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Which DAC? Levinson, Theta, Sonic Frontiers

I'm considering upgrading from my Theta IIIa Dac, and wonder what the sonic characteristics are of 3 highly respected Dac's: The SFD-2 Mk. II, ML No. 36, and the Theta Gen. Va.

My system is: SFT-1 & ML 37 transports, SFL-2 preamp, DNA-225, & Vandersteen 2Ce Sigs.

I've looked at many reviews of these pieces, & although all reviewers liked them all, there were criticisms:

SFD-2: Bass a bit bloomy, not as tight & defined, but warmed up the sound. Upper mids prominent, with female voices displaying sibilance. Some treble grain, not as open as ML. A forward sound.

ML 36: Bass tight & defined, but not up to Theta's. More detailed & open & airy highs. Slightly laid back perspective. Vocals not as exciting. Big soundstage with great delineation of individual instruments, but not palpable like the SFD-2.

Theta Gen. Va: Best bass of all. Soundstage & imaging quite good, but ML 36 still better. Not quite as airy & open at the top, less well defined space around and between instruments.

What is your experience?????
kevziek
welcher's avatar
welcher
98 posts
 
I have both a Theta GEN Va and Mark Levinson 36S.
They have very different presentations.

The Gen Va high spot lights the the high frequency
sounds. The ML 36S is more balanced and
does not high light the high frequencies.
lev335
220 posts
 
I would consider the 360 or the 360s they are worlds apart from the 36 and also blow away any of the above mentioned. Also they cost more money the sonic frontiers can sound a little thin the theta is also very good but they add alot of warmth to their sound which gives you a false presentation of what is on the recording. The Levinson has the tonal accuracy. Wide & deep sounstage and liquid mids. If money is an issue then buy a 36 which in my opinion sounds better than the above mentioed also. And send it in for the upgrade when you have the extra cash. Good luck Dan
genesis168's avatar
genesis168
408 posts
 
Lev335 is right on the money. Get the no.36. Great sounding DAC with an honest presentation without any highlighting. Hear what's on the CD.
garfish
1,840 posts
 
I also agree with the Levinson DACS, and personally use the 360S. Good Luck.
glide3
402 posts
 
It's not on your list but look into an audiologic 2400...very good dac.
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