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New Onix XDA20 DAC vs old Esoteric N-05

I thought the new Onix XDA20 dac (UK product made by Shanling) with the latest ESS ES9039PRO chip should trounce my very old Esoteric N-05 dac with the AKM AK4490 chip. Unfortunately, no. It is not just the chip but the overall implementation. The Onix sounds thin, not so layered, not as airy and not as well founded when compared to the old Esoteric. 

Be wary of the newest chips in less than stellar clothing. 

Enjoy the music!

jon2020
jon2020's avatar
jon2020 OP
1,000 posts
 

+1, 996turbo911.

lordmelton's avatar
lordmelton
1,179 posts
 

I have a Musetec MH-06 with an ESS 9039 chip and it's absolutely fantastic. AKM chips are warmer sounding and that's probably what you prefer. AKM has rebuilt their plant after it burned down a few years ago so there are many current DACs with the latest AKM chips available.

Another thing is DAC burn in that could take 3-4 months.

jon2020's avatar
jon2020 OP
1,000 posts
 

@lordmelton 

"...AKM chips are warmer sounding and that’s probably what you prefer."

True for my system.

Good to know you are very happy with your Musetec.

mahler123
3,996 posts
 

I much prefer the house AKM sound to that of ESS, but yes implementation is also crucial 

jon2020's avatar
jon2020 OP
1,000 posts
 

+1, @mahler123.

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