Musician Draco R2R DAC

Same settings as above, but 2kHz signal (linear frequency scale)


The above is OK. We see the harmonics of the 2kHz signal ad. inf. with the two beat frequencies of 46kHz and 50kHz (2k from the 48k sampling rate). This actually is not that bad for an NOS DAC.

Now let's take a look at the problem spots seen in the sweeps in the prior post. Let's pick 3.5kHz. and 6kHz

3.5kHz


6kHz


6kHz doesn't look as bad, however, I realized the THD was high because it's a multiple of 48kHz sampling and IMD products at 42kHz and 54kHz.

The Draco Musician DAC does seem to suffer from IMD related signals to the sampling frequency. From a relative point of review, compare to Sonnet Pasithea, which doesn't have this odd behavior at all: https://www.superbestaudiofriends.o...iew-and-measurements.12382/page-2#post-385171

Now whether these measurements matter is subject to debate. One thing for sure, Do utlrasonics matter? Read here: https://www.superbestaudiofriends.o...marv-pyrate-edition-11001b.13730/#post-414731

 

Musician Draco
SE outputs NOS SPDIF in
THD (no N) vs Frequency (at four different output levels)
90kHz bandwidth

Note: stepping fewer points than the posts above (so some specific frequencies may not be "activated")


FOR APPLE-APPLES COMPARISON, ANOTHER NOS DAC:

Sonnet Pasithea
Balanced Output, Coaxial SPDIF In
THD (no N) vs Frequency (at four different output levels)
90kHz bandwidth

 

In a nutshell:

Don't bother with OS mode because something sounds wrong with the digital filter, both from a headstage and tonal perspective. Only use NOS. The SE outputs sound muddy. It's possible this could be the result of excess DC at 8mV which is on the dangerously high side for a source. Keep in mind that 8mV may be multiplied through an amp that has gain. The balanced outputs are fine and don't have this excess DC. The balanced outputs also sound a lot clearer, the mud is reduced to just the lowest registers (instead of also affecting the mids), however the this makes its inherent harshness or stridency in the highs more evident.

For the SBAF crowd this harshness may be on the cusp on being annoying, but this may depend upon downstream gear (amp and headphones). The 1kHz 16-bit waveform at low levels is spectacular - perfect looking steps. IMD "spray" related the sampling frequency may be problematic at specific frequencies from 3kHz to 6kHz. However most of harmonics are technically outside the range of hearing. Whether this will make a difference is subjective listening is up for debate. Finally, the Musician Draco is on the boring sounding side, a bit insipid. The price is great. I really want to like, but I can't in good conscious recommend it. I can see the manufacturer aiming for something like the Metrum Ameythst, another good value NOS DAC from only a few years ago, but I think Musician missed the mark.