OP Amp Swapping: Is It the Key to Better Sound Quality or a Waste of Time?

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  • Опубліковано 19 жов 2022
  • In this hobby, we come across a lot of different tweaks and tricks that claim they improve the sound quality of the component you're upgrading. Do OP amps fit in the category of truth or myth... Watch the video and find out.
    Buy Sparkos OP Amps Here: sparkoslabs.com/discrete-op-a...
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    #opamp #sparkos #hifi
  • Наука та технологія

КОМЕНТАРІ • 137

  • @BRATWURST1
    @BRATWURST1 Рік тому +5

    I recently replaced a pair of OPA2134 op amps with Orange OP amps in a Nova Fidelity X45 streamer which improved the sound but the tweek I made a few weeks earlier improved the sound at least double that of the OP amp upgrade for about one fifth of the price;replacing about a dozen local decoupling electrolytic caps,Nichicon Fine Gold,with Panasonic Polymer electrolytics which feed the balanced ESS Sabre DACs and OP amps.
    I can`t stress enough that even OP amps like the OPA2134s have their performance thwarted by standard electrolytic caps.

  • @NickArcade
    @NickArcade 6 місяців тому

    It's 2024 and I'll be with you til the 1 mil. Thanks for this video. I've been researching about upgrading the op amp in my SteelSeries GameDAC

  • @MrBenherrmann
    @MrBenherrmann Рік тому +27

    I first discovered the entire conversation about replaceable op-amps in a video done by the Cheap Audioman on UA-cam. I took the chance and upgraded the op amps in my Aiyima A07, A08, and A300 amps over the past year. I couldn't believe the differences in audio qualities, and it literally significantly upgraded the audio capabilities of those inexpensive Chinese amps into contenders in the above $500 price point (quickly). I then tried the op-amp change-outs in the likes of various DACs (that allowed for interchangeable op-amps) and again, the sound became warmer, and more dynamic - an absolute pleasure to listen to. Since first being introduced into the realm of op-amps, I've purchased a variety of models from various brands - Burson, Texas Instruments, Muses, and of course the Sparkos Labs Op-amps. I also made the "mistake" of purchasing cheaper Chinese knock-offs off of eBay and most were less than stellar (you get what you pay for). I'd have to say that overall, the Sparkos op amps do the best, but of course, you pay for it. Folks if you've tube rolled in the past with various tube components, then the introduction to op-amp rolling will really open your eyes. Sorry - I just had to provide some input here on this subject.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      I did videos on OP amps before he existed on UA-cam, lol. I am glad more UA-camrs are learning from my efforts and showing their audiences the secret tricks of the trade. I am glad you were able to see the difference in quality.

    • @MasterofPlay7
      @MasterofPlay7 Рік тому +2

      So which one is your personal favorite? Or the best bang for the buck?

    • @MrBenherrmann
      @MrBenherrmann Рік тому +3

      @@MasterofPlay7 I can highly recommend the Sparkos Labs and the Burson models. Some very less expensive models have done well also. It's a matter of what sounds good to your ears.

    • @MrBenherrmann
      @MrBenherrmann Рік тому +3

      @@MasterofPlay7 Y'know - answering that can be tricky. For example, if I happen to like the sound of one or two of them, then I'll read comments (or a review) whereby the individual(s) talk about how bad the op-amps are sonically. Then I keep scratching my head wondering if my hearing is off. In the end, it's all subjective - based on how we hear, what we're listening through (equipment dependent), and so much more. If you don't mind spending the money, the Sparkos Labs op-amps are really nice - and so are the various models from Burson (although the Sparkos Labs, IMO, have a warmer tonality overall).
      If you don't want to spend that kind of money, then I can highly recommend the Texas Instruments LME49720NA. Those are really ridiculously inexpensive - at around $3 to $4 each (I buy them in packs of 10 at Digikey.com.
      If you don't want to buy something that cheap, then I also highly recommend the MUSES02 Op Amp which run anywhere from $45 to $49 USD (depending on where you buy them at. I found this op-amp to be an outstanding medium-point price-wise that can really improve your sound.

    • @MasterofPlay7
      @MasterofPlay7 Рік тому

      @@MrBenherrmann yes i have aiyima T8, i tube rolled with 5670 but i found the stock tube 6n3 sounds warmer and more mellow (given i listen to jazz most of the time), the 5670 is too analytical and clear like in your face....

  • @joshchacko7729
    @joshchacko7729 6 місяців тому +1

    Thank you man,
    You have a great smile/laugh. Enjoy.

  • @HEARDIFFERENT
    @HEARDIFFERENT Рік тому +2

    I love how the internet and UA-cam connect us in a way some years before we could not. Mike we are so lucky to be here.👏👏👏💎💎💎🔊🔊🔊

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      Thank you my friend you are the best!

  • @popculture70
    @popculture70 Рік тому +12

    I followed the instructions in your previous video about opamps and upgraded the NE5534s (if I remember correctly) in my Ayima A3 preamp to the Muses02s. The difference was very surprising and I much prefer the soundstage the Muses02 chips produce. It's definitely not tin-foil hat, it's a real and noticable improvement in sound quality. As for tubes, the GE JAN 5654 W give me the warmest sound out of the ones I've tried, which is what I prefer for the classic rock and prog I listen to.

  • @billdoran7137
    @billdoran7137 4 місяці тому

    Great stuff. Thank you. I have developed a renewed passion for home theater and sound quality in general, and I can't believe how far Class D has come. We live in a great time for this hobby!

  • @georgestefano673
    @georgestefano673 7 місяців тому

    Totally agree loved the rad quality about it,thanks .

  • @CatFoodDraino
    @CatFoodDraino 8 місяців тому

    On my tube 03, I recapped the unit with quality caps. Made a huge difference. I upgraded the op chips, thinking bout trying the sparkos next

  • @armandorancano6415
    @armandorancano6415 Рік тому +2

    Hi, Mike, I did the Sparkos on my Aiyima a07 and it sounds very very good. I also have a Douk Audio h7. Does it have swappable op amps and how in the world do u take that lid off? Can't find any information on either. Thought u might know. Thanks!

  • @scottlowell493
    @scottlowell493 Рік тому +1

    They absolutely make a BIG difference.
    My personal proof?
    1. Overhauled Bose 901 eq. New op amps offered vastly improved clarity, speed of transients and bass.(Not that I'm a bose fan, but it worked like gangbusters)
    2. Proprietary new op amps installed in my vintage carver gear. Gave the amp a much more modern, clear and dynamic sound.
    3. Schiit audio devices have different opamps. One sound is softer like tubes, the other more energetic and bright. Compare a magni 3 vs magni heresy.
    Quality opamps: More power, better bandwidth, faster slew rate.
    On a small scale, it's like driving your Burchardts with a cheap 70's kenwood receiver vs a modern 200 watt mosfet amp.

  • @ricsim78
    @ricsim78 Рік тому +7

    That is why I hate ASR, I used to be a member and thought it would be fun to be on there and discuss what I love. They insist all OP AMPS sound the same, as soon as someone comes in and says they heard differences, the parrot regulars all attack the person and claim it must be malfunctioning, or their "audio memory is too short to tell", which is BS! Swapping OP AMPS from the stock NE5532 on my Fosi Audio P1 to genuine LM4562 made a major improvement in the sound. I would like to try Muses or Sparkos next.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      I find Muses a lot more bass friendly than Sparkos, but both sound great. I don't pay attention to people who criticize others over a subjective hobby. Those parrots have too much time on their hands and need to worry more about themselves. 😆

  • @kennethoransky4881
    @kennethoransky4881 Рік тому +6

    What a coincidence. I just installed two opa2134s in my Aiyima A07. About $20 for the pair. Can't believe the difference.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      Very nice.

    • @peterlarkin762
      @peterlarkin762 Рік тому +3

      Opa2134s are really great and basically one of the only real affordable 'hifi' opamps still available in dip8 format. I built my own preamp last year, tested various opamps for a year.... Now its all opa2134 (6 in total).

    • @asplmn
      @asplmn Рік тому +1

      Love the OPA2134. If you want to go a step up, I'd recommend the Sparkos

    • @kennethoransky4881
      @kennethoransky4881 Рік тому

      @@asplmn $$$$!

  • @thomasstanfel7589
    @thomasstanfel7589 Рік тому +3

    I'm a big believer in Op Amp rolling. I love the Sparkos Labs 3602 ,Burson V6s , and Orange Amplifiers Dual Discrete Ops Amp. I roll the above mentions in my Aune X8 Dac Magic and Burson Conductor 3XP with great success.

    • @ruger6049
      @ruger6049 Рік тому

      I have an identical setup. Which ones in the Aune do you prefer? What type of music? Thanks!!!!!

    • @thomasstanfel7589
      @thomasstanfel7589 Рік тому

      @@ruger6049 I like the Sparkos Labs and Orange Amplifiers ops amps the best, they definitely add clarity and warmth to sound. Dynamics improve greatly,especially if you add Aune's linear power supply. I listen to about everything.If you enjoy guitar oriented music, you will like Orange Amps ops amp. It's roughly the same price as the Sparkos.

    • @thomasstanfel7589
      @thomasstanfel7589 Рік тому

      @@ruger6049 I forgot to mention that I got the Burson Max Current power supply for my XP...it definitely makes an improvement.

    • @MohammedSinghar
      @MohammedSinghar Місяць тому

      rolling means to build your own, not just swapping it with one that was already built by someone else

  • @phillipkelly736
    @phillipkelly736 4 місяці тому +2

    I totally agree. I did it made a huge difference

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  4 місяці тому

      Nice! Glad it worked out for you

    • @phillipkelly736
      @phillipkelly736 4 місяці тому

      I put them in a duel chip DAC one op amp per channel. $60 Aust for 3 of them not bad for the wide open sound I got. Cheer

  • @miguelsalami
    @miguelsalami 2 місяці тому +2

    Opinions on the LM4562NA ?

    • @markgriffiths6540
      @markgriffiths6540 Місяць тому +1

      For me excellent. Tried OP2604 and AD823 - the LMs were better - more balanced.

  • @thezfunk
    @thezfunk Рік тому +1

    Speaking of the hobbyist, I still roll my Auzentech Bravura 5.1 sound card in my computer. They made the op amps swappable in the card. I love having that flexibility. Sadly, Auzentech is gone and so too, it seems, is the easily customizable PC sound card market. I get it, I can easily do that now with a USB DAC and amp but there was something special about having a sound card in my PC I could do that with and not have to have all these extra components.

  • @TurboSound1983
    @TurboSound1983 7 місяців тому +1

    As you say in the video, it's a great way to experiment with the hobby and try to get the best out of the components.
    In front of me are BB OPA 2134, 2604, LME49720, TI OPA1612, OPA1622

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  7 місяців тому

      I just bought a pair of OPA2134! How do you like them?

    • @axaro1738
      @axaro1738 4 місяці тому

      Hi @TeamMSound , can you share your experience with the OPA1612? I'm currently considering replacing the stock ne5532 in my amp.

  • @subant05
    @subant05 Рік тому +1

    I currently use the same opamp in a Maverick Audio D2 Dac. Takes the $250 Dac to the same level if not beyond the Schiit Bifrost. I compared the upgraded Dac to a Rega CD player, which cost $1000, and the D2 with a cheap dvd player as a transport was able to keep pace with it.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      It's magical what a DAC can do

  • @NeilBlanchard
    @NeilBlanchard Рік тому +1

    I am relatively new to swapping op-amps, but they are quite amazing. I have two devices that use them - a Geshelli Labs J2S DAC and an AkitikA PR-102 preamp. I have tried about 7 or 8 different op-amps: the PR-102 came with OPA2134 in six sockets. I tried some clones of the venerable OPA627, which are two single SOIC chips mounted on a DIP8 plug, an function as a dual op-amp. This are pretty amazing, considering they cost $6-8 each *shipped*. I tried the Sparkos SS3602 in the input and output stages of the PR-102, and they were so good, I decided to go for the gusto, and got the SS2590 dual module. These are *stunningly* great! They require 1 or 2 risers to install them above the nearby components.
    In the J2S, I have also tried the OPA1612, and the OPA637, the Muses02, in addition to the 2134 and the two Sparkos units. And I have settled on the SS2590 (with some risers) in the RCA socket, and the SS3602 in the XLR sockets.
    I am curious about the Burson V6 Vivid and Classic; and about the Staccato units. And there is a Chinese Douk Audio/Nobsound SX45B that is slightly larger then the SS3602 but costs less than $32 shipped.

    • @souldoc123
      @souldoc123 9 місяців тому +1

      you dont tried muses05?

    • @NeilBlanchard
      @NeilBlanchard 9 місяців тому

      @@souldoc123 I have not tried the Muses05; though I did try a Muses02. It was my favorite of the chip op-amps, that I listened to.

  • @dariomendoza175
    @dariomendoza175 Рік тому

    Thank you for your video and explanation. I am very far to understand electronics and related topics, however I enjoy good sound and that is why I watch your video. So, this is my story. I have an FX-AUDIO DAC- X6MKII. The audio dac amp uses TPA6120 and OPA2134 and I would like to do an upgrade. The listing says that "The op amp can be freely replaced and upgraded". I have no idea how to do that but I can do some search. However I have some few questions for your and other subscribers from your channel. 1) Do you have any suggestions regarding chips that are a good and not too expensive replacement for the current ones? 2) Should I replace both chips mentioned or which one? 3) can you please suggest 2 or 3 options of replacement chips? I use edifier powered speakers and a Mac Book Pro as a source. I would really appreciate comments and suggestions. !

  • @joshchacko7729
    @joshchacko7729 6 місяців тому +1

    Is it possible to change bluetooth cards in upgradable DAC/AMPS like this and the Xduoo XD-05 Pro?

  • @Scrufboy
    @Scrufboy Рік тому +4

    I use SparkosLabs on my Aiyima A07. Recently I bought the new A07 pro. It has. 5 sockets. I have been testing it out with 5 Sparkos SS3602's. I got a fantastic discount from Andrew... But you are correct. 5 Sparkos is $400 dumped into a $80 amplifier. I also put one in my Aune X8 XVIII DAC. I am also trying to secure 2 or 3 Burson V6 Vivids. I heard mixing the SparkoS a d the Burson makes for a really profound sounding device... I love what the SparkoS does... Great video!

  • @pickyaudiophile9898
    @pickyaudiophile9898 Рік тому +1

    I did rolling too. However, I never understood what I was doing in technical terms. We have to differentiate between buffer stage and current-to-voltage conversion (I/V). Expensive Op Amps not neccessarily outperformed the cheaper ones. Over the years I acquired some knowlege about what to do to e/g tame bass response or counter sharp treble and other kind of subtle alteration intended. And yes I captured A to B and inverted one of theses files and there was something audible in the differential file, as described by ASR's Amir.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      Glad you found a difference!

  • @jimsregaturntableshifijukebox
    @jimsregaturntableshifijukebox Рік тому +1

    very interesting subject 👍
    Jim 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🙂

  • @rts100x5
    @rts100x5 5 місяців тому

    been using Burson in a CLARO HALO XL soundcard for years .... game changer

  • @brianelgin272
    @brianelgin272 Рік тому

    Great video Mike. I appreciate how you address the subject, which can be controversial or "snake oil" to some. I've been involved in DIY audio for decades (especially vintage headphones), but haven't been active in the community for the past 11-12 years while my kids were growing up. I'm getting back into the hobby and have been researching some of these new products on the market that allow the users to experiment and upgrade the hardware. It's fantastic. I did a lot of tube rolling and output transistor rolling back in the day, but most of my diy builds were based on discrete topology.
    One point I would add is that the circuit design can influence how much difference you will hear with rolling components. Tubes, output transistors, OpAmps... the effects of these component swaps will vary based on the overall design of the circuits. The simpler the circuit design and the less feedback / error correction they incorporate, the more you will be able to hear sonic differences. If you really want to geek out and dive down the rabbit hole, it can be a fascinating topic to research. At least it was for me.
    I'm looking forward to picking up a Tube 03 and an Aiyia amp or two to experiment with.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      Hey Brian thanks for the kind words and for checking out the video. Save your money on the Aiyma. I am currently testing a Fosi you might like... the Tube 03 is a solid contender.

    • @brianelgin272
      @brianelgin272 Рік тому

      @@mykandrew Cool. Looking forward to that upcoming video. I was looking into the Fosi amps to see which ones had socketed OpAmps. Have you heard Pass' F5 amp? It's another one of the designs Nelson shared with the diyAudio community. It happens to make a very good vintage orthodynamic headphone amp with an upgraded PS...

    • @Scrufboy
      @Scrufboy Рік тому +2

      The people who claim snake oil are usually those who just don't have the ears to hear it. Same with cables. They do matter, even USB.

    • @brianelgin272
      @brianelgin272 Рік тому +1

      @@Scrufboy I have a Non-Oversampling USB DAC with BlackGate caps. For USB cables, I've found that ferrite chokes are really what's critical. Beyond that, there are steep diminishing returns with no audible differences to my ears. I was heavy into DIY audio, especially headphones. You can definitely hear differences if the sources are up to par. Unfortunately, high end gear also makes poorly mastered or recorded music practically unlistenable. A lot of people don't understand how harmonics and noise impact the "musicality" or enjoyment of the experience either. Specs and measurements don't fully translate to a great sound. One of the best headphone amps ever designed used LM317 voltage regulators as the output transistors! By design and through auditioning by the designer.

    • @Scrufboy
      @Scrufboy Рік тому +1

      @@brianelgin272 Lachlan from Passion for Sound had an interview with a guy that dove deep into USB cables.... You would probably enjoy it and you might even be surprised. - ua-cam.com/video/mrJxbjoK0X0/v-deo.html

  • @kevindewinter8235
    @kevindewinter8235 2 місяці тому

    What would you suggest for the douk audio t8 pro? I already bought a linear powersupy instead of the switching cheap psu that came with it. :) thx

  • @thomasb.900
    @thomasb.900 3 місяці тому +1

    I found this because i'm researching an obscure mod for the sega genesis which involves swapping the op amps for better ones and replacing a few ceramic capacitors, it is supposed to restore good audio to these system variants which are regarded as having bad sound compared to other motherboard revisions, specifically the sega genesis model 1 va7 revision and model 2 va0 to va1.8 revisions, there really isn't much information about this on youtube, all the videos are about other audio/video mods for the sega, but this mod is interesting to me and since i own 3 sega genesis that would benefit from it i ordered the parts and will attempt it

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  3 місяці тому +1

      Just make sure they are the right type of OP amp for the Genesis and you should definitely hear a difference!

  • @amanieux
    @amanieux Рік тому +1

    did you had 2 identical amp to do blind a/b testing between sparkos vs og and avoid the ikea effect ?

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      I did not have an identical unit.

  • @user-ew4no7zd7i
    @user-ew4no7zd7i 6 місяців тому

    Wiim Pro Plus streamer uses 5532 op-amps in the analog output stage. What is a significant upgrade from these ?
    I bet the space is limited in there... That might be a consideration too

  • @clarencehoover6748
    @clarencehoover6748 10 місяців тому +9

    Anyone who plans to remove an op amp from a socket should absolutely invest in a chip puller. It’s cheap and helps you safely remove the device without bending pins.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  10 місяців тому +1

      Agreed, I definitely need one as well!

    • @joshblank1
      @joshblank1 9 місяців тому +5

      How do I search for the appropriate chip puller?

    • @Douglas_Blake_579
      @Douglas_Blake_579 6 місяців тому

      @@joshblank1
      Go to your faviourite search engine and type in "IC Chip Puller"

    • @t0eKnEe103
      @t0eKnEe103 2 місяці тому +1

      @@joshblank1Engineer SS-08 👍🏼

    • @poyocru
      @poyocru Місяць тому

      ​@@joshblank1you can search for opamp lifter

  • @user-ht6oe5lu2c
    @user-ht6oe5lu2c Рік тому

    Where is ss2590pro suitable for? IVconversion、LPF、DC servo、Buffer、even portable headphone amplifier

  • @andrews4379
    @andrews4379 2 місяці тому

    What op za3 to use for Dali spektor 2 to open full power of speakers

  • @AllHandlesHaveBeenTaken
    @AllHandlesHaveBeenTaken Рік тому +2

    What if the opamps are soldered directly to the board? Anyone have know of a tutorial on that?

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      You have to get handy with soldering. There are a ton of tutorials on UA-cam on how to do this.

  • @josschreur6992
    @josschreur6992 Рік тому +1

    Did you try the weiss opamp. Should be top notch I am reading in reviews

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      I will look into it.

    • @xlr82bgr8
      @xlr82bgr8 4 місяці тому

      Yes, this would really interest me too! Would the Weiss OP2-BP work in Fosi ZA3, would they fit, or even work?@@mykandrew

  • @CrashTestingAudio
    @CrashTestingAudio 4 місяці тому

    I've really found rolling the op amps in my cheap DACS like the FX-Audio FX-D01 to much greater differences and really had fun with it over rolling them in amps. I think it's because you can get more of an upgrade in a cheap DAC (maybe except for the SMSL SU-1) than a well-built cheap AMP. I dunno though, that's what my ears told me.

  • @daysofgrace2934
    @daysofgrace2934 10 місяців тому

    i run my tube-03 v2-2 with any op-amp no tone or volume control but i use it to add tube sound with my neutral headphone amp (Arcam rHead) amplifies

  • @markgriffiths6540
    @markgriffiths6540 Місяць тому

    LM4562 - this seems to work really well in aiyima a07 max

  • @rupertherbert594
    @rupertherbert594 9 днів тому

    Thanks for the video, anyone knows the Oracle II 02, I'm trying to check for Muses02 and amazon suggest these ones instead. Thinking of replacing them in my Fosi V3, did someone tried the Oracle?

  • @reticulatedralphie7176
    @reticulatedralphie7176 Рік тому +3

    I'm way too chicken to try that right now, but hopefully someday. I'm still experimenting with room treatments.
    I do believe that tweaks can make a difference, and I don't need measurements to verify what I hear. That's why I keep my foil hat under my regular hat; so no one can see it.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      I wear mine proudly lol 😆

  • @Shozimus
    @Shozimus Рік тому +2

    Only after getting a Shit Freya with a Lokius I upgraded mine within my main system. That Said im still Using a tube03 with muses02( sylvania tubes - dark and rich) and one with burson v5id(ge 5654w - the soundstage) with my seconadry system and the one in work 😎 Never decided to go for Sparkos tough, maybe will do another one with Sparkos tough 😅 wonder what tubes would go with them 🙂 One way or another great preamp. I changed the power supplies in them, and also thinking about swaping some internalls 🙂 cant recommend them enouh.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому +1

      They are harder to find now. Going to order a second one through parts express.

    • @popculture70
      @popculture70 Рік тому

      What model of Sylvania tubes are you using in your pre-amp? I haven't heard of those before, and I might like to give them a try.

    • @Shozimus
      @Shozimus Рік тому

      @@mykandrew Had a one flop trough Aliexpress, unit died within 40min of usage. Wach out for shady vendors !
      P.s. when we will se a Vincent SV 228 review ?😉

    • @Shozimus
      @Shozimus Рік тому +1

      @@popculture70 Sylvania 5654w/6ak5w smoke glass Black plate. They where a pain in the as to get, but sound great 🙂

  • @yogiwp_
    @yogiwp_ 6 місяців тому

    Played with Burson V6 Vivid & Classic, and Sparkos 3602. Yes they do make a difference. Didn't quite like the V6 Classic tho.

  • @chuckmaddison2924
    @chuckmaddison2924 Місяць тому

    I do know they do make low noise versions.

  • @ranbymonkeys2384
    @ranbymonkeys2384 Рік тому +3

    One more thing, you can change these things just as much as op amps do but you will NEED to get out of your comport zone. You guessed it, CAPACITORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      That's next for me 😀

    • @dingskydongsky
      @dingskydongsky Рік тому

      coupling caps, power supply caps make a huge difference. take a look at Humble homemade hifi

    • @TC-bz8sm
      @TC-bz8sm Рік тому +1

      Love your video and direction ! Would you and RBM make video on how to improve FX Tube03 Mk2 capacitors ? Kudos to you two gentlemen help tens of thousands people with very tight budgets to enjoy music in a much better way!

  • @paulmalbeuf9213
    @paulmalbeuf9213 Рік тому

    What do you know about the ART Precision Phono Preamp?

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      Absolutely nothing unfortunately.

  • @kosmicwizard
    @kosmicwizard 9 місяців тому

    I've fully drank the discrete kool-aid. Tubes don't matter so much. But I'm currently trying out a bunch of pedals that have transformers in them, and honestly, I'm only going down these rabbitholes after rolling speakers and finding massive differences in them, here's where I would spend my money to upgrade an amp.
    So, now we need to hear an audio sample of the stock IC, upgraded IC and discrete, please?
    My favourite speakers are the Celestion Alnico Blue for low wattage amps, and my favourite speakers for high wattage amps are the EVM12L & EVM12S.
    I have a Kingsley Custom Jester V2 with Sizzle mod (which is fantastic), a Hiwatt tube overdrive (which is okay), and used to have a radial tonebone, but it was absolute garbage.
    My favourite pedal company is Pettyjohn Electronics. I have 10 of his pedals, 5 of which (the lower gain ones) have the upgraded dual discrete 990 op amps in them (I'm actually curious to know the manufacturer of the ones they choose, all I know is that they are mia and sit flat like the one you showed a picture of in this video). 3 of the PJ pedals I own have a Transformer in them, and one of those transformers is a Jensen upgrade over the stock Edcor transformers.
    Additionally, I have the Hudson (AP & Dual) Broadcasts, Bogner Oxford fuzz, JHS Colourbox v2, Greer SOMA '63, Catalinbread formula 51, and finally a Stephenson stage hog that has both a tube and a transformer in it.
    Im really curious of the results of having a shootout tomorrow at the jam space to see if I have any clear favourites. Cheers.

  • @Douglas_Blake_579
    @Douglas_Blake_579 6 місяців тому

    Most common outcome of repeatedly swapping op-amps?
    Broken sockets. They're not made for repeated replacements. They are installed for failure prone components and the expectation is they will be swapped once or twice in a product's lifetime. Most sockets fail after abut 5 or 6 pull-replace cycles.

  • @bardicdad
    @bardicdad Рік тому

    I see a lot of talking videos describing the sound quality. I see few videos proving it with sound comparisons. You should consider running sound comparisons.

  • @peterlarkin762
    @peterlarkin762 Рік тому +2

    There's nothing weird or tinfoil hat about why opamps change your sound... Theyre low signal amplifiers... And all sound a little different because they are different circuits. The more resolving & noise free your system is, the more youll hear a difference. Im not a big spender, so my preamp has 6 opa2134's. I have built a few discrete circuits too as low gain buffers but they just dont sound as good! P.S. Even though opamps have really good power supply ripple rejection and low noise, they perform so much better with a really good power supply with low noise. Then you enter the world of power decoupling capacitors! Long story short:... X7R 0.1uf ceramic caps at the opamp pin, from both rails to power ground. AND 2 47uf Nichicon KZ capacitors another inch or so away...PER OPAMP. I have spent a few years experimenting, and this works well for me.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      I will have to try switching capacitors as I become more comfortable with soldering.

  • @justinmanny86
    @justinmanny86 15 днів тому

    Anybody else here get a Fosi v3 monoblock amp and received 2 Muses02 chips? I bought 2 amps so they sent 2 chips, does anyone know if the two Muses02 chips are both supposed to be installed into one amp? Or is one chip for each amp? The reason I'm asking is because when you open the amp, there's 2 chips that look like they can be replaced by the Muses02. I know this is probably stupid, but this is my first time using an opamp

    • @rupertherbert594
      @rupertherbert594 9 днів тому +1

      I think you'll need four of them, two for each amp, because the V3 monoblock works using both.

    • @justinmanny86
      @justinmanny86 8 днів тому +1

      @@rupertherbert594 Yeah that's basically what Fosi said. Fosi replied back with a picture and said "The op amp in position 1 serves to convert the unbalanced signal from RCA into a balanced signal. The op amps in positions 2 and 3 are responsible for adjusting the tone. If you're looking to change only one op amp, it's recommended to replace the one in position 2. However, if you replace both op amps, the effect will be more noticeable. Positions 2,3 can be replaced with different chips. You can personally experience changing different op amps and op amps in different positions to feel the changes in the sound."

    • @rupertherbert594
      @rupertherbert594 6 днів тому

      @@justinmanny86 so this is why they sent just two of them, but I would change all 4 in the signal path, until you would use the balanced path so maybe you'ĺl just need to change only one per amp. I think is just a matter of testing what the difference is, and please, let us know how the sound change with the Muses, thanks

  • @LapuertadeHal
    @LapuertadeHal 9 місяців тому

    excelente

  • @user-ml4xh9fh7q
    @user-ml4xh9fh7q 5 місяців тому

    The measurements are the end all be all crowd are missing a huge piece of the auditory puzzle. Their loss and more awesome sounding parts and equipment for us I guess. It is impossible to measure how instruments are separated in the soundstage and how well they are placed and how well defined they are. Again more for us.

  • @pat_hcn
    @pat_hcn Рік тому +3

    Gone are the days when there were forums with actual technical exchanges and discussions. Nowadays it's just subjective "reviews" and "expert" opinions of people who don't understand circuits and topologies. Manufacturers like TI publish data sheets for a reason and engineers design their circuit based on that info (or can be other way around).
    So, yeah. Keep fooling yourselves you hear some magic after swapping opamps.
    Upgrading your speaker's filter caps will give you more audible changes.

  • @ranbymonkeys2384
    @ranbymonkeys2384 Рік тому +2

    You should go back and look at the video you made when you first started learning and look at the difference in the knowledge, production, content, and just how much you have gotten better in such a short period of time. When in doubt, just look at the proof.

    • @graceMASTER777
      @graceMASTER777 Рік тому

      He's literally replied to every other post in the same time frame ....but not yours....Shows how people don't like to be reminded...LoL

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      @ranbymonkeys Thanks for the love, bro. I have tried my best to sponge from you and expand my horizons. I am happy with the results.
      And rD sometimes I don't see or get notified of every single comment on the 200+ videos I have produced, but I do get to them.

    • @graceMASTER777
      @graceMASTER777 Рік тому

      @@mykandrew ...appreciate it a lot & can totally understand your situation. However what I said was in good faith and on a lighter note completely. Hope you didn't get that wrong & it's surely a great feat to see you where you are today. Cheers.

  • @tomasmartinsolis9020
    @tomasmartinsolis9020 Рік тому +1

    Its supposed that components make the difference, to be honest I preffer the classic analogue sound, I mean classic integrated amplfiers with no digital iimputs, you can use a quality Bluetooth receiver made by project with quality rca cables to get a great sound through your ampllifier of your streming devices like móviles phones or laptops, anyway thsnk you for this video

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      Hay muchas manera de oir la musica que te gusta. La unica cosa que es importante es si a ti te gusta como suena tu systema!

  • @daysofgrace2934
    @daysofgrace2934 10 місяців тому

    Burson Audio V6 classic

  • @SuperSeltzer
    @SuperSeltzer 8 місяців тому

    I swear by op-amps, including chip op-amps. People scream discrete like that's the only and best way. No, I like op-amps. On-board discrete sucks because you are stuck with it and can't change the sound. The reason op-amps were born in the first place was to make audio components modular. Before the advent of op-amps things were discrete. We are going full circle here. And discrete op-amps aren't the only good ones. There are lots of cheap op-amps that are very good.

  • @davestevens4193
    @davestevens4193 9 місяців тому

    I'd say no op amps are the key to better sound quality

  • @mikepxg6406
    @mikepxg6406 2 місяці тому +1

    Replacing an op amp is more likely to add distortion. Equipment is designed around the opamp inside. Most people don't have enough electronic knowledge to do this. Making a difference doesn't mean better, Every mixing desk in the audio chain has gone through hundreds of NE5532. So you put in an unsuitable OPamp in a little box in your living room, you hear some high frequency noise and think it sounds better because you paid more for it, Unless you can test an improvement you are probably making things worse.

  • @jmgraydz
    @jmgraydz 7 місяців тому

    Discrete amplifiers are also op amps........ lol

    • @jmgraydz
      @jmgraydz 7 місяців тому

      But I hear what you are saying lol

  • @simonzinc-trumpetharris852
    @simonzinc-trumpetharris852 3 місяці тому

    My chinese headphone amp has top quality audio components.

  • @wyacheslavgolovkov6318
    @wyacheslavgolovkov6318 Рік тому

    трес языком почти 6 минут и умудрился ничего не сказать

  • @mikemines2931
    @mikemines2931 11 місяців тому

    Just avoid Chinese knock offs.

  • @you2ber252
    @you2ber252 Рік тому +3

    It's a waste of money. And time. NE5532P (0.3 USD?) is already excellent. Not tested against another OPAMP, but against STRAIGHT WIRE, and using high quality full band pro monitors... This is of course my own pesonal experience, so free to disagree and spend time and money as you wish.

    • @MichaelBeeny
      @MichaelBeeny Рік тому +2

      Warmer usually means, loss of detail. Fuller means added harmonics. Valves basically. Anyone that thinks valves are better, needs a different hobby. All this stuff is snake oil, Afterall spending double the price on a upgrade gotta sound better, has it not?? Why not just buy something better in the first place. A preamp is a piece of wire with gain. It should not, and cannot add ANTHING but gain, if it does its crap (in HiFi terms) It can add stuff you personally like but that's not the definition of HiFi. The mixing desk was, and still is, full of 5532/4, It is cheap but replacing them with snake oil does not and will not make it sound better. You cannot get better when all it should offer is gain. The only way a different IC can REALLY make an amplifier sound different, better, if it offers impedance matching on the input and/or the output that the amplifier is connect to. Thats in the design, not in swapping.
      Something to take care with when swapping chips, the average IC uses about 5-10mA. Some of these discreet IC replacements draw 30-50mA which can overload the power supplies that feed them.

    • @noneofyerbeeswax8194
      @noneofyerbeeswax8194 3 місяці тому

      Heresy! How are you still alive after leaving a sensible comment on an audiophool video? Unbelievable…
      I like LM833 better.😊 Because they -sound richer and warmer- tend to have less DC offset and lower bias current.

  • @Stikibits
    @Stikibits Рік тому

    Do they make a difference to sound?
    Doesn't do a sound demo.
    Great load of words.

    • @mykandrew
      @mykandrew  Рік тому

      What would you get out of a sound demo through a phone?

    • @Stikibits
      @Stikibits Рік тому +1

      @@mykandrew What do you get out of making inaccurate assumptions?
      Why do hi-fi-types always shun any type of scrutiny?
      A lot of mumbo-jumbo and snake-oil in the hi-fi world, isn't there?
      I just wish you hi-fi people would put your money where your mouth is, for a change.
      Why don't sound engineers and electrical engineers agree with hi-fi people much of the time, hey?

    • @popculture70
      @popculture70 Рік тому

      There are quite a few videos on youtube like this one showing graphical and audio differences between various opamps ua-cam.com/video/zS7Z64YsgOg/v-deo.html

    • @Stikibits
      @Stikibits Рік тому

      @@popculture70 This isn't one of them.