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Lelouch25 t1_j9h7dh0 wrote

I also find it hard to upgrade from the zen Dac v2. It’s so good. Tip is, they do sound better with a 5V 2amp brick. 😇

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rndll t1_j9hcn3z wrote

I have tried using USB and a power brick (from my Zen Can) on my Zen Dac V2. A/B testing, 1 week on, 1 week off... I absolutely hear no difference. 🤷

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kinghutfisher t1_j9ilahr wrote

Same here and I'm happy about it as it means I don't have to spent for a brick xD

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mghazik OP t1_j9j5jaa wrote

There is a difference only for power output. 5v adapter provides louder sound. I bought 5$ chinese adapter what more than enough.

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rndll t1_j9k0lvg wrote

USB 3.0 already provides 5V. As I said already, tested them both on and off a brick, there's no difference that I can perceive be it sound quality or loudness.

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mghazik OP t1_j9k1i8a wrote

According to manual zen dac v2 gets < 1.5W via USB power and 5V via DC adapter. You're doing something wrong because I definitely hear different levels of loudness, it's about 30%. Keep in mind the Zen Dac does not always automatically switch to dc power but always sounds quieter when dc is plugged off.

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rndll t1_j9ke9ph wrote

Just because I don't hear a difference doesn't mean I'm doing something wrong. You may hear a difference which I don't refute. I'm just telling it as it is on my setup even with the official Ifi adapter and there's no difference whatsoever, nada. Maybe stop trying to invalidate others?

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mghazik OP t1_j9j59pj wrote

Zen Dac v2 is used for 100% with 5v adapter and balanced output but I'm still not sure it's good enough for Sundara.

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Lelouch25 t1_j9jmqqt wrote

I think it’s a perfect pairing to the Sundara. It adds that extra warmth to the clinical planar.

I do wonder myself though if something like the SMSL SU9 MQA will have more clarity and separation.

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mghazik OP t1_j9jot5b wrote

The Sundara isn't sibilance or harsh, I like more how it shines with SH8s. Honestly, I'd bought the warmth Zen Dac especially for the harsh BD 770 Pro before found out about Sundara)

Curiosity leads to audiophilia..

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