AK4499 DACs

[lmitche]

While not AKM4499 Dacs, I have had the $499 Topping D70 (AKM4497), $1150 RME ADI-2 (AKM4493) and the $199 Schiit Modius (AKM4493) all here in the past year.

 

Using the balanced outputs, the Topping and the RME DACs sounded lifeless and were returned or re-sold in the first few days of ownership. The RME DAC was especially disappointing as so many here give it great reviews.

 

The Modius is anything but lifeless, it has great top end, mids and upper bass, with a wide and deep sound stage.  However it lacked texture in mid and lower bass. While not one note bass, bass detail that was definitely missing. However for $199 the Modius SQ is a fantastic DAC and beats the Chinese AKM DACs hands down.

 

The Modius DAC was powered by two Uptone Audio LPS1.2s one on the rear DC input and the other on the USB VBUS line. I only listened to the Modius balanced outputs. The stock SMPS was never used.

[lmitche]

7 hours ago, OldBigEars said:

I had high hopes for my Topping D90, based on the many positive reviews it has received.  Tried hard to love it and configured it various different ways, including the highly recommended DSD 256.  USB, Coax - played with all the settings etc. The sound detail was impressive - especially using DSD mode - but the music sounded soul-less.  I never found it enjoyable listening for long periods and sent it back after 30 days.  Replaced it with a Qutest and it was instant joy.

All the AKM DACs auditioned here sound lifeless as well, except for the Schitt Modius, which tried but just couldn't get the bass right.

 

I agree the Qutest sounds good. In that price range it would be fun to hear the latest Yggy as well.