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DAC Comparisons using AI

After a couple of years trying different DACs in my system, I ended up with the Aries Cerat Helene (R2R) and the SMc Audio DAC-2 (delta-sigma) in my main system.  

I have been considering other options, and decided to use AI to help me imagine the possibilities.  I have found it actually works pretty well if you are able to specifically address what you are looking for. Anyone else here believe you are getting helpful answers by using AI when considering a purchase?

I have been asking specific questions like:

  • What sonic difference would be achieved by upgrading the Aries Cerat Helene to the Kassandra Reference II?
  • Might someone who enjoys the sound of the Aries Cerat Helene find the EMM Labs DV2i to sound fatiguing?
  • Compare the sonic signatures between the Aries Cerat Helene, MSB Technology Premier, and Totaldac D-1 Triunity.

I have not yet encountered answers I would consider total BS, and using AI has sort of bridged the gap between different industry reviews, like when you finish reading a review and wish, if only the reviewer had compared X to Y.

 

mitch2
ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,466 posts
 

Broad question with qualitative answers are generally handled well. It is highly specific answers it typically hallucinates. How you ask questions is important. Sometimes if you come at it in a could different ways you will get a better feeling.

I have used it extensively and I will check the sources and validate its interpretation prior to an actually purchase. But, it can be excellent. When I ask for characterization of sonic qualities that I am familiar with it is virtually alway right on.  My default is ChatGPT.

mike_in_nc
1,250 posts
 

I wish you good luck in choosing a new DAC.

About AI . . . if it's the AI that will be listening to music after you choose a DAC, letting AI pick winners and losers is an excellent approach. However if you will be listening, AI could be useful in helping narrow the field, but should be taken with more than a grain of salt. Be aware, AI simply amalgamates reviews and manufacturers' PR. There will be no substitute for an audition in your own system to tell you how you respond the the sound of any particular piece.

mitch2 OP
4,747 posts
 

It is helpful to understand and be aware of your own subjective listening preferences. Just asking AI to pick the best DAC out of two will get you nowhere. However by knowing what sonic attributes you most appreciate and enjoy, and then asking questions that cause the search to expound on what you will hear from certain equipment, AI can be helpful in keeping you from heading down the wrong path. Back in the day, it might have helped me save money and stay out of rabbit holes.

mike_in_nc
1,250 posts
 

OK, just beware the "unknown unknowns"!

 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,577 posts
 

Don't trust AI.   It is just an aggregate of Q and A that gets regurgitated whether it is fact or opinion.   

Do a search on any component , your hits are all pulled from the very forums we all belong to along with Reddit and every other site out there.  

Trust your ears 

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