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Eversolo T8 vs Lumin U2 and Laiv Harmony DAC

Tested the Eversolo T8 for a couple days now.

Some quick points: 

In a stereo setup with USB to Fezz Audio Equinox tube DAC with Fezz Lybra 300B amp and Harbeth HL5+ XD speakers against the Lumin U2. The Eversolo is compressed between the speakers. Sound stage is just within each speaker and vocals very centered. The Lumin U2 extends the sound stage about 10 feet outside the speakers either side and much more 3D depth. Instruments and vocals much more in real positions rather than compressed to center.

In headphone setup with LAIV Harmony DAC to Woo Audio WA22 balanced tube amp and Focal Utopia. USB sounds more organic but a little less clear. I2S sounds more detailed but has a slight harshness. Almost like the I2S connection is not perfectly matching to the LAIV I2S input. Compared to Denafrips ARCE into Ares 15th with I2S I would say the Denafrips is a little warmer and more musical with good sync between streamer and DAC. 

Just some initial thoughts. Overall for the price it is a good streamer. Lumin U2 is much much better.

I'll wait for the LAIV streamer and return the Eversolo.

calieng
calieng OP
203 posts
 

@jacupmakeup 

I can only say the USB implementation on the Lumin is better than the Eversolo (and associated internal components - clock chips etc) based on the difference in soundstage and clarity when connected to the Fezz Audio DAC.  

Neither the Fezz or the Lumin have I2S to compare with the Eversolo I2S. I did not try COAX or Toslink to compare. So if you are using I2S connection then the Eversolo wins by default.

Having said all that my Denafrips ARCAS mated to the Pontus 15th R2R DAC is the absolute best sounding combo that I have. That is running a Woo Audio WA33 headphone amp.

It is all about synergy between the components so every different combination may give different results.

 

 

jacupmakeup
34 posts
 

Thanks OP. 

I'm curious because I have the Eversolo A6 with LPS. I added two USB reclocker/regenerators, which massively increased the soundstage. 

I'm really curious how my frankenstreamer setup matches up with the likes of the Lumin U2. I'm also considering the T8, but not sure if it would bring any additional SQ improvements to what I'm currently rocking. 

tutonunez
19 posts
 

@ericrhodes1 You should also consider that LUMIN U2 has LEEDH Processing, which is an amazing lossless digital volume controller, so I don't use PRE (only when I listen to vinyl..). LEEDH Processing is implemented in SOULUTION for a reason..

calieng OP
203 posts
 

@jacupmakeup 

I had the original Eversolo Master A6 with LHY linear power supply, the Gen2 Master A6 and the A8 (sold or returned them all). The Eversolo T8 is much better as a streamer than the other Eversolo models - in every regard including a decent built in linear power supply instead of the faulty one in the A6 Gen2.

Lumin U2 is on another lever from Eversolo for build quality and sound refinement (for more money as others have said). But you need a system that can resolve that difference otherwise there is no need to pay more.

Not knowing everyone's financial situation I would say upgrade to the T8 first. If you are going to spend Lumin money (or other high end brand) I would recommend to actually listened to it first.

 

 

lanx0003
1,961 posts
 

@calieng  Did you hold on T8 until the end of trial period?  What is your verdict?  Did SS open up?  Thank you.

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