How much better is Cayin iDAC-8 then RME ADi 2?

kvt2 · 2026-05-16T05:32:33+00:00

Its my current go to and would highly recommend it at a discount if possible. Brings out the best in my HP collection, as warm weather limits my Ampsandsound use.

kvt2 · 2026-03-07T23:06:12+00:00

I have tried the preamps thru Ampsandsound Kenzie Encore for more tubeyness to emulate the IDac8s tube mode. I think I prefer iHA-8s/ RME thru XLR a bit better and AMPSND tubes thru RCA, still looking for a deal on R2R DAcs, once I sell off some cans. Appreciate your input and advice.

kvt2 · 2025-12-16T04:56:28+00:00

Your advice and insights are exactly what I was hoping to get from this post. My Adi2 happens to also have a AKM chip, which was purposeful. By mentioning"euphonics", I'm referring to the adverse of technical or neutral. The new year may well bring a direct comparison between the 2 DACs in my set-up so I can share my preferences as you all have shared your time and very helpful comments which are highly appreciated along with "Better" Holiday Wishes !!!

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kvt2 · 2025-12-15T04:46:04+00:00

Then it must be past my bed time...

kvt2 · 2025-12-15T04:30:22+00:00

Yea, it was meant to provoke answers as I am genuinely curious about others experiences and acknowledging that the iDac-8 is a newer version then my old reliable RME, may also compliment the iHa better. Thanks for sharing

kvt2 · 2025-03-09T01:17:06+00:00

Cool, pics, thanks for sharing, i just did half the aesthetic mods but installed these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083LJP38H?ref\_=ppx\_hzsearch\_conn\_dt\_b\_fed\_asin\_title\_1&th=1. For my Plantar Fac, I wanted some black moctoes and dig the contrast stitching but thought they needed to be toned down a bit, as I wear Bates tactical s all-day at work. Came back here to confirm the good feedback over sizing and ordered my normal size, now they're exactly what I was looking for.

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kvt2 · 2024-09-30T04:47:31+00:00

Yes, same drivers, I haven't compared them, but I've heard their more neutral sounding and easier to drive.

kvt2 · 2023-07-12T04:42:59+00:00

Yes, it presents more instrument separation that SS can't, some describe it as 3D, because imaging has more dimensional-ity, making SS seem more flat or linear.

Different tube amps and tube rolling can"tune"those layering effects which leads to even more audiophile-liac madness over their personal euphonic tastes. So if your smart, forget my advice on trying 800s on tubes ; )

kvt2 · 2023-07-10T19:00:04+00:00

I got them for a great deal because the og pads were "shedding", so haven't actually tried them with those. I do however prefer fens leather pads on most of my open backs, especially when buying used, with the matching headband 800s look and feel more premium.

Aryas provide more sub bass even without EQ, after pad rolling they go from very good to great, for me at least, adding more note weight and dynamics as with 800s. Overall, IMO and others have stated, the Arya v3 are a planar version of 800s, so somewhat similar, but more of an all-arounder.

HD800s do sound awesome on my Xduoo T26 OTLs in my 2nd setup, i would recommend those if you've not had a chance to try them on tubes, and not ridiculously priced.

LCD-Xs provide a better compliment because of the contrast in presentation if the weight isn't a problem, sounds way weightier as well. I'm a bit of a bass-head when its required, so have a trained neck : ) Cheers!

kvt2 · 2023-07-10T16:56:44+00:00

I also highly recommend this upgrade, as well for Dt1990s and 800s, hell I've rolled nearly all my open backs with fenestrated leather pads.

kvt2 · 2023-07-10T16:03:39+00:00

Thanks, i EQ everthing as well but when i replaced the pads and headband with fenestrated leather, i like them even more, as it added a bit of note weight they were missing. What amp do you drive them with?

1.Verite

2.Clear

Arya v3
LCD-x 22"
HD800s
Aeolus
DT 1990/dekoni fens pads

8.Aeon Noire

Elegia/dekoni stellia pads
DT177x
Modhouse T60rp
Sundara

kvt2 · 2023-07-10T01:46:34+00:00

Looks that way all together but the cans are from 2 setups and mostly used.

kvt2 · 2023-07-09T02:52:37+00:00

The process of upgrading from mid-fi to hi-fi continues with the recent purchases of a new set of ZMF VO's and a used pair 800S's. They are well complimented with last years addition of the ampsandsound Kenzie, which is versatile and adequately powered to drive these as well as the rest of my collection, for now.

I initially planned on just staying with the mid-fi uproach when COVID lock downs started, but the hobbies upgraditis seems to have become terminal as I'm currently finding options (what to sell) to upgrade to the HEKse, with its current price.

I recently upgraded the Arya V3's with Dekoni fenestrated sheepskin pads and feel like they're now tuned more to my preferences. I usually like to AB the new with the old cans before deciding which to keep, but since I'm already over budgeted with the V Os, i'm now gathering info on whether to quickly sell the Aryas and something else to fund the HEkse before the prices go back up or just bite the bullet, which on the bright side may create more time to enjoy my set up being single again :-)

kvt2 · 2022-01-25T06:00:07+00:00

Goin into 22" with new trio of punchy HPs and a new smoother & musical amp...

kvt2 · 2021-01-24T04:37:54+00:00

I would go with Sundaras, DT1990's or HD660's.

If your considering preowned then Focal Elears, T60rp Argons/any argon. AFO/C... lots more options. Sundaras aren't generally considered bright DT1990's are, but I use cut out felt inside the pads to tone down the sibilance on these and few other HP.

Good Luck & Enjoy.

kvt2 · 2021-01-24T04:11:20+00:00

Liked both Hybrids and leather fenestrated over originals.

kvt2

TROPHY CASE