Audio Note DAC Owners- please share your thoughts

[Designsfx]

Hello to All-

Although I’ve been reading this forum for years I’m new to posting here. I’ve read most of the archived posts regarding Audio Note DAC’s but would like to hear more in a summarized thread.

For the last few years I’ve been wondering about AN DAC’s as I rarely hear about there being any downside to them (other than the entry fee) and have also noticed that they are fairly scarce on the used market.

I’m currently using a Aqua La Scala Optologic MKII and while I enjoy it very much I am always wondering “how good is an AN dac and would it be worth purchasing?”

If you happen to own one of these mystical pieces of technology would you mind helping me understand more about their qualities? Like-

1) I’ve heard they are remarkable when it comes to Redbook playback- flawlessly true to the source

2) I’ve heard them described as warm, some say like syrup and others say neutral.

3) Looking under the hood (pictures) seems straight forward- like old school yet it still seems to compete with the latest designs

4) If you’ve owned one and sold it what did you move to, why and did you regret it?

5) Some folks have decided to pass on the higher ticket price and have bought the AN Kit instead. Are these even a close facsimile of the original?

I am very fascinated with this product as it seems to hold a high place in audio gear history- it’s reputation makes it almost one of those things that you shouldn’t have to ask about but I’d like to know a little more before making the spend. Any help on this would be appreciated!

Designsfx

[Norton]

Probably not what you really meant, but I’ve owned entry level AN DACs of yesteryear ( a DAC Zero and DAC One) .  They had quite a nice midrange but nothing special overall.  
 

I get the impression that the higher end AN DACs are really all about the tube output stage, rather than anything notable  regarding the DA conversion.

 

But given  the expense involved, don’t listen to forum opinions (including mine), ask a dealer for  a home dem and A/B against  your Aqua.

[Designsfx]

Thank you Norton-

Your impressions are helpful and much appreciated. These units are hard to find for in home demo and from what I’m hearing (from others as well) this may not be a large improvement from what I’m already using. Thank you again!

Designsfx

[the_bat]

As a very happy AN DAC owner I can only echo what Norton says - you really need to work out roughly where in the range your budget would take you and find one to listen to.

[Designsfx]

@the_bat-

Thanks for response- I’ve been looking at the 3.1x MKII balanced or possibly a 4.1 balanced if found for the right price. Finding one for a demo is taking some time but I’m being patient.  Hopefully it would fit well within my system which is comprised of Audio Research amp/pre and Dynaudio speakers.