Using an X-10D is kind of like filling a gaping wound with sand i.e. you've stopped the bleeding but you've got a festering sore waiting to explode.
Having said that, i agree with Marakanetz' post. The X-10D "works" by rounding off the leading edge of notes ( reduces harshness and glare ) and increasing the level of "ear pleasing" distortions. Going to the MSB is technically a big step forward, but it is not the most pleasant sounding DAC and can tend to sound a bit hard and glaring when used in conjunction with most poorly recorded cd's. "Revealing" or not, having a system that is unpleasant to listen to is not very fun or enjoyable.
Obviously, the aforementioned problems are what you are currently trying to avoid by using the X-10D. While installing the X-10D would combat those characteristics in the MSB, you're back to using a band-aid rather than curing the problem and really advancing your system. As such, i would seek out other methods to improve your sound rather than investing in the MSB. Just bare in mind that your system DOES function as a system, so changing one component by itself may not give you exactly what you are looking for until you've balanced out the various "weak links" that you may encounter along the way. Sean
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Having said that, i agree with Marakanetz' post. The X-10D "works" by rounding off the leading edge of notes ( reduces harshness and glare ) and increasing the level of "ear pleasing" distortions. Going to the MSB is technically a big step forward, but it is not the most pleasant sounding DAC and can tend to sound a bit hard and glaring when used in conjunction with most poorly recorded cd's. "Revealing" or not, having a system that is unpleasant to listen to is not very fun or enjoyable.
Obviously, the aforementioned problems are what you are currently trying to avoid by using the X-10D. While installing the X-10D would combat those characteristics in the MSB, you're back to using a band-aid rather than curing the problem and really advancing your system. As such, i would seek out other methods to improve your sound rather than investing in the MSB. Just bare in mind that your system DOES function as a system, so changing one component by itself may not give you exactly what you are looking for until you've balanced out the various "weak links" that you may encounter along the way. Sean
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