I own a DK VS-1 MKII, but am currently using an Almarro A205A MKII as my 2 channel driver. I have heard the DK MKIII and the Signature model at recent CES/THEshow. At home compared to my mid-line Nakamichi receiver it is sonically superior in all aspects. At my local high end audio store when compared to any tube amplifier with a MSRP of equal or greater value it does not compare as well. Changing the 6922 input tubes to better quality and a decent power cord with a properly matched power conditioner helps (of course) but in my opinion is required as a minimum for use. Today we tried the DK VS-1 on some Soundlab speakers which are known to be an extremly dificult load for transistor amps and actually the DK did pretty good, not like a Wolcott of course, but acceptable for a transistor amp. My recent listen to MKIII and Signature models I actually prefer my own VS-1, but keep in mind there are/were many problems at THEShow to get best sound out of demoe'd components. At CES/SHOW, IF audio memory serves correctly there are several small popular integrated amps that are good, maybe even better than the DK but do not have phono input or quite the rated power. I have found I personally prefer the "quality" of the single-ended triode type amps versus the typical transistor amp, thus my opinion is somewhat biased in that direction. Closing-up I think the DK price-point is correct, possibly good value considering the phono-stage. Used DK in the $1500-$2000 range a better choice. Helps this helps, just my opinon, Mike
what is the REAL deal with DK
I know there has been a lot on this manufacturer, but I just discovered them myself(today). I have never read so many positives while at the same time read so many negatives on any on amp(or any product for that matter). At the same time they are getting huge pats on the back from two different magazines? Could some owners of the Dk vs1 mk 2 offer there opinions that still own them, I maybe looking for an intergrated hybrid that has some power and this is the only one that seems to fit the bill in my price range. So...why the extreme positive and negative?!