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Sonic Frontiers SFD-1 MK2 Vintage DAC Measurements

Discussion in 'Source Measurements' started by purr1n, Sep 14, 2023.

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  1. purr1n

    purr1n Desire for betterer is endless.

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    From memory, this specific SFD mk2 unit (with the Telefunkens and PCX upgrades) sounds like a scaled down Rockna Wavedream, even more than the Wavelight. There are tonal similarities from mids to highs (not as slammy or hefty), the giant headstage (but imaging isn't quite as precise). Obviously not anywhere as resolving as the Rockna Wavedream.

    Yggdrasil A2/OG is just different. However, this unit was almost a straight drop in for the MIL-B from a tone and timbre standpoint, maybe a bit more air with the Telefunkens. The MIL-B is has more heft and is more resolving, but surprisingly not by much. I am actually surprised how good this ancient DAC holds up (the one I owned before with the level 1 mod wasn't anywhere as good, but I think there could be more differences in the modules). I may drop in some Soviet 6N23P-EV for a darker sound.

    I believe @Carlos CPA may have moved up (reason why he sold this fine unit). Maybe he can chime in a bit.
     
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    purr1n, Oct 16, 2023
    #21
  2. purr1n

    purr1n Desire for betterer is endless.

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    No idea. Everything is stuck inside the black box filled with epoxy. I am starting to believe that the modules do sound different with the A sounding more neutral and the non A sounding more organic.
     
    purr1n, Oct 16, 2023
    #22
  3. chesebert

    chesebert Acquaintance

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    I may have the A version as mine sounds very neutral from AES/EBU - especially for a tube dac.

    Having said that, I have switched out my SFD for Newontech dac7. It has a similar sound profile as ET3 and pairs really well together - better than SFD in my system.
     
    chesebert, Oct 16, 2023
    #23
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