Really enjoy the content you've been producing. Great job building out your channel!

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Joe! Glad you're enjoying it. I've got some extra stuff planned for 2023. Hope you like that too

Great review! I really appreciate you go in great details describing how this scales to the composer. Your consistency throughout your reviews makes me feel I can almost hear this DAC just from watching this video.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you feel that way! Thanks for letting me know 🙂🙂

@Charles12509

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound If you can work it in your videos, can you spend some time with hooking up the cables on these DACs..even actually hooking them up. The backend can be confusing for some of us new people to the streaming..

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Hi Chuck, I don't want to extend the length of every video, but I am working on a course that might be helpful.

@Charles12509

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound …..thanks a lot….

This was a great review.....I have purchased a Asgard 3 on one of your previous reviews, curious if this is a big jump up in performance? Keep up the good work. Thanks

Hopefully you can get your hands on an Eversolo DMP-A6 soon as I would be interested in your thoughts and comparison with the Z8.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I've asked for a review unit and they said they'll send one out as soon as another becomes available.

I've had an audiolab M-DAC for over 10 years, if it ever breaks beyond repair this looks like a decent ESS based replacement to keep similar I/O and functions. I like that you have the option of a remote or using your phone via an app so you can change tracks/pause as it looks like the remote lacks that function. I'd like to see the different VU meters in action, the meter on the M-DAC is really nice, a -40 to 0 dB left to right stereo meter with peak markers which float for a few seconds then scale back down the meter until pushed back up.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Did I not show the 3 different VU meters in this one? I thought I did, but if not, check out my Soncoz SGD-1 and Eversolo DAC-Z6 review

I appreciate your detailed reviews. The Meze Elite is a very high end headphone. Do you feel you would have noticed the sound differences between the DACs using the Sundara or Arya Stealth headphones from Hifiman or the Liric or 109 Pro headphones from Meze?

@peytonsnead3114

Жыл бұрын

... a central dilemma for DAC shopping, there's a rule of diminishing returns. How much is it worth for that next level? What's the right pairing?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

It's always a bit tricky and will vary from one headphone to the next, but I'm always a proponent for balancing the cost of your various audio products fairly evenly so putting a mid-tier headphone with mid-tier DAC and amp. If you pair one high-end piece with other budget or mid-tier pieces, you're limiting the performance of your high-end gear so it's false economy.

Love your insight on all the equipment you review. I only need single ended and was considering this. Would you say the J2S with upgraded op amp (rca only) with the 4499ex chip set ($508) and Archel 3 Pro ($449) be the better over all choice? (extra $250) I would like to use as a preamp as well short term unless it does what I need hooked up to my power amp.

@PassionforSound

2 ай бұрын

Yes, the J2S with upgraded op-amp will out-perform the Z8 IMO if you don't need the fancy interface, etc. The A3 Pro will be a great preamp and headphone amp for you too.

Another very excellent review! I was wondering if the two outputs can be used simultaneously? I would like to run the balanced outs into my Xduoo MT604 and then the RCA's to my home stereo. Often times I like to blend in just a touch of the home stereo while listening to headphones. Really sounds nice to me that way and fuller. So just wondering if that is possible with the Z8? Thanks!

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked the review. That's absolutely possible. From memory, you can switch outputs on/off in the menu, but you can also have them both running simultaneously.

@RUMBLEGO1

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound Thank you!

Nice review. Thank you. What about EverSolo DMP-A6?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I've reached out to EverSolo and hope I can arrange a demo unit! 🤞

Great video. Would you take the EverSolo DAC-Z8 over the Aune S8 reference DAC?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I haven't tried the S8 so I can't say - sorry

I'd be curious to see a head to head with the Eversolo DAC-Z8 and the Geshelli JNOG2 SOCKETED [J2S] with the AK4499 and Sparkos OpAmps

@PassionforSound

5 ай бұрын

I can already tell you that the full spec J2S is the easy winner on sound quality. (EverSolo runs away with it on interface, of course)

Looking forward to seeing reviews of the new S.M.S.L. D400 EX and D400 ES which have a similar design to the DAC-Z8 but albeit are a touch more expensive with an expanded feature set and hopefully better sound quality.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I'm working on getting at least one of those in... 🤞🤞

Hi. I have an Onkyo TX-RZ50. I am Planning to add a cd player. I saw this Eversolo Z8 you reviewed. I am wondering if I need a DAC to pair with the cd player. Thanks

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

The Onkyo receiver has a DAC, but I don't know how good it is to compared to the Onkyo. Some CD players are transports only and need a DAC. Others have a DAC included. (You can tell if it has a DAC because it will have stereo RCA outputs. Otherwise, it will have just digital outputs like coaxial and optical)

How does this compare to the Bluesound Node 2i for use as a streamer into a more expensive DAC? Is it worth moving on from the Node 2i? I'm presently using the DCS Bartok as my DAC. Or would it have little effect on performance?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

The DAC-Z8 isn't a streamer, just a DAC. I think you're confusing it with the DMP-A6 from EverSolo that I haven't got yet

What do you think about the new A70/D70 stack? I think the A70 would be a nice amp, but I am unsure with which DAC to pair it with. Planning to find a DAC/AMP combo for my utopia, as my current A30 Pro/D30 Pro stack is a little lacking in transient response.

@PassionforSound

11 ай бұрын

I've got the A70 Pro and D70 Pro here now and first impressions are very good. I can't compare to the 30-stack and I haven't done critical listening or comparisons yet, but I like what I've seen and heard so far

@slsmaster274

11 ай бұрын

@@PassionforSound Would you rather pick an Eversolo Z8 or an D70 based upon your early impressions? I have decided on the A70 but can’t decide which DAC to choose….

@PassionforSound

11 ай бұрын

I think I'd take the DAC-Z8, but that might change once I compare them.

Hello, thank you for you work. Let me pls aks you. thinking about this DAC with Focal Clear MG. Do you think is better to buy head amp or buil-in is ok for Clear ? Thanks you

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I think this would be a nice starting point with the Clear MG, but they will definitely benefit from an external amp if you can upgrade that too at some point. The headphone output from the DAC-Z8 is good quality despite the low power output so there's no issue starting there.

@hoposlav

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound Niice , thanks

I would like to know if the A8 sounds better than RME dac or Cambridge Audio CNX ... thanks

@PassionforSound

7 ай бұрын

Answered over on the A8 comment thread. 🙂

I am guessing the DAC output between the Z6 and the DMP-A6 streamer would be same?

@PassionforSound

8 ай бұрын

I haven't compared them directly, but the A6 should be pretty comparable to the Z6 based on the Z8 comparison.

Hey, do you think the Z8 has enough power for a Focal Elear and if not what amp would you pair with it? I've had the Singxer SA-1 recommended.

@PassionforSound

4 ай бұрын

The Z8 is probably ok with the Elear, however, if you're wanting maximum performance, a separate amp is a good idea. The SA-1 is excellent, but the Geshelli A3 Pro is even better IMO: bit.ly/GLA3Pro

@stephenbeaumont-adam7702

4 ай бұрын

@@PassionforSound thanks :)

Hi loving you reviews, I have the Meze 109 pro headphones I like all genres of music especially deep house do you think the eversolo z8 or Fiio k9 pro would be the best match thanks

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Barry. We've already addressed this elsewhere so I'll just say happy listening! 🙂

@barryrichardson7968

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your excellent response earlier

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure, Barry!

Hope you have a geshelli J2 akm on the way and can get a modi multibit 2 when released.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I definitely have a J2 AKM. Not sure about Modi MB 2 yet

@djradman6794

11 ай бұрын

Would you say the Z8 is better than the geshelli j2?

@PassionforSound

11 ай бұрын

I think so, but I've got the socketed J2 coming from Geshelli soon. I've only previously heard the ESS J2 so my opinion might change with the latest J2

Fogive me if i sound like a novice but can this DAC be used with the Eversolo DMP-A6 Master Edition or does the A6 Master already have a proper internal DAC?

@PassionforSound

7 ай бұрын

The DMP-A6 has an internal DAC, but you can also use external DACs if you have one of higher quality.

@leewinter28

7 ай бұрын

@@PassionforSound Thanks for the reply. I have a device called the Amari by Antelope Audio and I think it can be integrated with the Eversolo Master Edition.

@PassionforSound

7 ай бұрын

Yes, that would definitely work

Hi would you say the Z8 is a better dac than the geshelli j2 Akm?

@PassionforSound

11 ай бұрын

I haven't yet tried the AKM J2, but have the socketed version coming soon so I'll let you know

How would you compare the dynamics and bass slam between these and a Bifrost 2/64?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I've not found DACs to influence bass slam. The best I can explain is that the Z8 has a more forward overall sound because all details are kind of pushed to the front due to the flatter soundstage. The Bifrost 2/64 is slightly less forward so some will perceive it as having different dynamics, but that will also depend on your definition because the Bifrost 2/64 will do a better job of differentiating quieter and louder sounds in the mix IMO while the Z8 will sound overall more energetic which some might perceive as more dynamic. I hope that helps.

@serg2963

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound It sure does. Thank you for the reply... and the fantastic reviews!

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure. Glad I can help

I have a EverSolo Z8 DAC and I am pretty happy with it. It is connected to a Hegel H95 running KEF LS50 Metas with KEF KC62 Sub. I am wondering if I got a Bifrost 2 would that make a big difference on this system or subtle difference ? and what would be the difference? More airiness or bigger soundstage?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

The difference would be subtle. Probably a little less airiness and sense of detail, but you'd get more depth and 3-dimensionality in return.

Hi great video as always. Would you say Z8 is better than SMSL SU-10?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I haven't tried the SU-10 so can't say. Sorry!

How does the Z8 stack up compared to the RME ADI-2 DAC FS?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I've never tried them side-by-side, but I didn't much enjoy the ADI-2 whilst I really like the DAC-Z8. The ADI-2 has amazing features, but the sound is a bit too aggressive for my tastes.

How it looks when You compare Eversolo DAC-Z8 with Chord Qutest?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

The Qutest is clearly superior. I love the Z8, but it's still using the basic filters from the ESS chips which will never match the custom WTA filters from Chord.

How does it compare with SMSL SU 9 Pro or topping D90

@PassionforSound

2 ай бұрын

I think it's definitely in the same ballpark. I've got the D90 III here now so might compare them in that review.

So let’s say you run your main speakers off xlr can you run a active subwoofer using rca out?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I can't see why not. You can have both outputs running simultaneously so the only challenge is ensuring you can adjust the volume of your sub and speakers to get the levels right (the volume output from the DAC-Z8 will be the same for both)

@waldoyew4247

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound does the volume have a fixed option to pair a separate preamp?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I don't think so (I'm not in front of it right now). From memory, you have to set the output to 0dB with the volume control. It's a fully digital and lossless volume control though so it's not a problem - just set to 0dB and leave it there.

@waldoyew4247

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound on the z8 then the preamp I pair with it will manage it’s volume accordingly?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Yes, you could skip the preamp and use the Z8 or you could max volume on the Z8 and use your dedicated preamp

How does the z8 compare to the a6's internal dac? Are there audible differences?

@PassionforSound

Ай бұрын

I can't recall if I've directly compared them, but from using both extensively, I'd say they are on similar levels. Close comparison might reveal an edge for the Z8 as it's a dedicated device (DAC only), but I haven't felt the A6 to be lacking for general usage.

@danypel

Ай бұрын

@@PassionforSound thanks very much!!

Good presentation. Why didn't you open it to show the interior floors, screens, components, it would have been a complete presentation!

@PassionforSound

8 ай бұрын

I rarely open devices because it doesn't tell much of a story and there are plenty of photos on the website for those wanting to see the internal layout. Glad you liked it otherwise.

How is the Dac section in Z8 vs SMSL M500 mk3 ?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

The M500 Mk3 is pretty close to the DAC-Z6 so the Z8 is comfortably better in terms of resolution/detail retrieval, sound separation, etc.

The Z8 vs new Bifrost 64 ?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I'd choose Bifrost 2/64 because of the depth and layering it provides. Some will prefer the more forward detail (at the expense of a flat soundstage) that the Z-8 produces. Both excellent DACs!

Where do i get that shirt??? 😁

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Haha. That's from Threadheads 😁

This looks like it was made in the same factory as all SMSL dacs

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

No, not at all. The build quality, design and interface are way better than SMSL DACs. Not that SMSL DACs are badly built, but the EverSolo is excellent.

@0-60STYLE

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound the marketing material on their website is identical to that of SMSL and Topping. I'm not very convinced.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I think you'll find that's the style of most Chinese brands - they all tend to copy the same approach. Check out xDuoo - they look similar too, but are definitely a different company

Against the FPGA's?

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

You mean like Chord? It's going to remain a "no contest" unless AKM, ESS, etc. improve their filters or a manufacturer makes their own (which is possible for ESS chips)

@aRc11-11

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound I have the diminutive Mojo 2, it trounces anything five hundred and under (US). I have several of the cheaper. Topping, Geshelli etc. It's not really close (IMO).

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

That's how I feel too 🙂

No one compared it to the known "king" of the Z8's price tier, the Schiit Bifrost. It makes no sense that no comparison was made with Bifrost 2/64.

@PassionforSound

10 ай бұрын

The Bifrost 2/64 is a very different DAC and I can say without even comparing it exactly what I would have heard which is that the Bifrost 2 would create depth and layering that the Delta Sigma chip in the DAC-Z8 is unable to provide. The flatness of soundstage from the Delta Sigma chip will result in a sense of greater detail in the sound from the Z8 because everything is pushed forwards, but the Bifrost 2 will still deliver that same detail, just more layered in the stage

Is this the new DCS Vivaldi killer😲

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Haha. Not sure about that, but it's very good

@goodsound4756

Жыл бұрын

Keep on dreaming…

I am not a fan of dacs with op amps. They tend to lower dynamics on bigger speaker systems you can miss with smaller headphones on your ears but when you play them in larger systems you are like oh wow this is flat.

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I find that on headphones too, but not so much in dynamics as that depends on the op-amp (I'm assuming we're referring to integrated op-amps?). The biggest impact of integrated op-amps to me is the staging is flat and 2-dimensional

@pennfootball71

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound yes I was meaning the Texas Instruments ones not the nicer ones from Burson

If its flat too you, it must be really flat for me, thanks!

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

Glad I could help 🙂

1st Yay

z8 blows away any chord dac and at a fraction of their price

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

In what ways?

No Bluetooth is hi res. Get your facts right boyo! None.

@PassionforSound

7 ай бұрын

It's a relative statement. LDAC and aptX HD are higher res than SBC and AAC

So i ended up on this channel thinking that i'll find a pertinent comparison between the Z6 and Z8. Instead, what i found was a highly subjective review, with zero technological measurements. You talk snake oil (more open, more airy, more bla bla bla) but with zero evidence. What is more airy? More sibilant? Emphasis on the highs? Have you done blind tests between the devices? If so, would you be able to tell which is which? I'm a bit salty because i've auditioned the two and found zero differences between them (blind A/B) but here i am, watching someone try to justify the higher asking price by throwing subjectivity all over the place.

@filipviljamaasvensson

Жыл бұрын

What were the other gear used? And if you listened on speakers, was the room treated? To simply say there is no audible difference between the two because you didn't hear it (which appears to be what you are saying) doesn't make Passion for Sound a snake oil salesman.

@JogBird

11 ай бұрын

you just described 99% of audiophile reviews

Hello, please, what are the three best DACs in the $500 range for a system with speakers and an integrated amplifier. Thank you

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I don't have my database handy to check, but take a look at the "Passion for Sound recommends" link in the video description and then filter by product type: DAC to see all my recommended DACs sorted by price 🙂

Anyone compared the Z8 to the Hifiman EF600 (or 500)?

@PassionforSound

3 ай бұрын

I haven't compared directly, but I can tell you that they're very different sounding. The EF600 is smoother and more mellow sounding (especially in NOS mode) and with better soundstage depth. The Z8 will deliver a bit more detail and resolution.

The problem with this brand even the factory don’t sell them

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I don't understand what you're saying

@hoygising1

Жыл бұрын

@@PassionforSound I check the website u can’t buy them and there’s no price

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

I did a quick search the other day for "buy Eversolo DAC-Z8" and multiple retailers came up. I'd suggest that same search and then find a retailer that suits your location

@hoygising1

Жыл бұрын

Hi thanks for the reply , I’m actually looking for the A6 streamer

@PassionforSound

Жыл бұрын

That's brand new so might not have reached retailers yet

Is this device better than topping d70 pro octo/sabre? Im looking for a decent dac for my system: Wiim pro plus->dac?->nad356bee->focal aria 926

@PassionforSound

2 ай бұрын

That's a tough question. I'd personally take the Z8 over the D70 Pro Sabre, but I'd probably take the D70 Pro OCTO over the Z8.