I have compared both the Ayon new 5s is noticeably better than the AR
Dac8 and with the new preamp section it is incredible ,custom R core transformers made in Japan super expensive also best dacs Ever made
1704k versions 2 per channel 34 lbs 4 tube super heavy duty rectified supply ,nd 2 tubes per channel for the preamp section,also. This is very important it has 3 gain settings 4v,6v,8v which matches your amp output
And is a huge advantage in fidelity, do yourself a favour read all the reviews and look inside it is a masterpiece in build quality and th unit runs not to warm 5-7000 hrs between tube changes .
Dac8 and with the new preamp section it is incredible ,custom R core transformers made in Japan super expensive also best dacs Ever made
1704k versions 2 per channel 34 lbs 4 tube super heavy duty rectified supply ,nd 2 tubes per channel for the preamp section,also. This is very important it has 3 gain settings 4v,6v,8v which matches your amp output
And is a huge advantage in fidelity, do yourself a favour read all the reviews and look inside it is a masterpiece in build quality and th unit runs not to warm 5-7000 hrs between tube changes .