I just added a M1200 pair to an Eversolo DMP-A8. Since I use Roon Nucleus, ( could add airlens ) would I have better sound from a PSA Stellar GainCell DAC preamp? Anyone have any swap advice?
I tried the Eversolo and its good, but I would prefer the SGCD and Airlens combo. Simpler, more reliable and cleaner sound. But that’s just my opinion and I’m certainly no expert. I just want good sound day-in day-out without fail or issue.
I had the GCD/M1200 combo for awhile and am now running a DMP A8. I chose the A8 because, among other features/functionality, it uses the latest AKM chip set and I wanted a 1 box streamer/DAC with native Qobuz and Radio Paradise support.
In my experience the GCD/M1200 combo was good for instrument separation in both width and layered depth that might also be described as neutral. For me the presentation felt somewhat artificial - maybe too much first row for my tastes, which I learned through this experience that I didn’t like. The M1200 did provide an effortless presentation, very relaxed. If that’s your preferred presentation you might be quite happy. When available a GCD can be had for ~$900. At that price I think it’s a really good DAC/Pre.
For me, the GCD, purchased used, was intended to be a placeholder till it was replaced with a BHK pre. But as I gained experience with preferences, equipment, room-treatments, set up and the limits of my ears I came to realize I was committing a whole lot more money to quickly diminishing improvements so I pulled up short. Others may have a different opinion but, at that point, I felt as though the M1200 would forever be held back by the GCD. So I decided to start over - a valuable but expen$ive lesson.
Was: BS Vault 2i > GCD > M1200 > M4 Sapphires (BJC IC, Audio Art Cable SE2 speaker cables)
Is: DMP A8 > Schiit Lyr > Schiit Aegir > M4 Sapphires (same BJC IC, Moon Audio Blk Dragon speaker cables)
I like the A8 but doubt I’d ID the difference between it and GCD DAC in a blind test.
Besides the equipment differences the sofa bed was added to the space at the same time as I sold the GCD/M1200. Ignore the free standing panels. They’re never deployed as shown. It’s just how they were intended to be used.
Since everything has changed you can take my experience for what it is but I think the GCD/M1200 would present the same regardless of the room changes.
