I also have this DAC (non-USB version) and it is one of the better DAC's for the money. May sound better after some break-in time. Others have reported improved performance when connected to a "USB converter" such as the Trends UD-10, rather than directly via USB. Also, different tubes will affect the sound...detail, smoothness, etc.
Steve, this DAC uses one of the CM-1xx chips, which I believe are worse than the popular TI PCM270X chips. Don't recall which one maybe 108? The orginal Paradisea USB used the CM-102.
Steve, this DAC uses one of the CM-1xx chips, which I believe are worse than the popular TI PCM270X chips. Don't recall which one maybe 108? The orginal Paradisea USB used the CM-102.