http://www.diyaudio.com/forums/vendors- ... ost4208386
Pour rappel, un buffalo III c'est un es9018 qui coute quand même plus cher que le dam1021 !I've done a quick A-B test of the dam1021 versus my Buffalo III DAC.
The playback chain was as such:
1) Laptop (i7, 16GB RAM, SSD, etc) running Windows 8.1 with Foobar, ASIO out to Amanero, I2S to dam1021, single ended output to AD797-based SE preamp
2) Squeezebox Touch with EDO firmware connected to Amanero, I2S output to B III w/ IVY III I/V stage (all powered by Salas BiB power supplies), single ended output to AD797-based SE preamp
The preamp was connected to my Hypex 400HG amp through single ended connections. My speakers are the Arcos II speakers.
The levels were matched by ear (I had to lower the Buffalo's output by 2dbs).
The music used was classic rock as well as some pop.
The end result was favorable for the dam1021. It had better dynamics, more detail, and perhaps a little better control of the bass. All in all, I couldn't say that the Buffalo was better in any respect.
Next step will be to compare the DACs using the balanced outputs directly on to my Hypex amp. There the Buffalo will have an advantage due to its true balanced design, so it will be an interesting comparison.