter FeedBack, TFFB circuit that keeps the amp form going crazy as the speaker's modulus of impedance fluctuates. I was taken it with right out of the box. It caught my ear enough that it is now ensconced on my desktop. Thank you my friend.
Renamed to The Not So Cheap Audio Man
I just thought it would be better to cast a wider net and review a level of equipment that I am familiar with and discuss a hobby and an industry I was involved in year many, many years. Thanks.
@oldguyhifi - Ed, I wish You and your family a very happy holiday season this year! 🥳🥳🎄🎄 The Mrs hasn't noticed the new stuff on my desktop yet from Wiim & Emotiva . . .but when she does I've got some explaining to do! 😂😂You were very helpful in guiding me to a desktop system that I'm very pleased with while not having to sell my truck to get it. 😁Joy & good health be with you in 2025 my friend. 😉👍🏽
Edric my friend. Thank you so much. I hope you and your family have a great holiday full of love and cheer. Shhh, I won't tell your wife. I promise. Thanks buddy.
Thanks!
Thank you so much for your support. I do appreciate it. I hope you and yours have a wonderful and safe holiday season. 🙏