Sorry for the delay. Don't peruse these forums anymore. Came across your question from google search and was shocked to see no responses. I have the Merlot Dac and Syrah server connected to an Audible Illusions L3A preamp (Class A, single gain stage, single ended circuit, tube), Pass Labs XA30.8 amp (alternating with a First Watt SIT-2) and Vaughn Barbera II speakers with Dukane Plasma tweeters. I'm off the merry-go-round of equipment auditions and trials and just enjoy my music. The Merlot is hands down the best DAC I've ever heard. Andreas Koch is highly regarded in the industry and was involved with DSD from the beginning. I suggest you do some research on his credentials. It's interesting. I rarely agree with reviewers but they have it right with this one. It matches playback sonics on par with the L3A and XA30.8. All have similar character. Incredible sonics. Highly resolving but musical, no harshness at all. Alive. Like the XA30.8, highly resolving and layered soundstage. But, only way to tell if YOU like it is to listen for yourself. As a note, it says quite a bit that you rarely see any Playback Designs on the used market. People tend to keep them. I've only seen one Merlot for sale used ever and he had two and replaced one with the new Playback Designs Dream DAC, MPD-8. Best...
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