Opa1612 vs sparkos sound quality. I did an A/B comparison to LME47920 (metal cans), burson V5i, V6 and also the Sparkos Pro discrete op-amps on one of my DAC's. 00-PAIR TWO Sonic Imagery Labs 990Enh-Ticha Discrete OpAmp API VTV Amplifier $ 132. Op amps do differ in their distortion profiles. Burson has nailed it this time with the V5i. The lows were nicely rendered with a little bit of smoothness over the clinical sound from the LM6172. First, the Sonic Imagery 990 ENH from last review: Jun 7, 2016 · Sound Quality Disclaimer: 1. Dec 5, 2020 · The sound is good: there isn't the stridency of the OPA1612 however there is a slight, overall softness to the sound. Tested with DSD512 and PCM44. Problem is, i don't buy into the discrete opamps anymore. Now, I do run Burson Audio’s V6-OPA-D Classic in my sAp-10 balanced headphone amplifier, as the primary op-amp. This feature, in combination • audio·phile: a person with love for, affinity towards or obsession with high-quality playback of sound and music. LME49720 vs OPA1612 vs Other cheap ones on my radar - OPA2134PA, OPA1612, LM4562NA. Whoever started this channel it's a complete scam and a racket that you got people hanging on measurements instead of listening to the item. The xlr input and the trigger are two great additional features, as is the nice and efficient enclosure, however the mono is not true mono, and the 13 db of sinad lost is a bit disappointing, especially given a boost certainly not exceptional in power. Our newest product that combines vacuum tube sonics with our SS2590 discrete op amps. SQ was about the same as other ESS-based dacs in that class. Many people in the thread mentioned switching out the opamps with a boutique number from Sparkos Labs or Burson Audio. May 23, 2018 · Sparkos should perform better than v6. Other than that, it seems almost identical to the Maverick Audio D1. This device comes in a PRO 6 pin package. Sonic Imagery doesn't show the prices but I found some on ebay for US $69. 1 Conclusion: More bass wider sound stage and a more holographic sound. Jul 5, 2006 · IIUC the folks at Sparkos designed the board for Allo or they collaborated on it. WOW! I hate Sabre DAC sound, tried many and they all upset me with their high end and slightly V shaped sound. Jun 30, 2016 · A few days ago, I did a comparison for JRC NE5534, Burson V6 Vivid Classic and a Sparko SS3602 installed in a Burson Fun headphone amp, every A/B-test were done with a DIY stereo switch for instantly swapping between the simultaneously powered amps and compairing with my own DIY assembled LBC amp with a V6 Vivid and Sparko discrete voltage regulators SS7815 and SS1117-15, that will replace the May 9, 2023 · Hello together, i want to put one of the mentioned OP Amps in my amp. This shows me a better tonal balance of loud vs. Sep 30, 2010 · It is widely used in high end professional audio equipment and quite rightly so. In terms of drivability, the sparkos offered the same output levels as the LM6172. Apr 22, 2024 · Sparkos Labs is a small US company that started out making dedicated audio component parts like high-quality audio op-amps. This is most noticeable in symphonic music played by large orchestra. Musical. +125°C Ambient Operating Temperature OPA1612-Q1 device offers rail-to-rail output swing to Range within 600 mV with a 2-kΩload, which increases – Device HBM Classification Level 2 headroom and maximizes dynamic range. opa1612 opa1656($3) have thd performance better than -140db. I must test muses now. Apr 12, 2022 · The socketed version is designed to let you change out the opamps used for the balanced and unbalanced outputs. The strings sound wonky and the vocals don’t sound that smooth. Feb 10, 2024 · Thanks Amir, I was just wondering why the review was taking so long. We also have socket pins for this device as well as adapters for both single and dual DIP8 applications. I prefered the sound of my DAC with the OPA1656's hands down even over the discrete op-amps. Feb 11, 2021 · looks very similar to the eighth image from post #2 of Bel Canto's S300i/S300iu - driven by dual mono Icepower amplifier modules with switch mode power supply - go to Inside the Bel Canto S300i integrated amplifier | Audiokarma Home Audio Stereo Discussion Forums and Bel Canto e. • Superior Sound Nov 25, 2015 · LM is the best overall, it sounds the most balanced, very natural/smooth/clean, doesnt exaggerate anything but can sound lacking in impact. Jun 20, 2023 · The original OPA1612, the Sonic Imagery 990 ENH and the Sparkos SS2590 (which are different to the other Sparkos people buy for this Fosi or Aiyima amps. ) Your measurements of the OPA1612 and the Sonic Imagery 990 were the same? The OPA1612 are not exactly "cheap" but not so expensive and those discrete opamps Dec 11, 2019 · For LCDs, IPS panels have great viewing angles but poor contrast and so-so response times, TN panels have poor color range (often using temporal dithering to simulate 8-bits per channel) and poor viewing angles but good response time, while VA panels have very good contrast ratios but compromise on the color gamut and viewing angles while being ok on response time. I have a huge amount of respect and love for Burson Audio, they were essential in the content that started up this site. The combination sounds weird and off-putting, especially when it comes to the upper mids. As one would expect, the SparkoS Labs Aries Headphone Amplifier is assembled with a judicious and healthy smattering of SparkoS Labs discrete Op-Amps and Voltage Regulators. Simply remove the IC op amps from their sockets, install the discretes in their place, and then prepare yourself for audio bliss. Geshelli offer three options: TI OPA1656, TI OPA1612, or Sparkos Labs 3602. However, what it added was magical. Mar 22, 2022 · OPA1612 (soic on dil adapter board), bi-polar from input to output, again a very good opamp, which to me "sounds more balanced" top to bottom than the LME, it is just as dynamic, but just a little less obvious in the bass leading edge because the mid-range seems a little more fleshed out rich and full bodied, highs are just as good as the LME. Dec 25, 2019 · I was getting frustrated as I was reading lots of good thing about Purifi based amps. The table below details the superior performance of the Sparkos Labs discrete op amps to an array of audio grade monolithic IC op amps. I recently bought a few pieces of this amp from an otherwise reputable UK supplier. Initial impression is very satisfactory, the background is dead quiet. 000. The explainer video above illustrates the process and explains why discrete op amps are the best op amp for amplifying audio signals. I also really liked the OPA627 that I had in an audio-gd dac years ago. In my case compared to OPA1656, OPA1612, Muses 8820 and some other cheaper op-amps - V6 added more quality in every aspect: Bass became more pronounced, Vocals became more detailed and more Jan 6, 2020 · Alas, I'm an idiot. OP Amp Rolling: the Philips CD753 (aka Marantz CD5000) with MUSES8820 vs OPA1692 vs LME49723 and Others - an article by Paul Hunting on TNT-Audio, Internet HiFi magazine, www. Mar 17, 2019 · I purchased 10 OPA1656's. Opa1642 sounds a bit smoother and silky at top end but a little bit fat in the mids. Jun 2, 2019 · Of course. Sounds like those are amazing though. Gotta say, Sparkos has no hint whatsoever of the sometimes overbearing high frequency detail of IC opamps, yet provides greater inner detail and depth with very natural tonality. Bass is also fairly one-note and lacks a bit of impact, and each instrument sounds less distinct in the 5532’s congested stage than they do with better op-amps. A comprehensive comparison between OPA1612 and OPA2156 (and other opamps) could be read here: https://quantasylum. ••• More options. Jun 3, 2020 · ) This goes to show, you don’t need a huge company behind you to make quality discrete op-amps. Unfortunately, it also comes at a hefty price and so fraudsters seem to have found it another moneyspinning target. I swapped these for several different op amps including OPA1612, Burson V6 Vivid, and OPA627. So far I've bought 2 sets of opamps, just ordered a second PSU and am about to "add to cart" a third set of opamps that cost more than the amp itself. Standard opamp for that has pretty much become OPA1612. It could sound pretty good, but one could get sound just as good from IC opamp designs. This is a straight-to-the-point review, so don’t expect a long, detailed review on the sound quality. Toward that end others have praised burson and sparkos opamps and some of the ones you have mentioned, even in place of the 5532 and the other device I mentioned in my DAC. r/audiophile is a subreddit for the pursuit of quality audio reproduction of all forms, budgets, and sizes of speakers. Dec 28, 2018 · You guys are a bunch of idiots that you sit here and follow measurements to make your decisions on item the sparkos op amps sound absolutely amazing I don't care what your measurements say. I did not get paid for saying something good or bad. I preferred the Sparkos for having the smoothest and most natural treble without loss of detail. You can say I love the HD6X0 series only with tube Jul 1, 2018 · In my honest opinion V6 will be really great addition to any audio system, it uplifts sound quality in every aspect compared to other cheaper Op-Amps. Overview: All of Sparkos Labs discrete op amps are based on Lin 3 Stage topology consisting of an input stage differential pair, a gain (VAS) stage, and an output stage all biased in class A mode with two pole Feb 28, 2021 · The new breed of TI J-Fet opamps offer superior performance to that old soldier the OPA2134. Jan 30, 2019 · AB testing OPA1612 against each other. tnt-audio. I don't care about listening tests or something else, just want to use the technical better one in my amp. Nov 12, 2018 · Have not tried a Burson, but I know you have and like it. Use a simple resistor, or a J-fet with the IDSS trimmed to 3mA~5mA. I doubt I will jump up enough to try a Sparkos or Burson. 00- Jun 10, 2022 · I just got the JNOG2 AKM version, modified with a Sparkos Pro SS2590 opamp running the RCA outputs. But that does not say anything about the SQ. I think it's a matter of circuit design and implementation. Feb 11, 2021 · I'm just trying to make my digital side sound a little more like music and a little less like a recreation of music. May 19, 2017 · maybe modern production 3886 are all above average? the designs seem to take the 'typical' GBW spec as the effective minimum My guesstimate puts the safe with production variation margin local closed loop gain corner as low as 100kHz for LM3886 with a greater than 4:1 range designing for stable extra loop gain from the nice input op amp really doesn't give much 20 kHz added safe composite loop The SS2590 discrete op amp is designed to be the ultimate op amp for use in studio and pro audio applications. The review (by @Gigantic) of the Sparkos op amps reports that they made a remarkable improvement on an already good sound. Mar 28, 2020 · SparkoS Labs: The SS2590 is a better device than the SS360X series, but the main reason we chose it for the audio path is because it can deliver far more current than the SS360X can. 35 mm and balanced 4-Pin XLR, as well as line inputs and outputs on RCA connectors. The high bias currents responsible for the high current noise will cause issues in many circuits with offsets too - pretty much every stage needs ac-coupling with that sort of bias. quiet signals. A true FET input stage is incorporated to provide excellent sound quality and speed for exceptional audio performance. I purchased the OEM version XiangSheng DAC-01B instead of the DAC01A. Share. 3, Jan 15, 2022 · I bought the VTV buffers with Sparkos SS3602 op amps. Jan 1, 2019 · Their new Pure Multichannel amplifier is just beautiful! From 7 up to 12 channels of Purifi 1ET400A amps, LT3045/LT3094 regulators, OPA1612 or Sonic Imagery 994 opamps. With the 2015 HDtracks Sampler, first track cue is Sonata for 2 Violins in G Major, Op. Anyway I am finding 1612 much better . They entered the world of headphone amplifiers in 2019 with the rather large and expensive Aries. Seeing how four of them are used in this amplifier, the premium is fair bit for both. These devices also have a high output drive capability of – Device CDM Classification Level C6 ±30 mA. In comparison OPA1612 and OPA2134 also have a similar experience. Dec 20, 2023 · It appears that what started out as a cheap "what if" $129 whim is turning out to be another audiophile rabbit hole. And Sparkos can go -130db or less(according to others measurements). The pricing for these options range from $0 for the OPA1656 to $79 per opamp for the Sparkos. Close to zero DC mv at its output would enable removal of the dreaded electrolytic coupling caps which will definitely lower colouration and improve sound quality. THD+Noise vs Frequency 3 Description The OPA134, OPA2134, and OPA4134 (OPAx134) series are ultra-low distortion, low-noise operational amplifiers fully specified for audio applications. Replacements: For the 5532 the opa2211A or opa1612 as well as LT1358. Sparkos Labs has a complete line of 78XX / 79XX discrete voltage regulators that are the perfect companion to these power supplies. The “full version” (2995 USD) is also a pre-amplifier, while the “base version” (2495 USD) is a headphone amp only. This high current delivery is required for driving headphones, and also required in the input stage to drive the stepped attenuator volume control. Here are the measurements of the dual mono and with different op amps (Sonic Imagery 994, OPA1656, LM4562). 00-PAIR Sparkos SS2590 Pro Single Discrete OpAmp $ 119. Meaning depth. SS2590 has clean, sharper edges, but retains all of the holographic sound qualities I like - sound stage depth, layering, instrument separation. The TL072 isn't great IMO. SparkOS is an AOSP based rom with customizations, mainly focused on stability and most of all smoothness. PAIR OPA1612 Opamp in DIP8 adapter for VTV Amplifier Custom Buffer $ 48. Oct 10, 2023 · A small American company, which became famous for its discrete op-amps, introduced Gemini, a hybrid headphone amplifier. Feb 11, 2021 · According to the TI datasheets OPA1612 has less noise than OPA1656. Sparkos was total disappointment. Frankly, this product has some points in favor but some against it. Could it be Input buffer quality also. Thanks in Nov 2, 2010 · Try a pull-down load to the negative supply rail to force the NE5532 into class A, just a few mA will really make it sound better. Something like that. The difference I find with the OPA is now I can hear the emotion in Kravitz’s voices. I read a review which compared Burson's more analytical sound to Sparkos's more musical, so picked the latter. Jun 7, 2016 · Burson Audio is one of the handful audio manufacturers in the world who focus in bringing maximum transparency out of audio device with minimum or none flavor/coloration in sound quality. com Firstly, the inserted tape sound is far less annoying/bright before the main vocals begin. Aug 18, 2016 · Sparko’s Labs SS3602 Dual Discrete Op Amp review Today I roll the LME49720ha metal cans with Sparko’s Labs SS3602 on my headphone amp. In my system with SMPS1200, Purifi module, VTV input buffer and OPA1612 I am finally getting a decent sound. I also found the SparkOS to be more dynamic than the Ne553x with really thunderous passages being closer to real than with the stock models. OPA1612 sounds better than any transistor preamp I've ever heard and better then my own 6N6P 2 case -no barrels hold- 36kg monster preamp with a 100% double blind test win rate. The OPA2604 and AD823 are both good too, how good are you at soldering SMDs? Upgrade for XDUOO XD05 Pro While the configuration of XD05 Pro, featuring OPA1612 integrated OpAmps provides already a sonic experience of high quality, one can recognize shortcomings in instrument separation, soundstage and attack. For some background information, I invite you to read the series of articles by Douglas Self (EE Times) Op amps in small-signal audio design (part1, part2, part3, part4). It has two outputs – asymmetrical 6. There was a very analogy sound from the amp. Any chance you have some measurements of the OPA1612 compared to the Sparkos SS2590 for the regular dual mono? I was also curious how many of the SS2590 opamps are Aug 23, 2017 · But the 4mA quiescent current consumption of these audio Op Amps is unacceptable for low power operation, especially when using batteries. 2. I looked at the Slew Rate as my main Dec 9, 2019 · Home: RME ADI-2 Pro FS R BE—Neumann KH80 DSP, Arendal Sound 1723 1S Work from Home: JDS Labs Atom—Etymotic ER4SR, AKG K371, Sennheiser HD820 Measurement: Earthworks M30 (Reed R8090)—Earthworks ZDT 1021 — RME ADI-2 Pro FS R BE — REW Mar 25, 2017 · In comes the sparkos. The main audio path consists of two pairs of SparkoS Labs SS2590 discrete op-amps with a 64 step (1dB per step) relay-switched stepped-attenuator in-between them. Feels like it opened up more. These devices have 14X lower noise, 44dB better input rejection, and at least 4X better load regulation than standard IC 78XX / 79XX voltage regulators can deliver. Nov 21, 2019 · Not great current noise alas, probably unsuitable for MM phono amps as a result, but look decent performers otherwise. May 21, 2023 · The 5532’s sound congested, with a dry “mechanical” sound in which music doesn’t flow quite as well, and doesn’t sound as alive as it will with better op-amps. com/blogs/news/opa2156-hifi-in-cmos. Sparkos SS3602: This is still my favorite. Better than any op-amp in terms of transparency except their own V5 ofcourse. Amplifier Audio Measurements Let's start with our dashboard. Feb 13, 2016 · The Sparkos Pro opamps cost US $59 from the company. Our primary goal is insightful discussion of home audio equipment, sources, music, and concepts. Nov 8, 2023 · Contributors have tried a few different ones (NE5532, LM4562, MUSES02, Sparkos SS3602) with the units. And this preamp sounds MUCH better than Audio Research, Burmester and Accuphase preamps costing above €10. Whether you're a seasoned tube aficionado, or just beginning your journey into the world of high-fidelity vacuum tube sound, the Gemini is the ultimate tube headphone amplifier platform for exploring, experiencing, and customizing your very own vacuum tube-based audio experience. I paid $80 shipped for the thing, but it doesn't have any tube section. V6 has distortion of -120db(according to my own measurement). Jun 10, 2010 · From my experience these older OP/ OPA op amps all sound vaious degrees of "not-that-great" (cloudy, lacking details, taking away punch/immediateness). It absolutely sounds better than anything else Ive heard or own. I hear OPA828 is the new version of the OPA627, so I may try that one out. Both fet based opamps sounds a little bit more solid in the bass (not quantity but the imaging and the texture). Apr 21, 2019 · I found the SparkOS to have a more crisp, clean sound while the Ne553x sounded more rounded off and smoothed over by comparison. Everything that I wrote here are “IMHO” and as is. May 23, 2018 · The first time I did test with opa1642 opa2156 (precision opamp version of opa1656) opa1612. com In no case did I have too high expectations regarding the sound May 15, 2022 · LME49720 sound is boringand too light. The OPA827 for example has superior load drive,much lower distortion and miniscule DC offset. The bass then pours out and I change my opinion on the V5-OPA’s reach with respect to bass. With these upgrades, the Sparkos SS3602 op-amps undoubtedly exemplify a terrific enhancement in audio performance, making them a commendable choice for upgrades or sound customization. Feb 11, 2021 · Even AD797 or OP627 cant hold a candle vs OPA1612 in terms of SQ - the difference is HUGE! My preamp sounds best with OPA1612 for gain and OPA2192 as buffer. I can whole heartedly recommend the Sep 29, 2023 · Additionally, their robust build quality ensures a hassle-free installation process, further affirming their worthiness as a valuable addition to any audio setup. 00-PAIR OPA1656 Opamp in DIP8 adapter for VTV Amplifier Custom Buffer $ 48. Definitely recommended! Then I rolled in Sparkos SS3602 and the whole thing became more effortless and organic. Which of the two mentioned OP Amps (OPA1612 or OPA1656) is the better one, in a scientific point of view. With proper decoupling the 5532 can sound pretty good. Dec 11, 2019 · You guys are a bunch of idiots that you sit here and follow measurements to make your decisions on item the sparkos op amps sound absolutely amazing I don't care what your measurements say. This is based on my experience with the V5i-D. The top is at least as good as the OPA627; it gives up little or nothing to the OPA1612 in terms of resolution or dynamics. with just thoses caps changed. strangely its probably the most boring sounding one when paired with 400i but the best sounding with hd600 NJM has a more analytical, detailed sound but it sounds a bit thin and isnt as smooth Jul 4, 2009 · - Sparkos SS3602 - Sparkos SS2590 - Muses 01 Of course it's all about synergy with the rest of your audio chain, but testing in my Burson Funk I preferred: SS2590, SS3602 and MUSES01. Show hidden low quality content Chip Amps. One S300iu integrated amplifier | Stereophile. May 29, 2021 · The dark tone of the HD650 doesn’t go well with the Burson V5i-D. uivrqldzofuvzgagfzvfqpkisfhvcmpmpjdpssjuknnzilduiwm
