Tarun, you are a tour de force in this audiophile space. I learn something new with every posting. Thank you.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Jay. That is very kind 👍😊👍

What a fantastic review, absolutely first class work, thank you. Your explanation of the circuit layout was fascinating, as an engineer, this is the sort of thing I live for. Thank you for all your hard work.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you John. Very kind of you to say 👍😊👍

Thanks Tarun. I always await your reviews with great anticipation.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy 😊👍

This was the best review I have heard in a long time. Detailed but at the same time very engaging. I have the Ares II and feel it may be my best component dollar for dollar. Thanks for all of the hard work.

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Robert. That is very kind. I agree that the Ares II is hard to compete with when it comes to bang for the buck 😊👍

Always such thorough reviews. Your analysis of the Pontus II swayed my decision to purchase that DAC. The Denafrips DACs seem to be exceptional products regardless of price. This amp/preamp combo appear to be exceptional considering their price. Thanks again.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for Doug. So pleased you are enjoying your Pontus II 👍😊👍

Excellent review & great to see your approach at looking at the internals.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊👍

Thanks for the extensive review Tarun. My entire system is a mixed and matched system. Bowers & Wilkins CM5 speakers, Parasound 275V2 power amp, Schiit Freya S preamp, Fluance RT82 turntable with Ortofon OM30 cartridge, Simaudio Moon 110LP (V1 not V2) with upgraded LPSU, Cambridge Audio DACMagic100, Shanling Tempo eC1B CD transport, Apple TV 2nd gen as a streamer. I can confidently say that while not being the most expensive component, the Schiit preamp is the star of the system. No single upgrade was as significant as getting the Pioneer Elite VSX52 AVR (not a slouch by AVR standards) out of the chain as the preamp. I've mentioned in a previous review of yours that I think your highest reviewed amplifiers sound-quality wise use passive preamp sections. Exposure, Atoll, Willsenton, IotaVX PA3 (not a preamp, though it did hold higher regard than the SA3). Even the Hegel's best qualities at the lower price points are the electronics like the DAC and network features. My experience is a well designed preamp allows the entire system to sing. I can't recommend the Schiit preamps highly enough and consider any of their preamps to be endgame quality depending on the listener's preferences and needs.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Aaron. I hope to review some Schiit gear this year 😊👍

@nareshnarasimhan9774

Жыл бұрын

Thank You for the info on the mix and match system . With a Ares 2 DAC iam evaluating (cant audition) between Hestia ( Not Hades) and Freya S . Any fruther thoughs welcome

An excellent review. Always a pleasure to hear your thoughts and opinions. Well done.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Paul. Much appreciated 👍😊👍

Refreshing to hear you point out the downsides as well as the upsides of a component as well as what can synergistically work with it.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊👍

Thanks Tarun! Great review! I love the dot matrix display on the Hades too.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you PW. It does look pretty cool 😎👍

Yet again, another very thorough and interesting review. I have no experience of matching pre and power amps, as I have had my Linn combo for 30 - 35 years. Keep up the great work.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Richard 😊👍

Tarun, nice review! Pleasant to hear honest thoughts on products! I agree with you that brand sound tend to work better together than mixing and matching. I have occasionally hit a good synergy, but more often than not I have feel, I have missed something. I also like a preamp versus just playing from a DAC. Keep up the good work.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Joel. Much appreciated 😉👍

It has been a month with the Ares II, Hades pre and Thallo amp, driving a pair of KLH Model 5 speakers. All I can say is, "Audio Nirvana". The class A architecture of the Hades and Thallo is just incredible. The sound that the Ares II DAC produces is night and day over the delta sigma DACs, gone is that clinical digital sound. The sound is full and rich in a good way. The soundstage is huge, very vinyl, the bass is just incredible and fast. Even at moderate volumes the bass is clean and you can actually feel it through the floor with the Model 5's, you will never get this sound with a bookshelf speaker. For the money, you guys can do the math, I think this setup is a steal! Yes, you cannot blast this setup due to the lack of signal strength from the Hades, which Tarun mentioned. I thought that would be an issue, but quite honestly, it is not, as the sound out of this setup negates having to play it at high volumes. The sound, the music is engaging, the bass is fantastic with Ares II DAC and the Model 5's. The only upgrade I see in my future is the Pontus II DAC. The volume is not an issue, it does get plenty loud, and sound is just incredible, it is very old school and vinyl sounding. A sound you can sit and listen to for hours on end. If you are thinking of this Denafrips package, for the money, I do not believe you will be disappointed. Just make sure your speakers are up to the task. The Model 5's are going to be hard to beat, I would suggest pairing them with this setup. Go see Jays video on the Hades, Thallo and Model 5's, he nailed it. Just my .02

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing your experiences Michael 😊

@michaelwright1602

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Tarun, your review was spot on, you nailed it too. Just arrived home from work, listening to Grace Mayha Last Live at DUB Tokyo, love this SACD.

@BostonMike68

4 ай бұрын

I love the looks of this little package and I am looking into buying them. I have similar style speakers as the khl and my listing room is 12" ×16 . It seems like it would get plenty loud for my space and again I love the minimalist look.

A superb review once again. Excellent tour of the internals and descriptive review summing up. Really impressive pieces it would seem and a brand to consider no doubt. I think that one would get an extremely high end/quality system for relatively little cost, in high end terms.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and your kind words of support Caroline 😊👍

Like most things, having matching units is advantageous. My experience with an AGI 511a pre and any amp I have tried with it is met with much grinning. Can’t do that with many other preamps, but this preamp has always been highly sought out after and those lucky enough to have had a George Merrill modified version, find their system even more revealing. Some like having matching components and from a looks standpoint their point is valid. There wasn’t an AGI power amp, so that is unknown territory. I’ve had tube and solid state amps hooked up to the AGI preamp and it never disappoints! Few have it’s openness or anything close to it’s transparency. I’m sure there are more revealing components, but I wouldn’t trade either of the two I have. Having one is satisfaction enough, but two is sheer pleasure! Enjoying and being able to enjoy what you listen to is what this hobby is really all about. It’s yours and you should please yourself and the world hasn’t boo to say of it for it is yours and your ears. You must decide. In any given price point, there is compromise. Find your happiness and seize it today! Tomorrow will find you lacking! Cheers Tarun! Stay safe my mates!😊👍🏻😷

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Mark. Great to hear from you 😊👍

I agree, matching pre’s and amp’s is tough. After many years on this game, I’ve given up separate pre& and went integrated. Integrated came a long way and today you have awesome options.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Indeed. Thank you Manuel 😊👍

@alphaniner3770

2 жыл бұрын

I agree Manuel ;o) - alternatively, if the system allows it, one could go for a passive preAMP, especially with some specialized brands that allow further customization (e.g. Khozmo).

@briancody8663

2 жыл бұрын

Have the LUXMAN 590X and couldn't agree more.. This is my forever precious..

@bubamaric9564

Жыл бұрын

Luxman will do job!!!!it reminds me on the sound of the old Yamaha receiver, RX-V 2095 with 2 ch set up.

Thank you Tarun for another excellent review. I'll state again how useful I find your comparisons, not just raving aout the latest product under review. I agree that most of the time using a pre and power combination from the same manufacturer yields the best results. However, many years ago I had a Marantz integrated with a blown power stage. Couldn't afford to fix it but got a great deal on a refurbished Heathkit tube power amp. The Heathkit had volume controls. Using the variable pre-out with the Heathkit's volume pots was an interesting way to change the sound of the system. This technique was shown to me by a professional in the Sound Reinforcement business.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Always great to learn about your experiences, my friend. Thank you for sharing and your support 👍😊👍

Another great review tarun, wonderful build quality putting many others to shame, interesting sound signature, definitely needs to be tried with your own equipment if possible before purchasing,. Looking forward to seeing another review soon.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Paul 😊👍

Great review Tarun as always. Thanks

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Sandeep 😊👍

Brilliant and succinct review Tarun

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Ajay 😉👍

Nice review, love your content. While I do not have a huge amount of experience in mixing and matching I am currently going Chord Qutest > Schiit Freya + > Denafrips Hyperion amp and am very very happy with the sound. DSD running through that chord sounds magical. At the end of that chain is Dynaudio Evoke 10’s.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing Josh 😊👍

Can’t click fast enough on your vids. Excellent Super elegant looking stack

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Doug. I appreciate your support 👍😊👍

Oh man, this is master class presentation, thank you very much, you are a gentleman indeed.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Tai Dee. Very kind and greatly appreciated 👍😊👍

A couple of years ago, I upgraded my trusty, long serving Rega Elicit integrated amp to the Kinki Studio preamp monoblocks combination. I had watched and read multiple reviews of the combo, all brimming with positivity. I expected the difference to be night and day. It wasn’t. Not even dusk and dawn. I was initially very impressed. Clarity, speed and detail were on the next level. But as the weeks went by and I accumulated more and more hours of attentive listening, I realised that something was lacking. The sonic picture lacked acoustic mass. Harmonic richness and bass weight. It sounded, well, disjointed, staccato! As a reference point, I plumbed my trusty old Rega back into my rig. Musical nirvana was restored. I removed my Rega, reinstalled the Kinki monoblocks but, instead of the Kinki preamp I used my Audiolab CDQ. The combination just worked. Much more to my listening preference. Richer tonality, fuller acoustic mass and a tight but weighty bass. I conveyed my experiences to Alvin at Vinshine. He explained to me that what I was hearing with the Kinki combo was in fact the ‘Kinki sound signature’. He advised that if I was looking for a fuller, richer sound, I should try the Denafrips Hestia preamp with the Kinki monoblocks. He said that it was a combination that had excellent synergy and he felt it would better suit my listening preference. He very kindly sent me a Hestia. He was right. It worked, beautifully. The fullness, richness and bass authority of the Hestia with the speed, clarity and bruit horsepower of the Kinki monoblocks. I now enjoy a deep and wide soundstage. A rich harmonic multi layered tonality, a smooth, flowing, legato musical reproduction with enough headroom to accommodate a full orchestra and no loss of tonality at low listening volumes. But, of course the journey doesn’t end there. I am now looking to upgrade my DAC to the Denafrips Venus 2. My Denafrips Hestia is obviously the entry level preamp in the Denafrips catalogue. I’m thinking that perhaps in order to fully appreciate the qualities and virtues of the Venus, I should consider upgrading the Hestia to the hades. Your review has given me cause for deeper consideration. You did ask for peoples experiences with preamp/power amp combinations, well that’s mine. That old Rega of mine is not plumbed in. But is still sat proudly in my rack. If someone has been a loyal and dependable friend for almost 30 years, you don’t abandon them when new friends come to stay!

@davezaitlin6062

2 жыл бұрын

I bought a Venus 2 DAC late last year, and it is an exceptional piece of audio equipment. I have it feeding modern Dynaco MkIII tube amps and the sound and resolution are unparalleled.

@howardskeivys4184

2 жыл бұрын

@@davezaitlin6062 yes, I’m not questioning my decision to upgrade to the Venus 2. Just thinking harder about the Hades!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Very interesting Howard. Great to read about your experiences. The Hades and Hestia are similar designs. According to Denafrips, the main differences between the two are: - Beefed up with an 80VA O-Core transformer - Improved low noise linear power supply - Precision matched through-hole resistors

@cindyfretwell6641

2 жыл бұрын

@@howardskeivys4184 Howard I have the Hestia and the Thallo and the bass is very satisfactory after breaking in , it continues to evolve. I wonder if Tarun tried the phase button on his Pontus dac that can have an effect on the bass.

@howardskeivys4184

2 жыл бұрын

@@cindyfretwell6641 thanks for your comment Cindy. Really nice to hear from a female with similar interests. Yeh, I find the Hestia suits my listening preferences quite well. I’m only thinking of upgrading because I’m about to upgrade my DAC to the Denafrips Venus. Enjoy the music!

🤗 THANKS TARUN …FOR YOUR INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE REVIEW AND ALL YOUR HARD WORK 😓😍😍😍

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you my friend 😊👍

I have this setup. I paired them with the KLH Model 5's. These larger speakers really work well, they provide really tight bass throughout and stunning mid and high tones. I think this system needs a larger, efficient speaker to really make it shine.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing your experiences Simon 😊

Hi Tarun, Another excellent and well balanced review: some really interesting high quality equipment seems to be coming from Denerfrips. After many years with Linn and Naim gear, I decided to start all over again, going down the ‘mix and match’ route. I kept my old LP12 turntable , but then added ATC SCM40a active speakers with an Ayre KX-5 Twenty preamp, and a Meitner MA3 dac/streamer , with an Innuos Zenith mk3 acting as a player-ripper- hard disk. At the end of the day though, I think the room environment is such a massive element in terms of results in SQ.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Roger. Much appreciated. That is a fabulous system that you have put together 😊👍

Another outstanding review my friend. At first, based on looks and design (fully balanced) I thought, 'Great just what I am looking for'. Honest appraisal of shortcomings though were very appreciated. Maybe not exactly what I am looking for

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy. I appreciate your support 😊👍

Thorough and interesting, thanks Tarun.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Keith 😊👍

My mixing and matching experience. Audiolab 6000A Play used as a pre-amp, paired with two IOTAVX PA3’s - used as small mono blocks. Sounds amazing!!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Cool 😎 thank you for sharing 😊👍

@ericmann1781

2 жыл бұрын

Nice combo, never thought of that one. I paired my SA3 as a pre-amp with a Rotel RB-1582 MkII that I found used for $1200 cad, it dramatically improved the bass response on the Elac UBR62 which are known to be lacking and already sound excellent just using the SA3 + PA3 together (with an external dac of course, the built in Wolfson dac seems muffled compared to the AKM 4493 in the Monolith 788). This combo sounds great with Aria 906, less bass but more clarity with the UBR62's and perfection with the Triangle Comete. I can't wait to find the matching Rotel pre-amp to see how it sounds, or even an Atoll pre-amp.

Now that you have left the door open for old guys with opinions to offer one up, I'll indulge myself. I remember the days when mass market audio was emerging from receivers to separates because they were touted to perform better, offered better construction and flexibility etc, etc. I have owned my share of separates most of the time using a preamp and amplifiers from different manufacturers and they produced wonderful sound in the day. Lately, I have seen the growth of the integrated amplifier as a truly fine piece of audio gear and I have to say I am on board. These days having multiple pieces of equipment, playing with different interconnects to adjust the sound, dealing with a snake's nest of power cords just seems too fussy and troublesome. With the advent of high quality integrated amplifiers, separates hardly seem necessary save for those who really like playing with mix and match to squeeze out the last bit of performance..maybe.. Perfection for me is an integrated tube amplifier or even better a solid state amplifier with a tube preamp stage. I am currently beguiled by a Unico Primo integrated with a solitary 12ax7 in the preamp stage. The way the Primo is designed, changing tube has a noticeable effect on the sound, so for those who can't keep their hands off the gear, tube rolling is always a possibility. This amp combined with some Dynaco Special 40 speakers has ripped me off the audio merry go round like I was tied to a tree.

@fletchermunson6225

2 жыл бұрын

I'll add that my favorite thing now is to invite a friend over for an audition. I put on Tool's Chocolate Chip Trip and wait for the inevitable head turn and the expression that says "What is going on?"

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy 😊👍

So glad you are looking at a Denafrips stack, I have the Ares II and really love the sound and quality it exudes. I did ask Alvin about their CD player and he said " We stopped offering the Avatar CDT due to challenges in production." so it does not look very likely at this time. A Cd transport is my biggest need at the moment, but a dedicated preamp and amp from Denafrips would be a very nice upgrade over my Emotiva TA1, which I really do love, for the money it has a nice sound and combined with my new Ares II I am back to listening to music all the time.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Bret. Very interesting about the Avatar CDT 😊👍

@michaelwright1602

2 жыл бұрын

That Ares II is a real musical game changer, I could not believe what that DAC was able to do. I now listen to the music and not the gear or speakers.

Thank you for yet another informative and helpful review. I love your thoroughness and clarity of expression. Excellent. I use a mixed system including a Mark Levinson 380 preamp, Threshold T100 power amp, Wadia CD Digital Transport, Wadia 27ix DAC, and Klipsch Forte 2 speakers, all of which are connected with Kimber Kable PBJ interconnects and speaker cable. My friends tease me about my "legacy" system, but it does sound wonderful with a variety of music. Your point about mixing components struck home based on the experience I had when my Wadia 27ix died of extreme old age. Picking a replacement dac was challenging since the new one had to work in this system. For fun, I tried a Schiit Audio Modius, based on reviews and the fact that it had balanced outputs which could feed my ML preamp. No matter what I tried: different cables,, transports, power supplies and single-ended vs balanced, it sounded just awful. Bright, harsh, unlistenable. Based on your review and others like it, I bought a Denafrips Ares II. Stone cold, right out of the box, it sounded wonderful and has only gotten better. I love the harmonic richness it added to the system. It really showed the weaknesses of the much older Wadia. I tried the Schiit in a second system where it sounds great, handling audio coming out of my MacBook. So, you are absolutely right here with your comments about the challenge of matching components from different makers. With inappropriate matching, great gear can sound awful. Love your work. Thank you. Roger in Wisconsin

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Roger. A pleasure to learn about your experiences. The Wadia v27ix Vs Denafrips Ares II was very interesting 👍😊👍

excellent review my friend

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Karl 😊👍

This is why this channel is the best in my opinion.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you TT. Much appreciated 👍😊👍

Denafrips Hades & Thallo Amplifier Review,Great Review Thanks Tarun.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Atri 😊👍

Great review. Hopefully you can also include the sound demo. I know it means nothing to some, but I enjoy it.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I would be cool to do a sound clip. Unfortunately, the copyright issues would cause my video to be demonetised 😊👍

@klaymoon1

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 There are good copyright free music. I think easiest place to find those maybe KZread audio library.

Very useful in depth review once again 👏 very curious about their Apollo amp

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Michael 😊👍

@michaelmityok1001

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 i think Jay has the Apollo in for review. Btw he seems to disagree with you on this stack regarding bass impact and midrange character. His source is I believe the Terminator Plus so that might have something to do with the discrepancy. Too many variables, for example the room, to account for when trying to parse these differences of opinion. Fascinating hobby, no?

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@michaelmityok1001 I ran them in for about 100 hrs but people have reported them changing over a much longer time. They are currently set up in another room. Alvin has agreed to a long term test so I guess time will tell 😊

Very interesting Tarun, I've got a friend here in Melbourne Victoria who is the local dealer for Denafrips. He is bringing the Terminator + and Gaia ddc down next weekend for me to evaluate and listen to in my rig. He is using the preamp you featured in this video and has great things to say about it. (which course is to be expected lol) So very soon I'll be able to get acquainted with all of this stuff myself which I'm looking forward to. Great video mate, very promising comments from you. You've only peaked my interest further now. 🎧🙂👍

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Shame. That is great. Please let me know how it goes 😊👍

@shanestephenson8423

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 will do Tarun🙂

Thanks for an excellent review Tarun! I use a TAG McLaren PA10 pre-amp with a modified QUAD 405-2 power amp. The QUAD has been upgraded with more modern op amps and capacitors, etc. The resultant sound quality in my view is excellent. I am using them with a Rega DAC-R fed by a laptop via USB and a modified Technics SL-1200MK2 with Origin Live modified RB250. The speakers are late 90's vintage KEF Reference One floor standers. I have been using this setup for over 10 years and have been very happy with it but I have just started looking at options for upgrading.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you SD. I appreciate you sharing 😊👍

Thanks for the review. The Pathos Acoustics InPol Ear Preamplifier (NOS Valves/Tubes) with a Nad C 298 Power Amplifier works for me.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊👍

Good review. I own Hermes and Pontus II and love them. I'm adding Hades and a four year old Accuphase A70 which should arrive next week. I'll report back.

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Please let me know how you get on 😊

I've watched your channel so much, I know how to instantly recognize a Denafrips copper donut transformer. And I think of you as 'Mr. Denafrips.' I'm envious of your ability to talk about audio electronics with such authority and professionalism. It makes me stop doubting the relevance of pro-audio, and makes me want to buy all sorts of products that I never knew I needed before :P. (Probably manufactured by Denafrips.)

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Danny. I love Denafrips DACs. Not so sure about their amps 👍

Awesome review

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 👍😊👍

Having my first pre power amp back in the eighties, I used a quad 606 power amp and 34 pre with great results, also meridian pre power mono amp combo as well, aura monoblock power amps from bowers and wilkins were great used with a audio innervation pre, I. Had some good results mixing with the and matching components over the years, but in the latter years used integrated amplifier and cd player from the same manufacturer as well.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Paul 😊👍

Nice review, Tarun! I have an old, entry level, piecemeal system: 20 year old Sonus Faber Concerto Grand Pianos ( I love ‘em), Little Dot Mk III pre, and Electrocompaniet AW220 power amp, with entry level Van Den Hul and Cambridge Audio interconnects and Chord Odyssey IV speaker cables. I’m loving the subtle textures and refined leading edges the AW220 gives me compared to my previous integrated amp (Plinius 8150). And the Little Dot is airier than my first pre-amp, the passive Creek OBH12.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

That doesn’t sound like an entry level system to me. Thank you for sharing 😊👍

Great review. I would love to see a comparison of the Hades and Athena preamps

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Thank you. I appreciate your suggestion 😊

There's not many content creators who can just pull off the top and explain the components with knowledge and expertise! Absolutely love it 👍 I've been contemplating purchasing an external DAC, but my reluctance comes from the fact that I might actually be degrading the sound of my setup. I have that arcam avr20 hooked-up to the arcam pa410 4 channel power amp which are running my sonus Faber sonettos (front stage) and knowing the avr20 is using the ESS 9026 pro audiophile DAC I'm just wondering, if I was to purchase an external DAC... would I be doing the right thing 🤔

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy. Very kind of you to say. That is a very nice system that you have put together. It is a well balanced system that you have. I suspect you have taken it as far as most people can trying to integrate a home cinema with dedicated two channel listening. I am not sure an external Dac would be worthwhile as it will run through the preamp of the AVR. I would keep as is or look to add an external dac to a dedicated two channel amp with HT bypass 👍😊👍

Another advantage of a greater number of smaller capacitors, is lower ESR, since each cap is lower ESR *and* since they are all in parallel to sum up to a high value capacitance, the overall ESR is much lower; because it is literally a fraction of the ESR of an individual cap. As far as preamp / amp pairing - I only have experience with single-ended equipment. Also, I got lucky in that when I went from a receiver to separates, I bought possibly one of the best preamps - the Audible Illusions Modulus 2C; along with a wonderful (but with a few flaws) amplifier, the B&K ST-140. The Modulus is a tube design, that is staunchly in the camp of less-is-more. It uses no negative feedback, and has twin volume controls in lieu of a balance control. The power supply and capacitors and circuit design are all substantial and clean. I now have a Modulus 3A as well, which brings an outboard power supply and stepped attenuators, and better switching and more inputs. The circuit is improved as well; but the price new increased a *lot*. I recently had to replace the B&K ST-140. I first tried the Schiit Audio Vidar, and while it is completely competent, and had far better bass extension and control than the ST-140; it lacks the spacious and layered soundstage and extended and clear highs that give the ST-140 its appeal. As I mentioned on another of your videos, Tarun, I have settled on the *very* modestly priced AkitikA GT-102 Z4 amplifier. It is another evolutionary design (like the Modulus), and it starts with the Dynaco ST-120. Which if you didn't know, is the first solid state amp from a legendary tube amp company. Long story short - the AkitikA GT-102 Z4 is the best combination of the ST-140 and the Vidar PLUS stunningly good bottom to top dynamics, and instrument separation and musical texture - the best amp I have ever heard. So maybe someday I will try a balanced setup? But the single-ended stuff I have is going to be hard to beat.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Great system Neil. Thank you for sharing. Always a joy to learn about your experiences 😊👍

@howardskeivys4184

2 жыл бұрын

Many ‘audio proffessi’ and reviewers rave about the virtues of a fully balanced topography, particularly the benefits of ‘common mode rejection’. But this is only truly effective if every component in front of the speakers, shares that same design. The implication is that a balanced circuit is superior to a single ended. That is not necessarily true. Single ended components can compete with and often out perform balanced components. A single ended circuit utilises less electronics, creating a shorter, purer, cleaner and mor minimalistic signal path, which, if done right will have less degradation of the signal. I use a fully balanced preamp driving single ended monoblocks. It works!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@howardskeivys4184 thank you Howard. I agree. It was nice to be able to test a fully balanced system from Dac to pre to power amp 😊

Again fun to listen to you"r greate review's

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy 😊👍

Another solid video 👏👏👏I have a Parasound P6 with PS Audio M700 mono block.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Paul 😊👍

I've not come across other reviewers discuss impedance or gain matching. If I have I don't recall, I watch lots of videos.

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

I can’t speak for other but it is a consideration when matching pre amps to power amps 😊

The true stars of this video are the ProAc Response 1SC’s!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

They are great speaker IMHO 😊👍

Well done just as usual - Bravo

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Mark 😊👍

@marklawrence4116

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 - pleasure is mine. You are a seriously trusted source here in the US Hope we can connect

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@marklawrence4116 please check out my Patreon. We do video meetings and I have more time to respond to comments there. www.patreon.com/abritishaudiophile

Great review as always. I too believe it is best to stick to the same brand pre/amp with the exception of tube power amps that i like to pair with passive preamplifiers. That been said the last years i prefer the simplicity of integrated amplifiers.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing Calaf 😊👍

i used to make amateur radio equipment, and know a lot about quality electronic design, as i Used to have a Collins 75S-3C receiver, which was the greatest tube radio receiver ever made, a legend. This is really good circuit design. Those giant toroidal transformers are a sign someone cares, as old fashioned transformers almost always buzz.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Edward 😊👍

My Pontus II, which his replacing an Ares2, is on order and should be here within a week or two. Really looking forward to the upgrade which will mate with Lumin Mini 2 streamer and a McIntosh MA5300 integrated amp. Also use the external DAC connected to my Cambridge Audio CD transport. Love your channel.

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Vincent. A little tip: don’t start series listening before you had run a signal through it for at least 100 hours. All those caps take a little time to settle in 😊👍

What a great review! Thank you so much for being so thorough and insightful. Very balanced as well (no pun intended! Okay...pun intended a little bit!)

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Raphael. Much appreciated 👍😊👍

Well, I finally found the time to get the Thallo, Hades, Ares II, Iris DDC and the KLH Model 5's all set up. This is the first time I have sat down and actually enjoyed listening to music in a very long time. The sound this system creates is simply incredible, many steps above the HT system, SVS Ultras, Denon X4400H AVR, Emotiva XPA amps, etc. Thisis a different plain. I do not even know how to describe the sound, buttery is the first thing that came to my mind, I love butter. The female vocals were incredible, strings, I could hear the musicians fingers on the strings. The bass, was very controlled, and there was a lot of it, good bass, room filling bass. Not boomy, but rather precise and fast. The highs, through the Ares II, that digital harshness is no longer there that I was getting from a variety of DACs I have used. They were crisp, they flowed, the sound was natural, not clinical. I believe the Hades preamp is the real star of this show, I can hear the difference in this fully balanced Class A preamp vs a solid state unit. The solid state is again, clinical, the Hades is again, natural sounding in a very enjoyable way. The Thallo, plenty of steam there, I drove her to the point of too loud for me, and she still had plenty of headroom. This amp has to be underrated, by a lot. It walks circles around my XPA2 and the XTZ Edge A2-400. And again, it just sounds "natural". It sounds real, it does not sound clinical in the least, this amp is on another level for the money I paid for this. When they say this compares to $5,000 to $10,000 amplifiers, I think they are correct. I have heard amps in the Thallo's price range, they are not even in the same ball park, they are out loitering in the parking lot. The dollar value here with this system is just incredible, at least to me. With the Denafrips system, the KLH speakers and the two SB3000 subs, this is a winner! The only upgrade I can see in my future is moving up to the Pontus II, when it is back in stock, I will probably pull the trigger. Oh, I went black with the Denafrips, and I am very happy with it, as it is gorgeous! I was going Silver, but after thinking about it, where it will be in my room, I am glad I went with the black. It is very sexy. ;-) Just too add... At low volume, the sound is there, the Thallo drives the Model 5's with authority at all volume levels. Which is something none of my other gear would do with these particular speakers.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing 😊

@rpete2733

2 жыл бұрын

I can't find the post, but didn't you have a Freya+ you were going to try with the Thallo? I have a Freya+ and I'm considering going with a Thallo. I have 88.5 db speakers which are not as efficient as the KLH.

@No_Limits_411

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing Michael, my trigger finger is itching on the matter 😅

@michaelwright1602

Жыл бұрын

@@No_Limits_411 Which pieces are you looking at?

@No_Limits_411

Жыл бұрын

​@@michaelwright1602 Thallo. I have Ares II, Topping pre90, and B&W 603.

I have never got the budget to experiment, with for me "expensive" gear like this, and Iw only got "bad" experience,es blending preamps and amps the few times Iw tried. My thaught is that the designer have got/done the best possible matching between the parts, and then it is of course a matter of taste and voicing of said designer. To be true, I really dont "get" separate parts, no eq, no loudness button, etc. I guess Im in my own HiFi heaven, with my NAD M10, with vast posibilitys to form the sound to my taste. The only thing I miss, or more "fantasise" about missing, are a high pass filter for the mainspeakers, like in the NAD M10 mk2. It would be nice to not waste energy below 50hz to my Triangles, or torture them with the same,, 😅. As usuall Tarun,, its a pure joy to listen to your eloquence, and a extra thanks for showing how the boxes looks on the inside. Stunning build quality with exellent parts from Denafrips. Cheers to you and the family,, 🍻🍻🥰👍‍‍👍‍‍

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Irene. Always a pleasure to learn about your experiences 👍😊👍

Fantastic review again. thanks. Any plans to review Kinki Studio amplifiers?

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Chandana. I hope to get to them in time 😊👍

Tarun, thank you for the solid review, I really enjoy your channel, you are top notch, and the accent is cool too... You exude authority... I say that seriously as I chuckle. My lorry driver sense of humor... ;-) Well my friend, I just sent Alvin at Vinshine Audio $4100 for a Thallo, Hades and Iris DDC to go with my incredible Ares II... I went all black, keep the color synergy going. I thought of upgrading to the Pontus II, but after listening to several comparison videos, I decided the addition of the Iris should get me pretty darn close to the Pontus II... And seeing as the Pontus is on backorder... I hope this ends this journey for a bit. Jay did a review on this Thallo and Hades combo, and he was using the KLH Model 5 speakers, which I own, and love. You were the final nail in the coffin so to say, and I pulled the trigger today... Just got back from the bank, did a wire transfer to Alvin at Vinshine Audio. Thank you for the work you do in this genre, it is greatly appreciated.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Michael. I appreciate you watching and your support. Please let me know how you get on 👍😊👍

Saw your podcast with Cheap Audio Man where you mention about reviewing these combo. Voila.. Here it is!! Great review! I was wondering whether Audiolab 6000A in combination with Pontus DAC would be a better choice over these Denafrips combo. Any suggestion please? Again thanks for your honest and great reviews Tarun! I really enjoy.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Aminul. Very kind of you to say. The 6000A is a great amp for the money but not in the same league as the Denafrips combo 👍😊👍

Hello Tatum, thank you for very informative video. I always use XLR (Balanced ) connection for all my components, and make sure any components I intended to purchase has XLR connection and also make sure they are truly balanced design. To my ears there is a lot of different between XLR connection and RCA connection. One need to have a very revealing system to appreciate the difference. Same applies to component matching, recently I purchased two components, a well reviewed 805 tube amplifier with balanced connection, but it did not integrate well with other of my components, same applies to a SACD player I purchased recently. But for majority did not have system mismatch problem, I have all top of crop products and I also have top tear Denafrips products as well as Audio Research Ref preamp but I have not run into many system synergy problem’s, I suppose it mainly to do with XLR interconnected usage. Looking forward for my PS Audio SACD transport to be delivered to be matched with Denafrips Terminator 2 via i2s connection, one reviewer commented it will be a match, that will get me closer to the master tap of recording.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Ganesh 😊👍

Hi Tarun - As one who prefers using tubed preamps with solid state power amps I'm well aware of the importance in impedance matching. I've certainly put a foot wrong once or twice. But when I've gotten it right the payoff is more than worth the effort. One must pay attention to specifications, manufacturer recommendations and (within reason) anecdotal experiences found on the internet. As with active speakers, using matching components designed to be used together takes away the risk. But as I listened to your assessment of the Denafrips products sound qualities I didn't feel any urge to visit the Denafrips website to learn more. I know how the Pontus II sounds. I owned one for about two months before selling it. Your description of the new products gave me the sense that there was a similarity in sound to the DAC. That's to be expected. For someone who likes that sound that's a good thing. Brilliant work on your part, as always.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Gary 😊👍

@adamcfada5071

2 жыл бұрын

Hi. What preamp/power amp combination did you finally decide on?

@garyalexander5686

2 жыл бұрын

@@adamcfada5071 Cary Audio SLP-05 preamp, First Watt M2x power amp, built by myself from plans made available from Nelson Pass.

I'll join the chorus and say - grrat stuff again, Tarun. And thank you for reviewing interesting products that don't get reviewed the hell out of on YT. Regarding your question at the end: my power amp for a long time now has been Quad 909. First I used it with Quad 99 preamp. It was a very good combination. Later, I've changed my preamp to EAR 864 and that preamp with 909 sounds much better than Quad's own 99 preamp. Much more natural sound, much better texture, nuance and dimensional properties of sound.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Zvonimir. Much appreciated 😊👍

Well done!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Gil 😊👍

Love that you show what's inside, also I wonder why audio companies name their products after mythological figures, probably just cause

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Zack 😊👍

Great review and well explained where the design shines and where the shortcomings are. In my setup with Terminator + and Athena pre amplifier I value the synergy and detail. I also found the amp improving over time. How long did you have it in place? In previous setups I always used the same brand for pre and power amplifier- remember McLaren? This was followed by Musical Fidelity.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Wouter. I has been here for a couple of months but running in over the past 4 weeks or so 👍😊👍

@wouterkolkman

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Tarun! In my setup it took quite a few weeks before the sound really ‘clicked’ with the Athena:-)

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@wouterkolkman it may be a candidate for long term listening and a revisit in say 6 months. Let’s see what the distributor says 😊

@wouterkolkman

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 That would be very interesting indeed!

Hi Tarun, great review of some products that are on my radar. Small point, those Elnas and particularly those Wima MKPs do take a good long time to run in and one area of improvement over time is the bass. I’d be interested to know what happens if you can run them regularly for a few months. On the mixing and matching, I was using a NAD 314 in my study recently. As usual, I’d been right through it replacing caps and resistors with much higher quality components. I even put R-C snubbers on the bridge rectifiers to reduce switching noise. Now this sounded beautifully sweet, however, I’ve always fancied a pre-power combo so I started looking for something suitable as, like all NAD amps, you can take a feed out of the preamp. Just before Christmas I found a Quad 306 going for a reasonable price with some issues. Bought it, upgraded again, but this time added Burson Audio discreet opamps, new higher spec transistors and Panasonic FC smoothing caps. On running it from the NAD, I immediately noticed a matching issue. The Quad Pre-amps have a very low output, around a third of line level. I consulted Google and found a site offering upgrades and discovered a simple hack to change a couple of capacitors on the input stage from 9R1 to either 18R or 27R depending how much you wish to adjust the sensitivity. I opted for the latter to great effect. Having installed the Quad in between the NAD pre-amp and the speakers I was extremely pleased with the results. Finally the twist in the tail. Enter a dedicated Musical Fidelity E200 on eBay. I have plans for the usual surgery, however, it dropped straight into my study system to and showed what the speakers can really do. Anyhoo, mixing and matching, so far, so good. Good luck, Mark

@wouterkolkman

2 жыл бұрын

I have the Athena pre amplifier - clearly improved over time:-)

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, if I was able to hang on to them for some time, it might make for an interesting update video but not sure if that is possible. Great to learn about your experiences upgrading and tweaking 😊👍

i've been super curious about moving to separates...but equally mortified at the possibility of an accidental bad pairing. Why break up a brand, I know. But there are so many new/cool power amps out there. Nonetheless, I kept thinking - and as it was mentioned n a previous comment - how well the Schiit Freya + might pair with the Thallo...being that the Freya would accommodate the balanced input. I believe it even offers different gain possibilities having passive, gained, and then tube-gained settings (not sure if that's entirely correct what i said there). In fact, I just keep wondering how it would pair just about every time someone brings up an interesting power amp. Maybe I should just get one and dive into that rabbit hole once and for all... Again another wonderful, super informative and "fully balanced" review!

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you John. Much appreciated. The Freya+ does have different levels of gain in it’s modes of operation. Whorls be cool t9 try with the Thallo 👍😊👍

@michaelwright1602

2 жыл бұрын

I own the original Freya, Freya S, Gungnir DAC, the Ares II DAC along with the Hades and Thallo... I have the Freya boxed up and liked the sound on my last system. I should break it out and pair it up with the Thallo just to see if there is a noticeable difference... Personally, what the Hades and the Thallo combination bring to the table when paired with the KLH Model 5's is incredible. This pairing with the Ares II, soon to be upgraded to a Pontus II, gives me that tube analog sound I have been searching for, something the Freya almost accomplished, but I never paired it with the Ares II, only the Schiit Gungnir and lesser chip DACs. The Ares II was the true game changer. Honestly, in the beginning, the Freya was very nice, but not in the same league to my ear as the Hades. I have the week off, I will try to break out the Freya and give it a spin on the Thallo, and the Freya S too.

@riccitone

2 жыл бұрын

@@michaelwright1602 Awesome…I’d be very curious about your findings! 👍🏼

@riccitone

2 жыл бұрын

@@michaelwright1602 not to belabor the discussion 🙏🏼 But I just recently purchased a GoldNote PA -10. Running my Creek integrated as a pre, and wow…what a beautiful difference. Now on the fence between a newer Freya S, Freya + or maybe holding out for a Hades. Also good things said about the Musician Monoceros. Or a used Ayre. Decisions! But need to see if my local shop will let me try both tube and SS.

Nice review Tarun, I have the Pontus II, Hades/ Thallo combination as my system since mid January. My speakers are the Definitive Technology mythos STS’s. I really amenjoying the combination and what it does. In regards to the couple of things that you found objectionable, I wouldn’t say that they are negative’s as much as trait’s of the-unity gain configuration of the Hade’s Back in the 90’s, as digital took over, several companies came out with “ passive pre-amps” , switching and some type of volume control. Either a quality pot, or a stepped attenuators, but no active electronics. They found a small market, but as a whole, people had a hard time getting use to the volume being turned way up and they didn’t have the same kind of slam they were used to. It isn’t exactly the same thing with the Hades but similar. Unlike the passive units years ago, the active circuit in the Hades is just more laid back I guess then many higher gain pre-amp circuits have. I did hook the Hades to a pair of 2A3 single ended mono amps I have. The result was musical but underwhelming. This was do to the low gain of the mono amps. They need nearly 2 volts to reach rated output of 4 watts. And without gain, and the relatively low output of the Pontus II, the volume of the Hades was almost wide open to active a listing level of the 75-85 fb. Just no space for headroom. I have a Conrad-Johnson tube amp and pre-amp that I will do some comparison with, it should be fun.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Very interesting Mark. Thank you for sharing 😊👍

@michaelwright1602

2 жыл бұрын

I have the same setup with the Ares II, Iris DDC, Hades and Thallo, and will be upgrading to the Pontus II here soon. Not that there is anything wrong with the Ares... Speakers are the KLH Model 5's... I also have two SVS SB3000 subs tucked away in adjoining rooms, kitty corner, the sound to say the least is immersive. This gain issue with this pairing, I thought would be an issue, but after owning this system for a bit, it is a non issue, at least in my room. Even at low to mid volume this Denafrips system is just incredibly enjoyable to listen to and handles everything extremely well at even low volumes. I find the sound smooth and very analog, it handles the midrange like a champ, the voicing is incredibly good along with a nice tonal range in the highs, nothing harsh, sterile or clinical with the sound here, which is what I have been searching for... I can now listen to the music, not the speakers.

@markmorrow3250

2 жыл бұрын

@@michaelwright1602 isn’t it nice how this stack does such a nice job of getting out of the way, so the music is the focus. I don’t finding myself thinking about the bass or trouble, but rather, wow that voice is beautiful or what a wonderful sounding guitar. And the experience is the same weather I am listening to a digital or analog source. I do have a good turntable and cartridge running into a Parasound JC3 jr. Phono section. I have no doubt that I could find a stack of components that would perform better, but at what cost.

Another excellent review Tarun. However I was a little surprised. I have the Thallo and previously the Hyperion power amp driven by the Hestia pre-amp. I also have the Denafrips Avatar CDT and at one time the aries 2. It appears from my experience that they take longer than normal to break in possibly due to their preference of using many capacitors. I am now using the Musician Pegasus dac and Arendal 1723 monitor speakers and have plenty of bass and slam. Thank you.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Cindy. A few owners have mentioned that the products take a very long time to run in. Unfortunately, as a reviewer, there is a limit to how much running in time I have available. I did have them running for a month before I started critical listening but these amps have enough merit to revisit after a long-term run in, if that is a possibility 😊👍

@2HatHudders

Жыл бұрын

Hi Cindy, I’m looking at the Hyperion as it fits my budget. Would you recommend this amp.? Does it have bass and drive?

Great stuff as always Tarun, been waiting on this one since xmas. As you ask, mixing and matching seems to be my path, but it is a nightmare. I alternate ATC19s and Maggie 1.7is, both quite insensitive around the 85db mark. To drive them I have a pair of Simaudio Moon 400m monoblocks. Trouble area for me is finding a preamp between these and my balanced Denafrips dac. I've tried Vincent and Simaudios own matching 350p. The monos are high gain at 36db! The 350p with just 6db of own gain still just left such an unusable tiny range of volume control when in the chain. The Vincent too, but even less. Therefore I've been waiting and eyeing this Hades with unity gain and balanced option. But mate, you've killed me with your classic "Make of that what you will" line :D Any thoughts about my possibilities or indeed if the Hades or even the Athena might be options? Cheers from Sweden

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Ivan. It could be that the Hades may work really well in your system. On paper it seem well suited to the task. As you know, the proof is always in the pudding. I could only share experiences of how it worked in my system 😊👍

@sidvicious3129

2 жыл бұрын

Ivan, I too own the Simaudio Moon 400m after owning an Audio Research DS450 and Vt100 mkIII before that from Audio Research. The gain is insane, but it cured a serious problem for me. I pretty much have an all Audio Research system and with my phono stage the Ph8, which I love, it only has 58db of gain total, which is horrible for MM and too low for some Moving Coil Cartridges. I switched my Audio Reseach ls17se to a Ls27, which gave me a gain boost between the ability of low, med and high gain for each input, which can be set from the remote control. This lest me with more gain, but still not enough. Well my Ds450, one of its channels blew out one of my Vandersteen Quatros. This provided both an opportunity and a curse. What do I get while not having anything to listen to. My dealer told me about the Simaudio m400 and he let me take them home for a listen. He told me that even though they are class A/B, leave them on for a week before fully evaluating them. I did this and the amps provided better bass, mids and really treble than my prior amp and I did the trade. I replaced the Vandersteens with Kef R3 and believe it or not used an SVS SB4000 and I had all of the bass, treble and mids I could ask for. It took me three weeks to get the sub to blend the way I wanted it to. I usually leave the preamp at low to mid gain depending on the music and I have all the drive I want from vinyl and I turn the gain down to low for CDs and low to med for streaming from my Dac. It took me 5-7 years and going to a variety of different sources including Bobs Devices for a Step Up Transformer, only to have Bob tell me that my gain was too high for moving magnet and his transformers would overload my input on my phono stage even at the low setting. Vinyl for me now is as loud as a CD player without the noise, which is the strength of the PH8. Even Audio Research or my dealer could really help me, but adding up the gain numbers is a start. Loud gain is entirely too loud for me and I couldn’t reach three quarter gain! So there is no free lunch, only compromises that you can live with. So Ivan it is possible, but it can be time consuming and costly to get the resolution that you seek to combat the gain on the Simaudios. For me it was a blessing and for you it sounds like a curse. I tried the 350p and it was too limited with inputs and the Ls27 to me just sounded better. Good luck Ivan and great review Toruń. Toruń is right Ivan, he can only tell you how to get there from his prospective of what he has heard or used in his space. You are going to have to do some trial and error testing and I would say pick online places with good return policies or pick dealers that you have built up a relationship with. I have been with my dealer for over 12 years, it I sometimes will use places like Music Direct when I want to try things that my dealer doesn’t have. Just as a final example, Turan seems to like Hegel, my dealer hates it and he won’t carry it and I have never heard it.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@sidvicious3129 thank you Sid. Much appreciated 😊👍

Very interesting review. The Denafrips pair looks A LOT like my Schiit Audio Freya pre and Vidar amplifier. I'm using them with a Schiit Gungnir Multibit DAC. The pricing is also comparable.

@fletchermunson6225

2 жыл бұрын

I have a similar setup except a single Aegir. Love tubes on the front end of anything audio.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Richard 😊👍

Omg I had this idea last week

Hi Tarun. I have a combination consisting of an Exposure pre and a Sugden power amp. The pre is the Exposure 3010s2 and the power amp is the Sugden A21AP. For me, this works superbly, although the limited power of the Class A Sugden is an issue with my speakers, as at 25 watts, it falls well below Revel’s 50-200 watts recommendation for their F206. Listening the the half speed mastering of Supertramp’s Crime Of The Century (A&M Audiophile Series, not the MOFI pressing) is quite simply staggering. So a mismatch that works superbly.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Peter 😊👍

Great video taren, My second system is a Audiolab m dac pre/dac and myryad power amp 150 watts per channel on a pair of triangle bro 2. It sounds quiet good but not enough gain it feels like a 50watt per channel. Pisses me off.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Stephen. Mixing and matching can be tricky 😊👍

Great, balanced review of a balanced set up. I had the Quad 99 pre-power set up, but after the integrated 2510 I’m not sure there is a benefit of separates in every case. I think Manuel (in the comments) has had similar experience.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Jeremy. At the sub £2 or even £3k price, separates are not necessarily better than integrated amps 😊👍

Great review as always. Wonder if something as simple as adding an eq to the signal chain would work? Of course it would need to be a balanced eq - not sure how common those are.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Joshua. You could use some DSP further up the signal chain 😊👍

Matching an ATC Preamp to the Quad 606 Mk 2 produces an amazing sound.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Cool 😎

Very interesting review. I wonder how these compare to Kinki Audio offerings

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I hope to find out 😊👍

Nice review - would be really interested to hear your views on the Athena pre-amp. Alvin in saying the Athena is quite a big upgrade over the Hades. I'm wondering about the Hermes, Pontus II, and Athena set.

@toddt5562

2 жыл бұрын

I am running the Hermes into my pontus 2 with the Athena and the Apollo amp. It's an absolutely awesome combination and I have no deficiencies like Tarun described. Using teckton double impact speakers which are much higher efficiency than what he was using and much larger.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Ed. I appreciate the suggestion 😊👍

I use a Mogami unbalanced to balanced interconnect between my Cary SP-98P pre (single-ended) and my Parasound A-23 fully balanced power amp. It made a huge difference when I swapped i the Mogami over the prior Monster Interlink II I was using (all RCA). Unfortunately for me, I don't know if it was the result of using the Mogami over the Monster or switching from the unbalanced to balanced connections on my power amp. Oh well. Anyway, you might want to try picking up an unbalanced to balanced cable to try using your Exposure pre with the Denafrips power amp. Just a thought. Wonderful review, as always.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you James. That would be worth a try 😊👍

Great review, I have been looking for a dual balanced XLR input preamp. The Hades, its little sister? the Hestia, the Topping Pre90 with Ext90 for the extra XLR inputs, Gustard P26 have all come up as potential candidates. I am currently using a RME ADI 2 FS Dac (AK4493) with a Benchmark AHB-2. The ADI 2 has a pre and a parametric equaliser that really makes it quite a useful piece of equipment. However unless upgraded to the Pro it has no additional analog XLR input for my phono stage. I think the combo sounds good. Accurate and neutral are my impressions. There isn't much warmth as far as I can tell. My speakers are some 4312 JBL monitors and a M&K sub. Again I think these may add more clinical type sound but I have a pair of Vandersteen's that I hope will be okay to drive and bring a bit more body and range to my setup.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing VG 😊

I run an Eastern Electrics Minimax Pre into a pair of vintage Musical Fidelity MA50 mono blocks, and then into a set of Martin Logan Spires. I have to say I like the slightly forward presentation of the power amps, but I probably need to audition newer amps to answer some questions. They, along with the Spires built in D class amps are the only part of my playback system that don’t contain valves

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Graham 😊👍

Matched components is the way to go it’s probably the best sounding i cant say much about it coz i dont have such system but as a designer i will certainly design it to match with every component that will come out of my creative juices

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing 😊

I have gone past mixing and matching because I have made too many mistakes (which cost) over the years. Now I stick with one brand that I enjoy because of the audio synergy (audio and electronically) and easier to audition at home to accept or reject. I have been buying and listening to hifi products since just before my first hifi purchase of the Audiolab 8000a in 1983, so I think I have learned my lessons along the way.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Caroline 😊👍

Very nice review and interesting that these amplifiers are so good in some aspect but have some flaws in other. I think mixing and matching is not bad per say but it brings the risk of loosing synergy. But a very good pre-amp will lift up a power amp and should not bring it down.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Hugo. I agree, a good perhaps will enhance what you get from the power amp 😊👍

Great detailed review, as always. I was wondering if a DAC upgrade makes more sense than a streamer upgrade. I own a Linn Majik DMS/3 Streamer Amp connected to a pair of FyneAudio 502 floor standing speakers, but was asking myself what makes more sense in terms of better audio: make an upgrade for a better DAC (like the Denafrips Ares 2 or Pontus 2, and bypass the Linn DAC), or get the Atom to upgrade from the LInn Majik? Thanks in advance for your reply. Gilberto

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you. What about a speaker upgrade? 😊

@michaelwright1602

2 жыл бұрын

I bought the KLH Model 5 speakers awhile ago, the real game changer was the addition of the Ares II DAC. I have a number of DACs, including the Schiit Gungnir. These DACs all sounded the same to me, sterile and clinical. The Ares II was the game changer, even folks that heard my system, not knowing I changed anything, all commented on how much better everything sounds. That is all I needed to hear... I then added the Denafrips Hades and Thallo amps, along with the Iris DDC. Pontus II is going to be my next purchase and then I believe I am done. DACs do matter along with speakers, the Model 5's are not going anywhere, as everyone that has heard them in my system wants a pair. No more bookshelf speakers for me, these old school cabinets rule.

Thanks! The systems in the family are all the same brand where possible but a 4K Panasonic ub9000 player, an Invidia TV, and 77Sony A80J means the fight is on for control of the Marantz 8015. That is my only detractor but it is a big one as some nights I have to turn it off 3 times as everybody wants a report in the down time.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Lonnie 😊👍

Awesome vid like usual !! Still waiting for a good Monitor Audio gold review :P

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you buddy. Unfortunately , they didn’t respond to my messages 😊👍

@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

2 жыл бұрын

@@abritishaudiophile7314 no worries. :)

@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

2 жыл бұрын

Just a shame that those denafrips dacs are that expensive

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

@@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii that is true 😊

I've no previous experience with matching preamps with power amps but my current system does everything I want... I've got the IOTAVX SA3 (previously run in integrated mode) feeding a class D power amp, the Audiophonics MPA-S250NC RCA (which uses the Hypex Ncore NC252MP module). My speakers are KEF LS50 Meta with an ELAC SUB 10.2 subwoofer. Volume setting on the SA3 is pretty much the same as it was in integrated mode but bass authority is much, much better through the Hypex Ncore amp and I'd say that instrument separation is rather better too.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Howard 😊👍

Hello Tarun. Due to your thorough reviews I bought the Pontus 2 and Hermes in black. Now I'm planning to buy the Hades anyway. The eye wants something too . I have 2 mono amplifiers from Tentlabs with Hypex, of course fully balanced. With 2 high-efficiency Audio Physics and 2 REL subs, gain and headroom should be fine, right? Thanks,Jakob ( Netherlands)

@abritishaudiophile7314

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Jakob. I hope you are having with them 😊

Just a note. Willow Tree Audio are the exclusive suppliers and dealers in the UK AND offer full support for Denafrips products. Home auditions can be arranged through them as well. (I have no association with Willow Tree Audio).

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Well said. I have previously dealt with Ian at Willow Tree Audio 😊

Interesting review Tarun.... I'm interested in this combination as a long term replacement for the Musical Fidelity X-150v3 integrated driving my Magnepan LRS. Since you only used mini monitors, could the mid bass issues be centered around the LF rolloff limitations of the speakers? (I also run an LS50 system;-) Hope Alvin lets you keep the amps a while to run in & test with other speakers and cables! Greetings from a Brit audiophile in Mt USA 🎶🤫🎶

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

I did have a Rel sub connected as well and the diminished mid bass weight was not noticeable with the other amps I used for comparison. It would be interesting to see if they improve after long term run in 😊

Excellent review! Inside and out 👍 and very precise breakdown of the sound characteristics.👍 And price.👍 What more could someone ask from a reviewer? Maybe someone will correct me or add to the list, but I thoroughly enjoyed this review . Being able to watch you from Northern Michigan, USA is pretty cool too. 😉 If I was in the market for a new piece of equipment in this price range, I would so very much appreciate your review of it even more. Ok. Thanks

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Jon. That is very kind. Getting feedback like that makes this so worthwhile 👍😊👍

OK- As instructed: I have a DK Design (The LSA Group) Signature amp which has had its capacitors and other internal components upgraded by a hi-fi engineer, the tubes have been 'rolled" -I'm currently using Telefunken. I paired this with an Esoteric X-5 CD player and Hyperion 938 speakers which have had their internal components upgraded (by the same bloke!); Lastly a Velodyne 8 sub-woofer which can be cranked up for rock music. The system is linked with Chord Signature speaker cable and Audioquest and Tellurium power chords. I mostly listen to jazz, prog. rock (it's an age thing!) and World Music. I think the strength of the system is the clarity and soundstage however the mid-range is quite light. (The room is 25" by 18") I did try the Franco Serblin Ktema speakers which sounded terrible in the bass and lost the soundstage; Naim CD which was thin and reedy; Cyrus 8 CD which was muddy; Proac speakers which were pleasing in the mid-range...but I think the compromise I have now is the best I can achieve without spending silly money. Pleased to hear your suggestions or feedback...

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

That is a very high end system you have put together. If the synergy works, I am not surprised that you are very satisfied with the results. Thank you for sharing 😊👍

My system is mix and match and I really enjoy it. Denafrips DAC, Schiit pre and tone control, Emotiva amp and Wharfedale speakers. There's no all-in-one component, or same brand system I could figure out that will give me a better sound.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing Barry 😊👍

I haven't had a lot of experience with preamp/amp matching. So far, I've only matched an Aubdiolab 6000A with an XTZ Edge A2-300, and that seems to have been okay. But soon I'll be having to match the power amp with a rather esoteric, fully balanced Acoustic Invader preamp that has RCA outputs as well as balanced ones. Never thought there might be a problem with matching, so you've made me worried. Thanks ;-) I'll be able to use the balanced outputs from the DAC to the preamp, but will have to use unbalanced connectors from the preamp to the power amp since that's all the XTZ has. No idea how that will work out -- will have to suck it and see. Worst case, I'll need to flog the XTZ and get a balanced power amp instead.

@abritishaudiophile7314

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing John. A balanced power amp would be a worthwhile next update 😊👍