The All Purpose Advice Thread

Discussion in 'Advice Threads' started by purr1n, Sep 26, 2015.

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  1. kirayamato

    kirayamato Friend

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    have that same combo right now burning in the Yggdrasil A2 will let you know
     
  2. Gemini

    Gemini Facebook Friend

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    Thanks, looking forward to your impressions.
     
  3. dudlew

    dudlew New

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    I am having issues with my Modi 2 Uber and USB. Sometimes it connects, sometimes it doesnt. It doesnt drop out once its connected, but if I power off or my PC freezes and I require a restart, there is no guarantee that the modi will reconnect. Sometimes I would be listening to the onboard audio then that goes silent because the modi connects after hours or even days at a time with it plugged in.

    I have reseated the cable in both the modi and the PC and also powered off numerous times only to have to play the waiting game and hope that it connects.

    With this in mind, do you think getting the Eitr would make sense? In this way I would be running coaxial into the Modi Uber? Or should I consider a different DAC for the time being?

    The PC is an Asus Zenbook if that matters.

    Any suggestions or advice would be well appreciated.
     
  4. lm4der

    lm4der A very good sport - Friend

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    I believe that this happens when the USB source isn't quite "hot" enough. I had a similar issue connecting my Surface Pro to the Jotenheim's built in DAC module. What cures it 100% of the time, is using a powered USB hub or a Wyrd. Eiter would probably do the trick too.
     
  5. dudlew

    dudlew New

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    I have a powered hub. does the fact that its a USB 3.0 hub create an issue? I just plugged it in and it says windows does not recognize the device. This is the second time. I am assuming this is because its a USB 3.0 hub or the fact that the port on Modi may be defective. I was trying to reinstall the drivers, and when I plug in the Modi when they request it, the software cant find the device either on the hub or on a straight port. This is why i was considering using the Eitr to bypass the USB on the Modi all together. I would love to get a Modi Multibit, but am a touch afraid that I might end up with the same or a similar issue.
     
  6. Dr J

    Dr J Friend

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    Have you disabled USB power saving from Device manager (assuming a Windows OS)?

    Trying other USB ports might help also.

    There are hints on USB at schiit.com, worth checking.
     
  7. dudlew

    dudlew New

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    No help. Same issues. So I am on the waiting game for when it does finally connect. I have tried it at the PC at work. a few months ago and it did not work. tried different cables and ports. I am feeling that it might be the device itself and not a software issue.

    I cant see any other reason for the behaviour.
     
  8. n2n

    n2n New

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    Hi All,

    Posted this in an old unfollowed thread. Reposting it here. Hope this is the right place. :)

    Had a hard time deciding between Bifrost Multibit vs Modi Multibit+Eitr. Finally leaning towards pulling the trigger on Modi Multibit+Eitr. I just want to bounce my thoughts with you folks.

    Initially, i was fixed with Bifrost Multibit since it has a better power supply and supposedly better build with 5 years warranty. And well the upgradability, which, for me, is nice to have but no way a deal changer. Also I learned reading the reviews that its a bit warm sounding which is a plus for me as my current setup is a touch on the other side and I was hoping to balance it out with some bit of warmth (also i like my sound a tad warm).

    Then I dug a little deep in the reviews to understand purely sonic differences. Here's a summary of my findings (based on reviews):

    1. Modi Multibit's in more cohesive than Bifrost Multibit. [Link]
    2. Modi Multibit's headstage is slightly narrower than the Bifrost Multibit.
    3. Modi Multibit's mids are a bit smoothed out while Bifrost Multibit's vocal retains more micro-dynamics but a tad harsher in comparison.
    4. Modi Multibit's highs are a bit rolled-off. Probably Bifrost Multibit's slightly pronounced highs (than Modi Multibit) give a sense of better resolution.
    5. As a result of last two points, with poor recordings, Modi Multibit tends to do a comparatively better job keeping things listenable i.e. less fatiguing. [Link for 2,3,4,5]​

    I understand these sonic differences are very very subtle and hard to notice except in critical listening session. Also my system might not be resolving enough to reveal them as well. What confuses me is, if I could care less about the price differences, is Bifrost Multibit going to give me even a slight advantage sonically over Modi Multibit or not. I know it would be best to audition them both and decide for myself, but lets just say its not an option for me at this moment.

    So finally, as I said, I am leaning towards Modi Multibit+Eitr mainly because of point 1 & 5 (plus it saves me some money). I'll be using it with Hegel H90 integrated and a pair of KEF R500. Source will be HP Laptop / MacBook Pro. Currently using the built-in DAC of Hegel. Will appreciate any of your comments (positive and negative).

    Best regards.
     
  9. MellowVelo

    MellowVelo Friend

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    Bifrost Multibit can certainly give you some advantages if you’re considering it in terms of technicalities, but I think that you’re correct to note that Modi Multibit provides the more cohesive presentation. You have to decide for yourself what’s most important (technicalities vs. overall presentation). Personally, I’d pick presentation. Unless you’re ready to jump to the level of a Gungnir Multibit or Yggdrasil, my suggestion is to stick with Modi Multibit plus Etir. Gungnir Multibit and Yggdrasil do a better job of integrating the technicalities into a cohesive presentation, whereas I think that Bifrost Multibit is the odd child in the lot.

    TL;DR: buy the Modi Multibit and Etir and be happy with it. It’s not a slouch system.
     
  10. n2n

    n2n New

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    That helps. I'll definitely pick overall presentation. Gungnir Multibit/ Yggdrasil is out of the menu for me now... and at least for a couple of years I guess. So yeah, I'm gonna take your advice and be happy with Modi Multibit+Eitr. Thanks. :)
     
  11. n2n

    n2n New

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    BTW.... I gotta get some of the cables as well. I'll grab the USB from schiit site. Any suggestions for Coax & RCA? Saw some 6-12$ cables in amazon like amazonbasics, monoprice, mediabridge etc. Are they any good? Don't want to spend a fortune, but want to avoid crappy stuffs.
     
  12. MellowVelo

    MellowVelo Friend

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    For budget-minded cables, I always purchase from Blue Jeans Cable. They're a little more expensive than Amazon and Monoprice, but the build quality is superb, and they're completely transparent with what they're selling you. Everything they sell is essentially broadcast-quality wire designed for industry applications. I appreciate their no-nonsense approach.

    I've made several purchases from them over the last decade, and I've never had a single issue.
     
  13. Baten

    Baten Friend

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    Intrigued by the Musical Paradise MP-D2 MK2. Since it has ES9038 AK4490 AK4497 DAC modules, future upgradability seems like a feature very few DACs offer. It also has a tube stage within the DAC with low/high pre gain function.

    I've not really found a lot about it besides head-fi hype though. Does anyone here have anything to say about it? Any reason why I should avoid it like the plague :p? Cheers.
     
  14. Shazb0t

    Shazb0t New

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    I've been using Monoprice premium RCA cables for years without any complaints. They are a bit stiff, but solidly built:
    https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=5346

    Not sure about good suggestions for Coax.
     
  15. allegro

    allegro Friend

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    It has been for sale for over two weeks now and might just not sell to the HF crowd. The unit is five years old, early production and has been modded. It needs a new volume pot and then there are the shipping charges to consider, also concern about damage during overseas shipping. I am surprised that someone on this forum who is experienced in EC amp repair has not bought it as a project: correct the mods and any problems and flip it for a profit or just keep as a part of EC history.
     
  16. Mystic

    Mystic Mystique's Spiritual Advisor

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    Does anyone know where I can get thin plastic CD sleeves? I have a lot of albums that come in those paper/cardboard cases instead of jewel cases so the CD is in constant contact with the cardboard every time I remove a disc to play.

    I found some big ones on Amazon but I need something small and snug. I'd like to be able to fit the CDs in these sleeves back into their normal album case/cardboard sleeve.
     
  17. sophilo

    sophilo New

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    My current setup is HD 650, Lyr 2 with stock tubes, and a Modi Multibit. I’m looking to upgrade headphones, with a budget around 500-800 USD.

    I’ve been looking at the HD 800, Sundara, DT1990, Elear, and Monoproce planars. I don’t have the ability to audition (no retailers in my area AFAIK). I’m open to used pairs, but reports of poor build quality (hifiman) are making me nervous. I love my 650s, but would like something with more detail and wider soundstage. Any headphones I should be considering?
     
  18. MoshingPanda

    MoshingPanda New

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    Hey all,

    Looking for some closed back recommendations in the 800-1k range. My current setup is a Lyr 3 with the LISST and Tungsol 6SN7 and the MB DAC. I'm currently using Mad Dog Pros with the setup and have the 64 Ears V6-Stage as portables. The tubes aren't as technical as solid state or as responsive but I really appreciate the warmer tone with dark cans and the improved soundstage. Prior to the Lyr I was running the O2 headphone amp.

    I'm currently a big fan of fast, clear reproductions with out too much treble. I noticed that the Mad Dogs cut off at 15k (from a listening test) and can't help but wonder what else I'm missing. What I do like most them is the fast response and quality bass in conjunction with the Lyr. I spend most of my time listening to metal, jazz, and indie.

    What I value in headphones is detail, instrumentation separation, fast response, and soundstage. That's what I love most about my IEMs. Ironic since I want closed backs but they're for work in an open floor plan so it is what it is.

    Prior to this I've had the Denon D2000s which I loved along with the UE TripleFis. I think I'm leaning more towards the Mr. Speakers Aeon Closed but unsure if they're what I'm looking for. I am close to Audio 46 in NYC so I should be able to demo most anything. I also listen to cans for 10+ hours a day so comfort is a must!

    Thanks!
     
  19. Mystic

    Mystic Mystique's Spiritual Advisor

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    The HD800 certainly has the detail and wider soundstage, however it is a very different presentation than the HD650. You could also try upgrading your amp. The Modi Multibit is a solid DAC but the Lyr 2 is holding back your 650 and would also be a less than ideal pairing with the HD800. The 650 scales like mad.

    Your price range gets you to the HD800. I haven't heard the Elex but the other headphones you mentioned I didn't care for or are what I would consider side-grades to your 650, in some cases a downgrade.

    To keep price on your side, you could try the HD800, but I would suggest trying a Valhalla 2 with it if the Lyr 2 pairing isn't doing anything for you. You could pretty easily sell your Lyr 2 and buy a used Valhalla 2 with the funds. It would also be worth trying the Valhalla 2 with your 650 as well. When I had both the Lyr 2 and Valhalla 2, the former basically crushed the already poor soundstage of the 650 and smeared over micro details. The Valhalla 2 blows up the soundstage a bit and can really begin to show you what the Senns are made of.
     
  20. DrForBin

    DrForBin Friend

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    hello,
    very much a non-audio request for help.
    the Texture by Next Issue application is ending Windows support. i have been using it on a 14 inch Lenovo Yoga as i needed something close to full (paper) page size to be able to read comfortably.
    the application was recently purchased by the folks in Cupertino, and the supported platforms are now iOS, Android and Fire OS.
    in store demo devices block application downloads so i have been unable to try before i buy a new piece of hardware. my Nexus 7 is too small to use.
    has anyone had a good experience with the Texture application on a 10 inch Amazon Fire or on a 9.7 inch iPad?
    i am a voracious consumer of periodicals and Texture was easily the best bang for the buck.
    thanks for any help!

     
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