The Live Harmony Micro DAC challenges the notion that exceptional R2R DAC performance requires a hefty price tag. This compact device delivers a surprisingly rich and detailed listening experience, packing impressive features into a smaller, more affordable package than its larger sibling, the R2R Deck. While some compromises were made to achieve its lower price point – such as omitting a large linear power supply and a remote control – the Micro DAC retains a robust set of digital inputs and offers balanced XLR outputs.Despite its size and cost-cutting measures, the Micro DAC shines sonically. Reviewers praise its neutral sound signature with a touch of warmth, excellent detail retrieval, and dynamic performance. It handily outperforms older R2R DACs in various aspects, offering a compelling alternative to more expensive models. This review will delve into a comprehensive comparison against competitors, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it truly earns the title of "Best R2R DAC Under $1000."
Pros And Cons
- Affordable price ($995)
- Mostly neutral sound with slight warmth
- Great detail retrieval
- Plenty of resolution
- Mature sound, doesn't emphasize sharp edges
- Full-bodied, lush tones with rich inner texture
- Fast, snappy transients
- Good dynamics, doesn't sound flat
- Great soundstaging, spacious three-dimensional soundstage
- Three-dimensional tones within the soundstage
- Deep, weighty, authoritative bassline
- Realistic and natural sound
- Smaller external wall wart power supply instead of a large linear power supply
- No remote control (available separately)
- Reduced connectivity options (lacks AES/EBU input)
- Only balanced XLR outputs, no single-ended outputs
- Smaller display, slightly different menu browsing
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Live Harmony Micro DAC arrives in a compact package, a significant departure from its larger sibling, the R2R deck. The smaller chassis immediately communicates a sense of affordability. While the build quality remains high, certain features have been sacrificed to achieve the lower price point.
Notable changes include the omission of a large linear power supply; instead, it utilizes a smaller external wall-wart power adapter. The absence of a remote is another cost-cutting measure, although one can be purchased separately. Overall first impressions are of a well-built, albeit simpler, device.
Connectivity and Features
While some compromises were made, the Micro DAC retains a robust set of digital inputs: USB, optical, coaxial, and even I2S. The omission of AES/EBU input is understandable given the price and size constraints; it's a feature most users likely won't miss.
On the analog side, the DAC features balanced XLR outputs but lacks single-ended RCA outputs. This is a key consideration, as your amplifier or preamp must have balanced inputs to utilize this DAC effectively.
Sound Quality and Performance
The sound signature is largely neutral with a touch of warmth, primarily noticeable in the mid-bass and midrange. This contributes to a pleasant and full-bodied listening experience without being overly colored.
Detail retrieval is excellent, exceeding that of older, more affordable R2R DACs. The Micro DAC exhibits speed and precision in its transient response, offering a lively and dynamic performance without harshness or excessive edge.
Comparison with Competitors
Compared to the Topping D90S, the Micro DAC offers a more effortlessly natural and richer sound, especially noticeable with vocals and acoustic instruments. The Topping D90S might appeal to those who prefer a cleaner, more focused presentation.
In comparison with older R2R DACs like the Denafrips Ares II, the Live Harmony Micro DAC significantly outperforms it in dynamics, resolution, and overall clarity. The Micro DAC also surpasses the Musician Draco and Pegasus (original models) in these areas.
Comparison with Holo Audio Cyan 2
While lacking a direct comparison with the Holo Audio Cyan 2, the reviewer recalls similar characteristics: rich midrange, natural tonality, and a spacious soundstage. However, the Live Harmony Micro DAC offers more features and a lower price.
The Cyan 2's automatic input selection was a drawback, while the Micro DAC allows for manual selection, providing greater user control and flexibility.
Comparison with Live Harmony Deck and Conclusion
Compared to its more expensive sibling, the Live Harmony Deck, the Micro DAC delivers approximately 90-95% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. The larger deck offers a slightly more expansive soundstage and improved detail.
Adding a better power supply or the Live Harmony micro DDC can enhance the Micro DAC's performance, but it won't entirely bridge the gap to the larger model. The Live Harmony Micro DAC presents exceptional value for its price and overall performance, making it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality R2R sound without breaking the bank.