Thanks for the review of the Q11. The op-amps are swappable as well. Which means you can change the audio characteristics of the Q11! It has two LME49720 dual op-amps, which means you could upgrade the op-amps to the Sparkos SS3602 Dual discrete op-amps. You can manipulate the soundstage, imaging, and detail of the audio.
Love the intro! Lots of hype around this equipment recently. Good to hear your take and measured review. I have heard the difference between my DACs, but coming down to semantics and personal preferences. I generally tune my output via an equalizer, which basically obviates the DAC nuances from my PC, both music and gaming. Thank you as always for your time, efforts and for sharing this with us all.
There could be a reason why Pioneer DJ use AKM chips in their mixers and top of the line DJ controllers…they are the warmer more cosy chip, more seductive even sexier sounding chip, better for nightclubs….anyhoo this kind of switch design is excellent when swapping out amps and speakers at home, nice one Douk!
Saw a video where a guy moaning about all of the controls that have been taken away so "fiddlers" could not play with the sound. Now, along with equalizers, we have multiple tuning nozzles, dip switches and DACs with 2 different chips. Think of all of the various combinations one can have. He should be delighted.
@@gwine9087 I need them to bring back the balance knob,lol. It helps so much if you have a little bit of hearing loss in one ear or your room is very awkwardly structured.
DACs have come quite a long way since the days and years I worked at High Fidelity (a long long time ago & you know when Bob). Much smaller, generally weighs less, and FAR LESS expensive (for the most part). Great overview and awesome to stumble upon this channel and see a familiar face. Keep up the good work and hope to see you around town soon.
Victory you say? Begun the Dac Wars has! There is another type of dac that is returning rapidly among audiophiles and those are the R2R DACs. Also called multibit. They had been almost forgotten because they are more difficult and expensive to produce. But they sound more 'analog' and that should interest you. 😉 Try get a hold of the new FIIO K11 R2R. Same price, very different take. (Notice, there is also an older cheaper K11 with a CS43198 dac)
Btw, I started with an R2R dac 10y ago, just bought a Laiv Harmony and my 'old' Denafrips Ares II will be for sale. But that one is much more budget friendly (but still not cheap).
Dacs are very important. My husband dac was no longer feeling my needs. A new younger neighbor moved in and damn his dac was magic ❤.I often sneak out at night just to experience it. Best Regards a no longer lonely house wife
You should get a neohippo vu meter to switch speakers and amps. There is also something magical about pairing detailed gear with warmish gear, a certain synergy. Doesnt always work, but when it does, it can be pretty darn good.
Good note, Scott. Lots of quick decisions to make in production. Not everything hits with everyone. I try not to over analyze it. It's done and out in the world! But I totally understand your take.
You'd be surprised how many young viewers have no idea what the reference is. Bruce Springsteen is a really old guy. And almost nobody knows Franky goes to Hollywood (that version is even better). As long as you don't have to explain your own jokes, you're ok. 😁
Fonzy goes to Hollywood! I see what you did there Bob. 😂 I saw the opamps are socketed. That means an easy and very worthwhile upgrade is possible! Even more important than the dac-chip for real budding audiophiles. Try some OracleII 02 at $7 a piece. You'll be surprised.
Love the digital in the USA. Is like the USDA! Wow you have some gear 😮. I would bro-stalk you if I still lived in ATX to hear that setup. I moved to rural Colorado and there ain't nothing to hear 'round here. Looking forward to the Black Ice review.
I’m loving my Schiit Multibit2 which uses neither chip. To my ears it has depth that sounds more like my turntable. (Took awhile to sweeten up) AKM, ESS, soundstage well, imaging not so much. Hey, I’m one of those who bought the Heco Aurora 300s after your vid. Open box half price! Told a friend a month later and they were already gone.
The Schiit Modi Multibit 2 says it is a true multibit DAC incorporating a military/medical grade (by Analog Devices) A/D converter. $299 from their site. I have no doubt they do better analog-out than many at the price, plus a fabulous USB-C in as well. Made in USA. I’m not their shill, just a very satisfied customer.
@@bradrapp3697 well I will check it out. No need to diss Asia. You get what you pay for, as long as you do your research. There are high end brands in China, Douk is not one of them, actually people would laugh if you started talking about Douk Audio, but this thing looks cool. I live in Asia, I probably see things you don't. No offence, but 'military medical grade analog devices' tells me nothing. Some things are still good that are made in the US. Like Burr Brown dacs, TI opamps.. There is still good stuff being made. Still, I think I will take my Cayin ru7 'all to Dsd' 1 bit dongle dac, over almost any desktop dac.
People who can't hear the difference in dac chips should use bluetooth from their phone. That being said, it's all personal preference. I like the concept of this thing, ess treble without the glare? They are both good mid level (under flagship) dac chips. For me they are very different. Both have their good points and bad points, it's not endgame. I think it would be nice for my nightstand. I don't care to spend big money on expensive gear, I am happy with this level of performance. The earphones make a bigger difference.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Does it have a proper fgpa and at least two femtosecond clocks? Antipop? (that's an album by Primus, btw)... If it has those things, it's pretty good, for a first dac.
Cool! Be nice to hear your thoughts on the differences. In theory the output stage should be similar between the two DAC chipsets so this should be a true test of DAC chip differences!
These DACs from asia sound very similar. Very clean and detailed a decently wide soundstage but not too much in terms of depth. For the money they are great, but once you start going more upscale the differences become more obvious.
If you have 2 rca outputs from this device, then wouldn’t you need to be plugged into 2 separate inputs on your amp? So the switching of chips really requires switching the source input at the amp as well. And how do you take advantage of Mode 1 which combines both chips? My unit is coming tomorrow so I may have to get more cables or an adapter to set this up.
No. By using (for example) Output 1 and selecting Mode 1 AKM + ESS, ESS is going to that Output 1. Then using the remote to select Mode 2 AKM which sends AKM to both outputs... you're are effectively switching between the two DACs, outputting to the same amp. You'll understand it better when you actually handle it.
I have 2 set's 1 hi-fi ( at hall ) 2 DAC amplifier ( at room ) Both already set-up for movies & music Hall HiFi 7.2.1(Dolby Atmos) Room DAC MQA THX HIRES DSD amplifier 🎧 240 ohms That's my audio set-up
Unless you happen to live near a rather powerful transmitter EMI is a complete non-issue in modern equipment. Most of it is filtered with bypass capacitors and ferrite beads on signal paths.
Most likely use-case ... dealer showrooms. Don't see much need of it in day to day listening. But sure enough you will have a bunch of "golden ears" who will use ESS for some music AKM for other. Lke they used to do with phono head shells. They will have log books and lists and they will switch modes every time. Some might even get angry if someone uses the wrong mode... The ultimate picky arsed playtoy!
these Dac's have fitlers that is the main difference in sound is just that the filter implementations this is a common trend no one seems to get it magic chips changing things no its the implementation of the DAC filters
Thanks for the great info. At that price point, that's the Dac Daddy of dacs! Dueling dual dacs disputing their dynamic distinction down at the desert dune. (My apologies to Sally.)
Thanks for the review of the Q11. The op-amps are swappable as well. Which means you can change the audio characteristics of the Q11! It has two LME49720 dual op-amps, which means you could upgrade the op-amps to the Sparkos SS3602 Dual discrete op-amps. You can manipulate the soundstage, imaging, and detail of the audio.
@@dungysphincter7974 thanks for the notes! Very cool!
Perhaps they’ll make a modular dac system similar to xduoo xd05 pro too.
Love the intro! Lots of hype around this equipment recently. Good to hear your take and measured review. I have heard the difference between my DACs, but coming down to semantics and personal preferences. I generally tune my output via an equalizer, which basically obviates the DAC nuances from my PC, both music and gaming. Thank you as always for your time, efforts and for sharing this with us all.
There could be a reason why Pioneer DJ use AKM chips in their mixers and top of the line DJ controllers…they are the warmer more cosy chip, more seductive even sexier sounding chip, better for nightclubs….anyhoo this kind of switch design is excellent when swapping out amps and speakers at home, nice one Douk!
Saw a video where a guy moaning about all of the controls that have been taken away so "fiddlers" could not play with the sound. Now, along with equalizers, we have multiple tuning nozzles, dip switches and DACs with 2 different chips. Think of all of the various combinations one can have. He should be delighted.
@@gwine9087 I need them to bring back the balance knob,lol. It helps so much if you have a little bit of hearing loss in one ear or your room is very awkwardly structured.
I wish douk would offer one chip DAC with 2 switchable output buffers. Or 3. Transistor, opamp, tubes. This make greater sense than 2 DAC chip
I'll let them know! You never know what's coming down the pike (or is it pipe?)
DACs have come quite a long way since the days and years I worked at High Fidelity (a long long time ago & you know when Bob). Much smaller, generally weighs less, and FAR LESS expensive (for the most part). Great overview and awesome to stumble upon this channel and see a familiar face. Keep up the good work and hope to see you around town soon.
Thanks! I miss High Fidelity every Saturday!
@UnitedStatesofAnalog You're welcome! Hifi was definitely a great place to work, to hang out with good people, and listen to great gear.
I like your vids, man. Fun and entertaining!
I appreciate that! It's a process! Please sub me if you haven't already. Thanks!
Definitely has my interest and at a good price too.
Victory you say? Begun the Dac Wars has!
There is another type of dac that is returning rapidly among audiophiles and those are the R2R DACs. Also called multibit. They had been almost forgotten because they are more difficult and expensive to produce. But they sound more 'analog' and that should interest you. 😉
Try get a hold of the new FIIO K11 R2R. Same price, very different take. (Notice, there is also an older cheaper K11 with a CS43198 dac)
Thanks! I haven't experienced R2R yet but I hear a lot of chatter on it lately! I'll check out the Fiio
Btw, I started with an R2R dac 10y ago, just bought a Laiv Harmony and my 'old' Denafrips Ares II will be for sale. But that one is much more budget friendly (but still not cheap).
Dacs are very important. My husband dac was no longer feeling my needs. A new younger neighbor moved in and damn his dac was magic ❤.I often sneak out at night just to experience it. Best Regards a no longer lonely house wife
You should try a better tranny for your turntable!
@@TheMrgonzalo05 This should be a major motion picture!
I don’t have a very big DAC, I’ve just got a dirty stylus.
@bradrapp3697 huge fan of a long stiff tone arm
I can stream it to you
You should get a neohippo vu meter to switch speakers and amps. There is also something magical about pairing detailed gear with warmish gear, a certain synergy. Doesnt always work, but when it does, it can be pretty darn good.
Totally agree with you!
When you say, see what I did there, it diminishes what you did. IMO. Yes we saw what you did,
Good video BTW!
Good note, Scott. Lots of quick decisions to make in production. Not everything hits with everyone. I try not to over analyze it. It's done and out in the world! But I totally understand your take.
You'd be surprised how many young viewers have no idea what the reference is. Bruce Springsteen is a really old guy. And almost nobody knows Franky goes to Hollywood (that version is even better).
As long as you don't have to explain your own jokes, you're ok. 😁
@@Jeep_on_audio your right about that, my friend.
That was funny allusion
Fonzy goes to Hollywood! I see what you did there Bob. 😂
I saw the opamps are socketed. That means an easy and very worthwhile upgrade is possible! Even more important than the dac-chip for real budding audiophiles.
Try some OracleII 02 at $7 a piece. You'll be surprised.
Maybe I'll try my hand at an upgrade! Thanks for the tip!
Does anyone know what op amps will work in this new q11 dac?
Will burson v5i opamps work?
I already answered that. Just Google it. Burson will work but it doesn't need to be that expensive.
I had no idea
Love the digital in the USA. Is like the USDA! Wow you have some gear 😮. I would bro-stalk you if I still lived in ATX to hear that setup. I moved to rural Colorado and there ain't nothing to hear 'round here. Looking forward to the Black Ice review.
I’m loving my Schiit Multibit2 which uses neither chip. To my ears it has depth that sounds more like my turntable. (Took awhile to sweeten up) AKM, ESS, soundstage well, imaging not so much. Hey, I’m one of those who bought the Heco Aurora 300s after your vid. Open box half price! Told a friend a month later and they were already gone.
What's in the Schitt? Yeah... Heco should send me a t-shirt or something!
How much is the Schitt?
The Schiit Modi Multibit 2 says it is a true multibit DAC incorporating a military/medical grade (by Analog Devices) A/D converter. $299 from their site. I have no doubt they do better analog-out than many at the price, plus a fabulous USB-C in as well. Made in USA. I’m not their shill, just a very satisfied customer.
@@wahid-lg1kk $299
@@bradrapp3697 well I will check it out. No need to diss Asia. You get what you pay for, as long as you do your research. There are high end brands in China, Douk is not one of them, actually people would laugh if you started talking about Douk Audio, but this thing looks cool. I live in Asia, I probably see things you don't. No offence, but 'military medical grade analog devices' tells me nothing. Some things are still good that are made in the US. Like Burr Brown dacs, TI opamps.. There is still good stuff being made. Still, I think I will take my Cayin ru7 'all to Dsd' 1 bit dongle dac, over almost any desktop dac.
thumbs up for that intro lol
Gracias!
People who can't hear the difference in dac chips should use bluetooth from their phone. That being said, it's all personal preference. I like the concept of this thing, ess treble without the glare? They are both good mid level (under flagship) dac chips. For me they are very different. Both have their good points and bad points, it's not endgame. I think it would be nice for my nightstand. I don't care to spend big money on expensive gear, I am happy with this level of performance. The earphones make a bigger difference.
I think we are saying the same thing! I DO think this product is marketed to people that are looking for their first of second DAC.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Does it have a proper fgpa and at least two femtosecond clocks? Antipop? (that's an album by Primus, btw)... If it has those things, it's pretty good, for a first dac.
Love the Edwin star reference. Nice video my friend. I have got one on its way to me too.
Cool! Be nice to hear your thoughts on the differences. In theory the output stage should be similar between the two DAC chipsets so this should be a true test of DAC chip differences!
Let me know what you think! I'm going to power-watch your latest vids this weekend! Keep on truckin', my friend!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog That Black Ice you have is coming to me next.
@@michaeldina1103 Soon.
These DACs from asia sound very similar. Very clean and detailed a decently wide soundstage but not too much in terms of depth. For the money they are great, but once you start going more upscale the differences become more obvious.
If you have 2 rca outputs from this device, then wouldn’t you need to be plugged into 2 separate inputs on your amp? So the switching of chips really requires switching the source input at the amp as well. And how do you take advantage of Mode 1 which combines both chips? My unit is coming tomorrow so I may have to get more cables or an adapter to set this up.
No. By using (for example) Output 1 and selecting Mode 1 AKM + ESS, ESS is going to that Output 1. Then using the remote to select Mode 2 AKM which sends AKM to both outputs... you're are effectively switching between the two DACs, outputting to the same amp. You'll understand it better when you actually handle it.
Bobfather 15k by Labor Day! From NYC!
So how does Mode 1 work?
I didn't expect YOU of all people to eulogize a gimmicky Chifi DAC as a Game Changer.
@@athathsonty2925 Sorry I disappointed you. I thought it was unique. I found it useful and a decent performer.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog It IS Unique and quite a decent Performer, but not a Game Changer.
I had a teacher who used to come into the locker room, and say, "Sorry lads, no rugby today, football this afternoon."
She was a Game Changer.
Dcs stack behind you?
You should check out the Fiio K11 R2R
You're the 2nd person to tell me that!!!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog it's kind of a hype 😉
@@D1N02not really a hype. But surely the cheapest discrete R2R on the market of its kind. Looks very promising.
I have 2 set's
1 hi-fi ( at hall )
2 DAC amplifier ( at room )
Both already set-up for movies & music
Hall HiFi 7.2.1(Dolby Atmos)
Room DAC
MQA THX HIRES DSD amplifier
🎧 240 ohms
That's my audio set-up
And Fiio released an R2R dac for 170 euro. Oh happy dayz
LAiv, Denafrips , Eversolo, Topping , SMSL, XDuo, the Chinese dominate low and mid fi
Who let the dogs out? Who? Who, Who Who?
It never fails!!!!
I got the Geshelli J2 with 4499s and it is BAD TO DA BONE!!
Me got one too! It's schweet!
The open top will pick up huge amounts of EM interference I think.
@@vo4wb interesting thought! Geshelli puts plexi front and back on J2. Are tops different? I need to look into that.
Unless you happen to live near a rather powerful transmitter EMI is a complete non-issue in modern equipment. Most of it is filtered with bypass capacitors and ferrite beads on signal paths.
i guess when AKM dies, we can use ESS
Ha! Yes always AKM first!
Better than the LAIV DAC?
Dang it! Now I want one!
I wonder if it will ever go on sale! Keep your eyes open!!!! Thanks for watching!
7:40 - what is 'on the fly' ?
I guess it means "at will" or "at your discretion."
Without turning everything off, changing cables and wires around, restarting the whole system and waiting for it to warm back up.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog haha okay. A little girl told me it means 'in real time'
now i'll have to go and tell her, she lies.
Discrete class A output stages 😊
I'm listening to Douk audio q11 compared to Breeze audio SU4 (4493eq).... I think that Q11 is just a toy compared to SU4
2 DACs is like 5 wheels in a car
Most likely use-case ... dealer showrooms. Don't see much need of it in day to day listening.
But sure enough you will have a bunch of "golden ears" who will use ESS for some music AKM for other. Lke they used to do with phono head shells. They will have log books and lists and they will switch modes every time. Some might even get angry if someone uses the wrong mode... The ultimate picky arsed playtoy!
these Dac's have fitlers that is the main difference in sound is just that the filter implementations this is a common trend no one seems to get it magic chips changing things no its the implementation of the DAC filters
I want to hear more about those Topping amps🤔👀
Plugging them in today to start the journey!
Thanks for the great info. At that price point, that's the Dac Daddy of dacs!
Dueling dual dacs disputing their dynamic distinction down at the desert dune. (My apologies to Sally.)
I don't know if it's endgame... but a pretty good value, I think! Thanks for the watch! And hopefully I've earned a sub!
Subscribed when you launched! Keep on keeping on!
Just what the world needs … not.
You- decide what people want. Different people are in different stages of their audio journey, different needs, different budgets... c'mon
I bought one fucknuts
Moist
la la la la la la la la and it was 10 minutes about nothing! 🤦♂️👎🤬
@@PatrxLV aw, man, why you harshin' my gig?