"The Pangea AC9 was too dark sounding and obscured details on each component i tried it on"
Funny, I found the opposite to be true in my system. I switched out a Morrow MAP2 (which I hold in high regard)for the AC9 in my Bryston 4B-ST and my system opened up. The mid range fleshed out and the soundstage became wider and deeper. I am hearing details in familiar pieces that I have never heard before. I added another one in CAL Sigma DAC and the whole system is singing as never before. I just ordered another one for my NAD integrated in my secondary system.
Funny, I found the opposite to be true in my system. I switched out a Morrow MAP2 (which I hold in high regard)for the AC9 in my Bryston 4B-ST and my system opened up. The mid range fleshed out and the soundstage became wider and deeper. I am hearing details in familiar pieces that I have never heard before. I added another one in CAL Sigma DAC and the whole system is singing as never before. I just ordered another one for my NAD integrated in my secondary system.