About the Matrix Audio ND-1 DAC

I think one you should consider at the same price is the Gustard R30.  It’s an R2R DAC and has gotten some very favorable reviews and seems very well engineered.  Thought you’d find this review interesting as directly compares the R30 favorably to the more expensive Venus 15th (and his considerably more expensive Rockna DAC), which would obviously be a significant upgrade from your Pontus II.  Hope this helps, and best of luck. 

https://soundnews.net/reviews/sources/gustard-r30-dac-review-the-r2r-perfection/

@soix 

FYI, Terry on Pursuit Perfect Sound compares the R30 to the Matrix, starting at the 13 minute mark.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HF9R4OfNQbM

@curiousjim -- I’m sure you won’t disagree that @audphile1 makes an excellent point. It depends how badly you’re eager to try it. I looked around for a shop that 1) sells the Matrix and 2) offers a return policy without a restock fee and could not readily find one. Dedicated mentions a "possible re-stock fee". You could ask them for clarification. 

https://www.dedicatedaudio.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=470094203&gbraid=0AAAAAD_BbC9EEgmTUClUI0hiULCOM4IV9&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsYm-2KHilAMVdSdECB37lgFeEAAYASAAEgJzy_D_BwE

@audphile1 

I did see the 14 day trial and I’m probably going to do it.

Thanks.

@soix 

According to Terry, he thought the high end on the R30 was a bit more sharp sounding than the ND-1 and that’s why he preferred ND-1 and my ears get sensitive in that area.  The same reason I got rid of the KEF speakers. The aluminum Q-Driver hurt my ears at relatively low levels.

@stuartk 

I heard the comparison and the main reason he preferred the ND-11 over the R30 he said the top end was over extended.

BTW,

How are you enjoying the Merason?