Budrew, I cannot comment on the sound of the AN vs. EMC-1 but I can tell you that the AN DAC 1.2 (1,100.00 kit) gives my 47 Labs Flatfish/Progression (8,200.00) a SERIOUS run for the money. The inexpensive(?) DAC 1.2 is slightly warmer sounding overall, but totally non fatiguing and very musical. I can only assume the AN DAC 3.1 with trans coupling, etc. takes the design to the next level.
Comments on Audio Note CD Players
Any comments on the Audio Notes CD players? They seem to be an underdog. How would, say, the 3.1x compare to the Electrocompaniet EMC-1 CD player or the like? Non-digital, non-fatiguing sound is very important. How would the Audio Note mate with a tubed preamp and hybrid amp? Thanks!