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Source Components, Genuinely Need Your Assistance

Hello,

I currently own an excellent system that replays the source material incredibly faithful to the original recording. The system is exactly what I originally set out to accomplish.

Like many others, I set out to assemble a system that was supremely neutral and would replay the original recording truthfully.

My music collection is primarily R&B, Motown, Soul and Funk. Most of which was poorly recorded using standard/lower quality mediums & new music which was created primarily with the use of Digital Synthesizers. When listening to these recordings, voices and instruments do not sound 100% authentic. Its approximately 85% "real". Thing is I know its not going to get there simply because its not on the recording.

I know this because when I listen to any "audiophile" grade recordings, regardless of genre, my system sounds perfect. Simply perfect. I am completely satisfied.

I realize now, based on the types of music I listen to, I should have never ventured into this hobby as the recordings I listen to just can't do a high fidelity system much justice.

Now its simply too late, I am heavily invested and I want to enjoy my stereo with "non-audiophile approved" music.

--------------------------------------

I am looking for a new source component, DAC or CD Player that will "color" the sound to my tastes.

The midband must not overly emphasize vocals, but rather highlight them. Vocals should be completely organic, authentic, natural, realistic, believable, thick and enveloping. Budget $8000USD

So far I have found these favorable reviews:

Ancient Audio Lektor Prime
E.A.R. Yoshino Acute mk3
E.A.R. Yoshino DAC 192
E.A.R. Yoshino DAC4 (release coming soon?)
Vincent Audio CD-S8
Yamamoto YDA-01B

I'm looking for some assistance, preferably from members who have actually heard the components they are recommending or suggesting.

Once I have a solid list I will seek out the dealers and listen first hand, hopefully get some in home trials.

Any help is much appreciated.

Best regards,
Shawn
sk3383

Showing 4 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Hi Shawn,
It would be helpful as others have mentioned to list your system components. I can comment on the Yamamoto DAC, it wonderfully natural and conveys the emotions of music very convincingly. The overall vibe-sound is organic with excellent tone and body, however it won't add gratuitous warmth or phoney coloration. In fact it's very resolved and realistic and avoids any hint of analytical- clinical artificiality.

It's worth checking in to and is a music lover's delight without superimposed romaticism. Cost (depending on the yen) is 2800-3000USD. I belive you'd really enjoy its presentation of music.
Good Luck,
Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Hi Brett,
Well the truth is we hear pretty much alike, just look at our systems. I'd be
just as happy with yours as mine. I have no idea how Shawn hears music,
but if similar to us he'll adore the little known Yamamoto DAC.
Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Al,
You and Chayro's suggestion of different speakers and especially your EQ
recommendation makes good sense. Grannyring in the context of this
discussion your advice is well reasoned. Assuming Shawn doesn't want to
dismantle his system, a high quality musically natural source is essential.
If the source is inadequate, nothing further downstream is going to correct
the deficiency the source generated. Some digital components can tend to
be mechanical, amusical and lack a natural liquidity and musical flow, a
good source can transform this type of sound. I would agree you don't have
to spend anywhere near 8000 USD to achieve a fabulous sounding front
end that effectively communicates music's joy and message.

Charles,
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,230 posts
 
Hi Shawn,
That's really good the direction your sound is taking, patience Is a virtue. Depending on one's system, any component can be the weak link and a change there can be dramatic. Not knowing your system, advice and recommendations are speculative. Since you listed DACs I went in that direction.
Best of Luck,
Charles,
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