Light Harmonic Geek DAC

[m.i.c.k.e.y]

Them, its in their FB page:

 

 

• Sergio Correa Gavin, did you guys finalize the chip Dac decision yet? Between the ESS mobile or Ti PCM 1795?
  Like · Reply ·
  Geek by LH Labs We decided on the ESS 9018M.
  

Like · 3

[barrows]

Yes, I have heard that as well... Although I have not seen confirmation yet from LH. In any case, I suspect the GEEK will run the ESS with synchronous clocking (which essentially disables the ASRC and DPLL), and perhaps even with the first 8x OSF turned off. If so, it will be a relatively unique implementation of a Sabre DAC chip...

[labjr]

I wish they would have their own forum. Facebook is difficult to follow a thread. Messages disappear etc. I looked on their FB page earlier and couldn't find anything.

 

I think Wavelength runs the ESS DAC synchronously. Not sure about the OSF though.

[barrows]

Yes, Wavelength Audio and Ayre run the ESS Sabre DAC in synchronous mode. Ayre turns off the 8x OSF as well, and instead runs their own 16x oversampling filter. I do not know what Wavelength does with the OSF.

A number of DIY folks also run the ESS in synchronous mode... I sure prefer it this way, but one does need to take care that the I2S source and masterclock(s) are very low jitter when running synchronously, as the DAC itself will not be reducing the incoming jitter.

[labjr]

I'm curious about the differences between ESS9018 reference version and the 2 channel mobile version? Also, I think Ayre uses the 9016 and so does Mytek? Are the differences between the 9016 and 9018 features or is there an audible difference?

[junker]

I'm curious about the differences between ESS9018 reference version and the 2 channel mobile version

 

ESS Products - DAC

[labjr]

I've read all that. Unfortunately, their web site isn't gonna tell you if they sound different.

[AudioDoctor]

interesting.......

 

Sort of a backwards Schiit........

 

Oh my... HAHAHA

[barrows]

I'm curious about the differences between ESS9018 reference version and the 2 channel mobile version? Also, I think Ayre uses the 9016 and so does Mytek? Are the differences between the 9016 and 9018 features or is there an audible difference?

 

Some differences:

 

9018 ref, 8 channel DAC, in stereo config (4 DACs per channel): DNR: 133, THD: -120

 

9018M, 2 channel only, DNR: 127, THD: -120

 

9016, 2 channel only, DNR: 128, THD: -110

 

The 9018 ref is considerably more expensive, the 9018M I would guess requires less power to run as the 9018 ref is a bit of a power hog and would not be acceptable for mobile use because of that. The 9018 ref also requires some really heroic power supplies to get it to perform its best.

I do not know if the feature sets are different amongst these, but Google each part and will will be able to get any info you might like. They all feature the "Hyperstream" modulator. I suspect in near perfect implementations the differences might be audible... Noise/THD are cumulative in systems as well, so there are probably advantages of using the best part for the best systems.

[m.i.c.k.e.y]

Some other updates:

 

Larry Ho about 12 hours ago

 

Hi, all

Here is the key details of circuit upgrade.

1) Change the DAC chip to ES9018M.

2) Change to one of the smallest/greatest relays to switch in/out the 3D awesomifier.

3) Relocate IV conversion resistors for even better noise performance

4) Enlarge the capacitance for 5V USB input, result: Even crazier and solid base there

5) Enhance and optimize the DAC IC power supplies. (analog and digital route separated)

Enjoy!

Larry

The new Geek setup taken from video update #19:

 

 

[junker]

Wow! Thanks for the update Larry. It's great to see your development process play out - the care you are taking will definitely pay off. Can't wait... Will you post some updates on the AR test results in the new configuration vs. the old TI implementation?

 

I've had this question going on in my mind for a while Larry if you could comment:

 

For someone who wants to run the Geek into a home stereo - let's say a Pass INT30 Class A integrated amplifier - what is the best model to get? I'd think you'd want no digital volume attenuation and maybe a 2V output so I'm thinking the standard model would be the best choice. Is there any reason to go with the Super or Super Duper for a home stereo? What do you guys use into your Pass gear?

[labjr]

The regular Geek has a 2 volt output at full volume.

[ansedor]

. Is there any reason to go with the Super or Super Duper for a home stereo? What do you guys use into your Pass gear?

I went with the principle "the more, the better" so I ordered The SuperDuper. I intend to use it both at my office connected to a PC and connected to a Android device. I may buy a real high end head phone later. But I don't have, yet. So maybe I am thinking wrong here? Apart from money (no big deal, since it is spent on electronics :-) ) is there a disadvantage to the SuperDuper? Too much power or something like that. The imponator effect is not to be dismissed lightly.

[Selarom]

I would think it would drain the batteries of your android device faster!

[junker]

Yes, but some DACs such as they Mytek run it a bit more than 2V.

 

Not sure if the Super Geek would be better to run into Pass. That is how Light Harmonic is testing them, so I was hoping to confirm what they are using.

 

what is the best model to get? I'd think you'd want no digital volume attenuation and maybe a 2V output so I'm thinking the standard model would be the best choice. Is there any reason to go with the Super or Super Duper for a home stereo

 

The regular Geek has a 2 volt output at full volume.

[labjr]

Yes, but some DACs such as they Mytek run it a bit more than 2V.

 

Not sure if the Super Geek would be better to run into Pass. That is how Light Harmonic is testing them, so I was hoping to confirm what they are using.

 

I'm building a First Watt F5 that needs more than 2V input for good volume on some speakers. Not sure how well a regular Geek will work. I will only use headphones on occasion.

[wkhanna]

interesting.......

 

Sort of a backwards Schiit........

 

Oh my... HAHAHA

 

No disrespect intended, just being a smart arse. I am glad to see two powerhouses of design offering affordable products.

[DomieMic65]

does it need driver for macs??

[Jud]

No driver needed for OS X.

[Savage]

They have also started a campaign for a desk-top version that has stereo out and a separate power-in that could be used with LPS or battery.

 

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/geek-pulse-a-digital-audio-awesomifier-for-your-desktop/x/4273304

[lithium1085]

I was disappointed that the desktop version is not balanced in design....hopefully that will change

 

They have also started a campaign for a desk-top version that has stereo out and a separate power-in that could be used with LPS or battery.

 

Geek Pulse: A Digital Audio Awesomifier for Your Desktop | Indiegogo

[silverarrows]

The icing on the cake would be if this would work with Chromebooks. Some DACs like those from FiiO work by just plugging it in. My understanding is the Geek Out will work with computers that have native support for USB 2.0, but I don't know how that relates to Chrome OS. I don't really want a Windows laptop and a Macbook Air would be overkill for my needs.

[Larry Ho]

I was disappointed that the desktop version is not balanced in design....hopefully that will change

 

I will try to include balance design (maybe) in a different configuration. I like balance design as well.

 

Only one issue for me: Where to find the space in front panel for the balance connectors... any good idea? ;-)

[Selarom]

I will try to include balance design (maybe) in a different configuration. I like balance design as well.

 

Only one issue for me: Where to find the space in front panel for the balance connectors... any good idea? ;-)

 

Hello,

 

You mean on a different configuration of the same GEEK PULSE? or a different product altogether?

[Panelhead]

I will try to include balance design (maybe) in a different configuration. I like balance design as well.

 

Only one issue for me: Where to find the space in front panel for the balance connectors... any good idea? ;-)

 

Larry,

I like balanced outputs also. The connector issue can be addressed with many smaller connectors than XLR. The mini-XLR used in the Streamer, 3 pin locking DIN used by Naim and DMN, and the 1/4" TRS used by most pro equipment all are much smaller footprint.

One sweet advantage of TRS is if a TR plug is used it becomes a single ended output. A buffer resistor in the negative leg limits the current from the output devices.