Yggdrasil+ Announced

[The Computer Audiophile]

From @schiit

 

”Hey all,

 
In 2014, we introduced the original Yggdrasil, our first True Multibit DAC, at $2,299.
 
Today, we introduce Yggdrasil+, with a sleek new chassis, remote control, and NOS mode, as well as a much more modular platform for easy future upgrades, at $2,299...
 
…wait a sec, hold on…yes, that is correct…the Yggdrasil+ Less is More is the same price as the original Yggdrasil from 2014, despite years of inflation, despite the additional features, despite the new streamlined chassis…oh yeah and owners can upgrade starting at $499…oh yeah and the upgrade reactivates warranty…
 
And that’s why everyone thinks we’re insane. We’ll stop talking now, and let you guys take it from here.
 
Yggdrasil+ product page: https://www.schiit.com/products/yggdrasil-18”

[The Computer Audiophile]

9 minutes ago, PeterG said:

I applaud the continuous improvement approach the upgrade path.  But if I am reading correctly, a person with a Yggy today should not expect improved sonics, only added features, with the upgrade.  Right?

I believe the NOS mode could deliver improved sonics for some people.

[The Computer Audiophile]

1 hour ago, musicjunkie917 said:

With the input rate limited to 24/192 the NOS mode has limited value. 

I'm not so sure the input rate on USB is that limited. Schiit retained the 8x sample rate indicator on the display for a reason.

 

I will find out.

[The Computer Audiophile]

Just now, musicjunkie917 said:

The web site says:

 

Input Capability: up to 24/192 for all inputs

 

Maybe that is a mistake....

I have an email into Jason.

[The Computer Audiophile]

I will say this new chassis design is waaaaaaaaay better than the previous Yggdrasils. Takign them apart to replace anything was a nightmare. The Yggy+ looks like a breeze.

[The Computer Audiophile]

Jason says it's still limited to 4x on the input right now.

[The Computer Audiophile]

47 minutes ago, Miska said:

 

...wish the NOS mode would allow higher input rates than 192k... Would be great at 705.6/768k or higher.

 

I agree.

[The Computer Audiophile]

45 minutes ago, 57gold said:

Still no volume control from the guys who "invented" DACs with volume controls.  

Too funny. 
 

I’d love a volume control on Yggy. 

[The Computer Audiophile]

11 minutes ago, AudioDoctor said:

Can I ask a stupid question... Why would you guys want a volume control on a Yggy?

To get rid if a preamp. 

[The Computer Audiophile]

1 minute ago, PeterG said:

Understood that this would be a matter of taste for some people.  But I'm going to bet that the guys at Schiit are better than me at making these choices, so the probability is low I that I would find NOS an improvement.  I wish they would have focused on improving sound for all, as they did with the Yggy 2 years ago.

In a way, that’s like saying the guys at Schiit are better at picking which dinner entree is best. There’s no such thing with filters. It’s all personal preference. 

[The Computer Audiophile]

48 minutes ago, PeterG said:

A lot of personal preference, but one of us has a much better understanding upfront.

 

Only you understand what you like. Do you like apples or oranges better? Should the chef decide which you like better? 

[The Computer Audiophile]

5 minutes ago, matthias said:

BTW, does someone know why the Bifrost offers much better specs than Yggdrasil LIM with the same DAC chips?

 

BIFROST

Balanced or SE Output:

• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20KHz, +/-0.02dB

• THD+N: <0.0008%

• IMD: <0.0006%, CCIF

• S/N: > 124dB, referenced to full output

• Crosstalk: -132dB, 20-20kHz

 

YGGDRASIL+ LIM

Frequency Response, Analog Stage: 20Hz-20Khz, +/-0.1dB, 0.5Hz-200KHz, -1dB
Maximum Output: 4.0V RMS (balanced), 2.0V RMS (single-ended)
THD: Less than 0.002%, 20Hz-20KHz, at full output
IMD: <0.002%, CCIF, at full output
SNR: > 110dB, referenced to 4V RMS
D/A Conversion IC: Texas Instruments DAC8812 x 4 (2 per channel, dual hardware balanced configuration)
Analog Stage: Integrated, using LME49724 differential stage 

 

Matt

I reached out to Schiit.

[The Computer Audiophile]

I received a reply from Jason. In essence, he said there are differences because they are different DACs with different output stages and if you really want measurements, with value, look at the Modi+

 

 

[The Computer Audiophile]

I'd say that measurements aren't a goal in and of themselves for Schiit. DAC chips are one small but important piece of the overall design and sound. 

 

After the blind listening test at Schiit's store, I will never care much about measurements again. The best measuring Yggdrasil sounded the worst. 

[The Computer Audiophile]

14 minutes ago, jcbenten said:

due to the pressure they inflicted on Schitt.

I can assure everyone that isn't the case.