以下文章轉載自http://www6.head-fi.org/forums/showthread.php?t=161032
DAC Showdown: AQVOX USB 2 D/A vs. Benchmark DAC1 vs. Lavry Black DA10
故事之前：
大約有ㄧ年多來，如同你們眾人所知，我已經是Head-Fi網站裡最顯眼的DAC1辯護者之ㄧ， 爭論著這個特別設備的優點以及表現直到日幕西垂牛群回家...(表示時間很久)。我在哪篇討論是否犯錯？ 下面的測試報告可能是從未發生過的，在讀過之前不小心從我螢幕忽略過的，某些DAC的論點之後，我首次開始質疑，是否在與Benchmark DAC1同價位的DA轉換器裡，有著某些我知道其設計特性可以製造出好聲音的產品是可以與之匹敵的。
在許多的書寫，以及透過私人訊息叨擾固定的幾個玩家與內部的爭議之後， 我決定投入測試Aqvox，因為它有ㄧ個21天的測試期，OK，長話短說，其實我已經在12月初就訂購了，但是ㄧ個月之後它卻還沒現身，與此同時，Lavry DA10終於又供貨了， 而早期對他表現的報導還蠻令人好奇的。我咸認Aqvox已經在國際包裹遞送系統間迷失了，於是我訂購了Lavry。而就在我動身前往LA參加大型HiFi會議之前， 郵局打電話來說“你有一件來自德國的包裹”， 我驚喜的知道Aqvox抵達了， 而ㄧ場重量級的大戰於焉展開。
Fit, Finish, and Functionality: 造型塗裝與功能 BR>
The Benchmark 以及 Lavry在外部結構上無疑的非常相似， 都具備簡單的黑色金屬外殼，半U的寬度以及相同高度， Lavry大約長了幾吋，Benchmark有比較令人印象深刻的表面塗裝，並且比Lavry厚了幾倍，以及美麗的蝕刻。Lavry的前面板看起來比較ㄧ般，比DIY組裝的設備好看一級而已，少了Benchmark俗麗的Rack耳朵讓Lavry看起來比較清爽，(不過Benchmark現在可以預約不要耳朵的版本 )。Benchmark有比較好的底座，讓他有1/4”的墊高，相對來說Lavry用的則是便宜的橡膠墊，僅能使它的底部與放置的表面不接觸而已。
另方面，Aqvox is built in a full-rack width silver aluminum chassis, with impressively built sides and a fairly generous front plate. It also has nice large removable feet that lift the unit up about an inch from the surface it is placed on. It goes almost without saying that the Aqvox is a more stylish looking component that would seem equally suited to the studio or the living room.
If I had to characterize their looks simply, I would say the Aqvox is the most polished and stylish component, the Lavry the most stealthy and unassuming component, and the Benchmark the most rugged and professional component.
In terms of function, the Benchmark is certainly the most simple to operate. It doesn’t even have a power switch (which can be annoying, especially considering that the DAC must be turned off to avoid the burning glare of its’ blue power LED), and the only controls are a simple 3-position input selection switch, analog volume knob, 3-position switch to change the analog output mode, and small trim pots for fine volume control. The trim pots are rather awkward to use, being placed on the back of the unit, and needing a very small but easily torque-able screwdriver to turn. The features are pretty idiot-proof and sturdily put together. It does not have any input sample-rate indicators, nor a lock indicator. The Benchmark does have two function-indicating LED’s, one to alert for non-PCM input, and the other which remains lit unless a valid input is detected. These are both red, and while still pretty bright, are nowhere near as offensive as that power LED.
The Lavry 算是比較複雜的怪獸。他的音量控制是用3段式的開關來對電阻電路做數位控制，然後用2位數的LED來顯示數值。開關不是用來控制音量最好的方式，它會有些費勁(因此有時候會容易過度操作而錯過原來想要的音量)，並且會產生一些喀喀的聲音。旋鈕式的控制如Grace m902會是比較好的選擇。 除此之外，Lavry 繼續沿用它簡單的小開關方式來控制輸入的選擇、相位、Clock鎖定方式以及單音/立體的切換。電源開關部分在操作上也是有些可挑剔的，他她可能要用點力押才推得進去，On的位置幾乎快要跟表面平行，還好他的LED並不是閃爍式的，音量的顯示也非常容易讀取。然而綠色的“lock” LED燈位置好像有ㄧ點點的偏移，,可能會有無作用的風險，但也可能是這批Sample製造上的品管問題。, 。Lavry同時也有從44.1kHz-96kHz的取樣頻率指示LED。 also has input sample-rate indicator LED’s for 44.1kHz up to 96kHz.
Unlike the other two, the Aqvox does not have a pre-amp volume control for its’ main analog outputs, however it makes up for that with a bevy of other features. The front panel is filled by a platoon of blue buttons that are about the size of M&M’s (regular, not peanut
), which primarily control the function of the DAC chip itself. The user can select whether or not to upsample to 192kHz, or dither, and the level of oversampling, as well as the type of filter used. This is in addition to typical options like input selection and phase control. To boot the Aqvox packs a USB sound system, which includes front panel 1/4” jacks for headphones and a microphone, with volume knobs for each (though this system was not intended to be audiophile quality, and sounds slightly better than an Envy24-based PCI sound card). Both of the knobs on the unit I have rub against the chassis as they are turned, easily corrected, yet the only real flaw in the fit and finish of the Aqvox that I’ve found. The blue buttons and LED’s on the front give off a nice glow without being overbearing, adding to the attractive look of this DAC. The Aqvox includes input sample-rate indicators for all common sample rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, but does not have a lock indicator.
Sound-Related Features:與聲音相關的特性
所有這三台DA轉換器都支援SPIDF 光纖 (toslink) 以及 AES/EBU XLR 數位輸入。 Benchmark是唯一具備真實75-ohm BNC 同軸數位輸入的，其他的兩個則是用RCA， 提供比較廣泛的相容性，但在音質傳輸上並不是非常好。所有這三台轉換器都具備平衡式XLR的類比輸出，並且都是真實的平衡 (並不是指再單向的輸出上製造一個反相的訊號 )。Aqvox 以及 Benchmark 都有單端的RCA類比輸出，Lavry則沒有。 Aqvox上面的USB輸出端子 也可以拿來當籌DA轉換的輸入， 在透過電腦傳輸訊號時很方便。Benchmark 以及 Lavry 都有耳機擴大機，他們的聲音如何稍後會比較。
這三台DA轉換器在電路上的主要不同是在輸出級的部份，Benchmark使用AC-耦合的運算OP放大器，供電電路上使用便宜的 bulk電容，而Aqvox則使用AC-耦合的分立電路，並且是用大的聚苯乙烯電容，Lavry 則是使用 DC-耦合直流電路。.除此之外，Aqvox的輸出級是class-A沒有回授。 Lavry 以及 Aqvox 都有防止upsampling， 而Benchmark 則總都把輸入訊號先重新取樣到110kHz (這是我曾提及的，輸入時候所選擇取樣頻率為最佳化)。有趣的是Benchmark使用傳統的傳統的環形整流電源供應器，而Lavry 與 Aqvox 則都使用Switching Power，加上額外的整流電路板(和Meridian G08的沒有什麼不同)
System Tested: 測試用系統
Power: Monster PC1000 with Quail power cords for each device
Transport: FLAC files from EAC played in foobar2000 with no DSP’s active, and ASIO output to RME Digi 96/8 PAD
Digital Cable: DIY AES/EBU cable using Neutrik HD-series XLR connector and Mogami 110ohm cable.
Interconnects: Grover UR6 with Hosa XLR-RCA adaptors at DAC side
Headphone Amp: Veda Audio Dynahi SA (4-inputs, DACT)
Headphones: Sony MDR-SA5000, Beyerdynamic DT 531, Shure E5
Speakers: Event Project Studio 5 (biamplified monitors)
Music Heard: 所聆聽的音樂
This is not an all-encompassing list; rather these songs represent a cross-section of my listening, and include the tracks I use most heavily for testing of specific sound quality issues. Grouped approximately by style/genre/etc, and in the format artist – album - track:
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - Herbert von Karajan- Haydn Symphonien - Symphony No.104 in D, 'London'- Finale (Spiritoso)
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture - 1812 Overture, Op. 49
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Great Movie Scores - Hook - Main Theme
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Epics - Hedwig's Theme from Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone
Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9 - Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 "Choral": Allegro Ma Non Troppo Un Poco Maestoso
Hans Zimmer - Gladiator - The Battle
James Horner - Titanic - Never An Absolution
James Horner - Titanic - Death Of Titanic
John Williams - Jurassic Park - Theme from Jurassic Park
John Williams - Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back - The Imperial March [Darth Vader's Theme]
Olga Kern - Rachmaninov Transcriptions & Corelli Variations - Bach Suite From Partita E Major – Preludio
The English Consort - Telemann: Suiten - Ouverture (Suite) In C Major For 3 Oboes And Bassoon (Twv 55:c6): (Grave) - (Allegro)
Buena Vista Social Club - Buena Vista Social Club - El Cuarto de Tula
Diana Krall - The Girl In The Other Room - Stop This World
Diana Krall - The Girl In The Other Room - Almost Blue
Frank Sinatra - Classic Sinatra: His Great Performances 1953-1960 - One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)
Astral Projection - Trust In Trance - Kabalah
Hallucinogen - The Lone Deranger – Trancespotter
Infected Mushroom - The Gathering - Release Me
Infected Mushroom - B.P. Empire - Noise Maker
Prodigy - Fat Of The Land - Smack My Bitch Up
Queen - Greatest Hits I - Another One Bites the Dust
Rage Against The Machine - Rage Against The Machine - Take The Power Back
Joe Satriani - Surfing With The Alien - Crushing Day
Van Halen - Best Of Both Worlds - Hot For Teacher
Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon (MFSL) – Time
A Perfect Circle - Thirteenth Step - Weak and Powerless
Dark Tranquillity - Character - Out Of Nothing
Dream Theater - Images And Words - Metropolis--Part I 'The Miracle And The Sleeper'
Liquid Tension Experiment - Liquid Tension Experiment 2 - Acid Rain
Metallica - Ride The Lightning (MFSL) - For Whom The Bell Tolls
Nightwish - Once - Dark Chest Of Wonders
Rage - End Of All Days - Higher Then The Sky
Rage - XIII - Turn The Page
Rhapsody - Power Of The Dragonflame - Knightrider Of Doom
Running Wild - Blazon Stone - Little Big Horn
Stratovarius - Visions - Black Diamond
Settings Used: 使用的設定
我使用RMAA軟體來把所有DAC的輸出數值都調整到相同，使用Benchmark的trim， Lavry的音量控制來對應Aqvox的固定輸出。因此，Benchmark總是在calibrated模式下使用，Lavry 則總是固定在47的數值，Crystal-lock模式 (表示沒有 resampling)，phase normal, stereo, 內部的跳線設定在非平衡式的操作。Aqvox則總是把upsampling bypassed， dithering on, pulse filter, phase normal, 並且將oversampling 設在 32 (是製造商建議的，最低的設定). 這是我所能想到給予最佳音質的設定。
Disclaimer: 聲明
The thoughts posted here about the sound of these products are my own opinions, and I do not pretend for them to be fact, though if you take them as fact, you do so at your own risk. Furthermore, one must keep in their head at all times that this is a comparison of very good products, and though comments about one or the other might sound harsh within the context of this review, one must keep in mind the forest for the trees. I am not comparing a BMW to a Ford, rather a BMW to a Mercedes to a Lexus.
The Sound: 聲音
當我第一次將這些競爭者組裝好，我不經意的聽了一下，我的確發現了一些不同，但還並沒有讓我倒彈三步,，然而經過了一周的燒機之後，我真的決定認真的用比較吹毛求疵的方式來好好聆聽，在跟這些設備共同生活好幾個禮拜並且每天都聆聽之後，在我對這些新來設備的聲音開始熟悉以及如何去比較之後，不同點總算更明顯而且較能被分辨。
“GET TO THE BOTTOM LINE,
你一定會說：好阿，然後呢! 我所發現的是這兩個新機種都將他們理論的設計優點帶到實際的表現上，並且凌駕了我那德高望重的Benchmark，最明顯而突出的不同分別如下：
1) Treble refinement高音的精確性與細節： 細節? 我怎能說有東西能比DAC1的高頻細節來的更多? 好吧，我承認， Aqvox 以及 Lavry 都避開了 DAC1最被注意到的瑕疵 ，在高頻上有ㄧ點顆粒感 ，這個使高頻較豐富，但也同時讓聲音比較硬、比較粗糙並且較不精緻的聆聽感受，.我必須強調，DAC1的高頻顆粒
故事之前：
大約有ㄧ年多來，如同你們眾人所知，我已經是Head-Fi網站裡最顯眼的DAC1辯護者之ㄧ， 爭論著這個特別設備的優點以及表現直到日幕西垂牛群回家...(表示時間很久)。我在哪篇討論是否犯錯？ 下面的測試報告可能是從未發生過的，在讀過之前不小心從我螢幕忽略過的，某些DAC的論點之後，我首次開始質疑，是否在與Benchmark DAC1同價位的DA轉換器裡，有著某些我知道其設計特性可以製造出好聲音的產品是可以與之匹敵的。
在許多的書寫，以及透過私人訊息叨擾固定的幾個玩家與內部的爭議之後， 我決定投入測試Aqvox，因為它有ㄧ個21天的測試期，OK，長話短說，其實我已經在12月初就訂購了，但是ㄧ個月之後它卻還沒現身，與此同時，Lavry DA10終於又供貨了， 而早期對他表現的報導還蠻令人好奇的。我咸認Aqvox已經在國際包裹遞送系統間迷失了，於是我訂購了Lavry。而就在我動身前往LA參加大型HiFi會議之前， 郵局打電話來說“你有一件來自德國的包裹”， 我驚喜的知道Aqvox抵達了， 而ㄧ場重量級的大戰於焉展開。
Fit, Finish, and Functionality: 造型塗裝與功能 BR>
The Benchmark 以及 Lavry在外部結構上無疑的非常相似， 都具備簡單的黑色金屬外殼，半U的寬度以及相同高度， Lavry大約長了幾吋，Benchmark有比較令人印象深刻的表面塗裝，並且比Lavry厚了幾倍，以及美麗的蝕刻。Lavry的前面板看起來比較ㄧ般，比DIY組裝的設備好看一級而已，少了Benchmark俗麗的Rack耳朵讓Lavry看起來比較清爽，(不過Benchmark現在可以預約不要耳朵的版本 )。Benchmark有比較好的底座，讓他有1/4”的墊高，相對來說Lavry用的則是便宜的橡膠墊，僅能使它的底部與放置的表面不接觸而已。
另方面，Aqvox is built in a full-rack width silver aluminum chassis, with impressively built sides and a fairly generous front plate. It also has nice large removable feet that lift the unit up about an inch from the surface it is placed on. It goes almost without saying that the Aqvox is a more stylish looking component that would seem equally suited to the studio or the living room.
If I had to characterize their looks simply, I would say the Aqvox is the most polished and stylish component, the Lavry the most stealthy and unassuming component, and the Benchmark the most rugged and professional component.
In terms of function, the Benchmark is certainly the most simple to operate. It doesn’t even have a power switch (which can be annoying, especially considering that the DAC must be turned off to avoid the burning glare of its’ blue power LED), and the only controls are a simple 3-position input selection switch, analog volume knob, 3-position switch to change the analog output mode, and small trim pots for fine volume control. The trim pots are rather awkward to use, being placed on the back of the unit, and needing a very small but easily torque-able screwdriver to turn. The features are pretty idiot-proof and sturdily put together. It does not have any input sample-rate indicators, nor a lock indicator. The Benchmark does have two function-indicating LED’s, one to alert for non-PCM input, and the other which remains lit unless a valid input is detected. These are both red, and while still pretty bright, are nowhere near as offensive as that power LED.
The Lavry 算是比較複雜的怪獸。他的音量控制是用3段式的開關來對電阻電路做數位控制，然後用2位數的LED來顯示數值。開關不是用來控制音量最好的方式，它會有些費勁(因此有時候會容易過度操作而錯過原來想要的音量)，並且會產生一些喀喀的聲音。旋鈕式的控制如Grace m902會是比較好的選擇。 除此之外，Lavry 繼續沿用它簡單的小開關方式來控制輸入的選擇、相位、Clock鎖定方式以及單音/立體的切換。電源開關部分在操作上也是有些可挑剔的，他她可能要用點力押才推得進去，On的位置幾乎快要跟表面平行，還好他的LED並不是閃爍式的，音量的顯示也非常容易讀取。然而綠色的“lock” LED燈位置好像有ㄧ點點的偏移，,可能會有無作用的風險，但也可能是這批Sample製造上的品管問題。, 。Lavry同時也有從44.1kHz-96kHz的取樣頻率指示LED。 also has input sample-rate indicator LED’s for 44.1kHz up to 96kHz.
Unlike the other two, the Aqvox does not have a pre-amp volume control for its’ main analog outputs, however it makes up for that with a bevy of other features. The front panel is filled by a platoon of blue buttons that are about the size of M&M’s (regular, not peanut
), which primarily control the function of the DAC chip itself. The user can select whether or not to upsample to 192kHz, or dither, and the level of oversampling, as well as the type of filter used. This is in addition to typical options like input selection and phase control. To boot the Aqvox packs a USB sound system, which includes front panel 1/4” jacks for headphones and a microphone, with volume knobs for each (though this system was not intended to be audiophile quality, and sounds slightly better than an Envy24-based PCI sound card). Both of the knobs on the unit I have rub against the chassis as they are turned, easily corrected, yet the only real flaw in the fit and finish of the Aqvox that I’ve found. The blue buttons and LED’s on the front give off a nice glow without being overbearing, adding to the attractive look of this DAC. The Aqvox includes input sample-rate indicators for all common sample rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, but does not have a lock indicator.Sound-Related Features:與聲音相關的特性
所有這三台DA轉換器都支援SPIDF 光纖 (toslink) 以及 AES/EBU XLR 數位輸入。 Benchmark是唯一具備真實75-ohm BNC 同軸數位輸入的，其他的兩個則是用RCA， 提供比較廣泛的相容性，但在音質傳輸上並不是非常好。所有這三台轉換器都具備平衡式XLR的類比輸出，並且都是真實的平衡 (並不是指再單向的輸出上製造一個反相的訊號 )。Aqvox 以及 Benchmark 都有單端的RCA類比輸出，Lavry則沒有。 Aqvox上面的USB輸出端子 也可以拿來當籌DA轉換的輸入， 在透過電腦傳輸訊號時很方便。Benchmark 以及 Lavry 都有耳機擴大機，他們的聲音如何稍後會比較。
這三台DA轉換器在電路上的主要不同是在輸出級的部份，Benchmark使用AC-耦合的運算OP放大器，供電電路上使用便宜的 bulk電容，而Aqvox則使用AC-耦合的分立電路，並且是用大的聚苯乙烯電容，Lavry 則是使用 DC-耦合直流電路。.除此之外，Aqvox的輸出級是class-A沒有回授。 Lavry 以及 Aqvox 都有防止upsampling， 而Benchmark 則總都把輸入訊號先重新取樣到110kHz (這是我曾提及的，輸入時候所選擇取樣頻率為最佳化)。有趣的是Benchmark使用傳統的傳統的環形整流電源供應器，而Lavry 與 Aqvox 則都使用Switching Power，加上額外的整流電路板(和Meridian G08的沒有什麼不同)
System Tested: 測試用系統
Power: Monster PC1000 with Quail power cords for each device
Transport: FLAC files from EAC played in foobar2000 with no DSP’s active, and ASIO output to RME Digi 96/8 PAD
Digital Cable: DIY AES/EBU cable using Neutrik HD-series XLR connector and Mogami 110ohm cable.
Interconnects: Grover UR6 with Hosa XLR-RCA adaptors at DAC side
Headphone Amp: Veda Audio Dynahi SA (4-inputs, DACT)
Headphones: Sony MDR-SA5000, Beyerdynamic DT 531, Shure E5
Speakers: Event Project Studio 5 (biamplified monitors)
Music Heard: 所聆聽的音樂
This is not an all-encompassing list; rather these songs represent a cross-section of my listening, and include the tracks I use most heavily for testing of specific sound quality issues. Grouped approximately by style/genre/etc, and in the format artist – album - track:
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - Herbert von Karajan- Haydn Symphonien - Symphony No.104 in D, 'London'- Finale (Spiritoso)
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture - 1812 Overture, Op. 49
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Great Movie Scores - Hook - Main Theme
Cincinnati Pops Orchestra - Epics - Hedwig's Theme from Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone
Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9 - Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 "Choral": Allegro Ma Non Troppo Un Poco Maestoso
Hans Zimmer - Gladiator - The Battle
James Horner - Titanic - Never An Absolution
James Horner - Titanic - Death Of Titanic
John Williams - Jurassic Park - Theme from Jurassic Park
John Williams - Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back - The Imperial March [Darth Vader's Theme]
Olga Kern - Rachmaninov Transcriptions & Corelli Variations - Bach Suite From Partita E Major – Preludio
The English Consort - Telemann: Suiten - Ouverture (Suite) In C Major For 3 Oboes And Bassoon (Twv 55:c6): (Grave) - (Allegro)
Buena Vista Social Club - Buena Vista Social Club - El Cuarto de Tula
Diana Krall - The Girl In The Other Room - Stop This World
Diana Krall - The Girl In The Other Room - Almost Blue
Frank Sinatra - Classic Sinatra: His Great Performances 1953-1960 - One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)
Astral Projection - Trust In Trance - Kabalah
Hallucinogen - The Lone Deranger – Trancespotter
Infected Mushroom - The Gathering - Release Me
Infected Mushroom - B.P. Empire - Noise Maker
Prodigy - Fat Of The Land - Smack My Bitch Up
Queen - Greatest Hits I - Another One Bites the Dust
Rage Against The Machine - Rage Against The Machine - Take The Power Back
Joe Satriani - Surfing With The Alien - Crushing Day
Van Halen - Best Of Both Worlds - Hot For Teacher
Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon (MFSL) – Time
A Perfect Circle - Thirteenth Step - Weak and Powerless
Dark Tranquillity - Character - Out Of Nothing
Dream Theater - Images And Words - Metropolis--Part I 'The Miracle And The Sleeper'
Liquid Tension Experiment - Liquid Tension Experiment 2 - Acid Rain
Metallica - Ride The Lightning (MFSL) - For Whom The Bell Tolls
Nightwish - Once - Dark Chest Of Wonders
Rage - End Of All Days - Higher Then The Sky
Rage - XIII - Turn The Page
Rhapsody - Power Of The Dragonflame - Knightrider Of Doom
Running Wild - Blazon Stone - Little Big Horn
Stratovarius - Visions - Black Diamond
Settings Used: 使用的設定
我使用RMAA軟體來把所有DAC的輸出數值都調整到相同，使用Benchmark的trim， Lavry的音量控制來對應Aqvox的固定輸出。因此，Benchmark總是在calibrated模式下使用，Lavry 則總是固定在47的數值，Crystal-lock模式 (表示沒有 resampling)，phase normal, stereo, 內部的跳線設定在非平衡式的操作。Aqvox則總是把upsampling bypassed， dithering on, pulse filter, phase normal, 並且將oversampling 設在 32 (是製造商建議的，最低的設定). 這是我所能想到給予最佳音質的設定。
Disclaimer: 聲明
The thoughts posted here about the sound of these products are my own opinions, and I do not pretend for them to be fact, though if you take them as fact, you do so at your own risk. Furthermore, one must keep in their head at all times that this is a comparison of very good products, and though comments about one or the other might sound harsh within the context of this review, one must keep in mind the forest for the trees. I am not comparing a BMW to a Ford, rather a BMW to a Mercedes to a Lexus.
The Sound: 聲音
當我第一次將這些競爭者組裝好，我不經意的聽了一下，我的確發現了一些不同，但還並沒有讓我倒彈三步,，然而經過了一周的燒機之後，我真的決定認真的用比較吹毛求疵的方式來好好聆聽，在跟這些設備共同生活好幾個禮拜並且每天都聆聽之後，在我對這些新來設備的聲音開始熟悉以及如何去比較之後，不同點總算更明顯而且較能被分辨。
“GET TO THE BOTTOM LINE,
你一定會說：好阿，然後呢! 我所發現的是這兩個新機種都將他們理論的設計優點帶到實際的表現上，並且凌駕了我那德高望重的Benchmark，最明顯而突出的不同分別如下：
1) Treble refinement高音的精確性與細節： 細節? 我怎能說有東西能比DAC1的高頻細節來的更多? 好吧，我承認， Aqvox 以及 Lavry 都避開了 DAC1最被注意到的瑕疵 ，在高頻上有ㄧ點顆粒感 ，這個使高頻較豐富，但也同時讓聲音比較硬、比較粗糙並且較不精緻的聆聽感受，.我必須強調，DAC1的高頻顆粒
相對來說還算是少的， 我只是注意到當我有比較好的設備來比較的時候，相較於HD650，沒有比SR60更能聽到粗糙的感覺。 Perhaps a closer comparison might be the amount of harshness I’ve heard from headphone amps like the PIMETA using the AD86x0 opamp compared to the OPA6x7 in the same amp, but even that might be overstating it a bit.
然而，把這個顆粒的感覺拿掉，三者能聽到的偈差異是很小的，這會讓Aqvox 以及 Lavry 擁有比較活生以及更容易被 3-D 定位的感覺。我會以這樣的分析來說明其不同: The DAC1的音場我們用立方體的堆疊來表示，則大約是5*2*2(寬*高*深), ，現在來看Aqvox的音場，則是5*5*3，最後Lavry，我會說他是5*5*5，這結果說明了三台DAC都能夠表現同樣的寬度，但DAC1相較之下則偏淺，對於樂器前後以及上下的定位比較難抓，而Lavry則特別在每次樂器的位置準確度上都表現超前，, 而相對來說樂器前後的糧]上Aqvox 以及 DAC1就比較不行， 也因此從準確的音場中心點發射出來的聲音比較容易被Lavry具象化，我對於樂器或是主唱就是站在我面前的感覺，特別是透過喇叭來聽的時候，Lavry要好很多。
2) Control of the lowest of low bass:低頻的控制力
這是第ㄧ個我發現的大不同，雖然我認為他沒有像1)這麼明顯，特別是在鐵達尼(Titanic Soundtrack) 這樣有很多低頻的歌曲裡，The DAC1 在這些低音的音符當中並沒有減少低頻的延伸，然而低音的特色以及定位相比較之下就比較不足，你可聽到並感覺到空氣的移動，所以你知道他有"彈"到那個音符， 所以在使用DAC來聽的時候，低音則缺少點信心與力道，再一次，Lavry 在這裡取得領先， 甚至有ㄧ些 可以感覺到金屬握柄的低音要比Aqvox還低，製造出更具象與傳真的表現，也因為這個不同，讓Lavry在比較快速的低頻上面更具分離度以及獨立感，Aqvox則有些含混不清，DAC1 則更嚴重些。
3) Midrange dynamics:中頻的動態
在這裡， Aqvox 似乎可以發言了， 特別是在主唱的時候，與他的競爭者相比較，DAC1 似乎在中頻較傾向於沒有影響與說服力，看起來很像犧牲細微的動態差異來換取比較大的動態變化，我意指的是像交響樂裡面的漸強，舉例來說，在三者當中聽起來都很有力(issue #2 notwithstanding), 然而，個別的樂器表現在DAC1裡面來聽比較不栩栩如生， 而透過 Aqvox，樂器個別表現最傑出，比較有真實的感覺， 主唱再表現的時候速乎也多了一點的air，從Mercury 到帕華洛帝 Pavarotti到 Krall，可以讓Aqvox 感覺比 Lavry 或是 Benchmark來的有關聯性，不過Lavry 在重線誒器上似乎又超前，特別是民謠的樂器， 比Aqvox感覺更活生點，並且比較現代，別是比較密集的樂句，Lavry 保留了樂團裡比較精準的音色。我同時也認為Aqvox稍微多的動態對他相對較淺的音場可能會有些責任，因為中頻的動態多會讓某些樂器被推到音場前面， 你不大能夠容易的分辨它們的位置(e.g. 舉例來說喇叭在安靜的樂句感覺在後方，但當大鼓敲下來的時就突然跳到前面，不過在Lavry上面就顯的比較穩定).
However
我還是發現DAC1 在某點上面表現最好，那就是jitter resistance， 不管是用我現有的(RME AES/EBU) 或是最差的 (iHP-120 optical)， 不大容易能透過 DAC1分辨其中的差異，但是,Lavry 以及 Aqvox 兩者就受到某些程度的降級，Lavry聽起來會有ㄧ些邊，高頻會有ㄧ點點失焦。Aqvox則在低音控制上有些不行，也多ㄧ些邊，That said, both still managed to sound better (with the iHP-120) than the DAC1 did regardless of the transport. However, from what I can tell the DAC1 has the lowest variance in its’ performance, as it pertains to the amount of jitter on the input.
Built-in Headphone Amp Performance: 內建耳擴的表現
As already noted, the Aqvox’s headphone amp works only with its’ USB sub-system, not the main DAC, so it is not included in this portion of the review.
之前幾個月以來我使用DAC1內建的耳擴來當我主要而唯一的耳擴，當然我現在有很HiEnd的耳擴， 利用DAC1’s XLR 輸出來連接 (聽起來 IMO 比 RCA 輸出要好聽), the deficiencies many have spoke of with the DAC1’s headphone jacks have become clear. By comparison to my dynahi (even using Edwood’s headphone amp switchbox), 我注意到DAC1的耳擴的確聽起來薄了點，也就是說DAC1的耳擴給了你很完整的起頭(比如說 ㄧ個音的起始)，然而它的身體以及後面的延伸就減弱了，這在我跟dynahi的比較上很明顯， 或野i能DAC1的耳擴是使用很小而速度很快的電容， 放電很快所以可以製造快速的attack，但是不能夠延遲夠久到這個音符完全結束(this is not meant to be a technical point, only a descriptive analogy). This leads to a number of other performance issues relating to soundstaging, musicality, and so on, however I don’t feel the need to go into much more detail, as I feel the aforementioned issue is the root of the problem. 這並不是在說DAC1的耳擴不好，他有ㄧ些好的細節跟衝力，只是他跟時下HiEnd的耳擴不能比。(考慮到價格的話是可以被原諒的).
The Lavry’s 耳擴跟他的輸出級是一樣的，積體以及直流耦合的電路，利用這個方法重現偶像產品--Gilmore的設計。 聲音也是重現Gilmore的聲音， 特別是他非平衡式的那款dynalo，在音質或是力道上它還不到dynahi那樣的水準， 但是和Gynahi相比之下，他的缺點和我聽過的Dynalo很像(類似Headamp Gilmore Lite) Lavry’s 在低頻控制力上稍嫌薄弱，,不像.Dynahi那麼好，不過這些細節的差異相對的並不很嚴重，也就是說Lavry的耳擴是很有用的，除非你要真空管的聲音、平衡式的耳機驅動或是非常頂尖的設計.....
我希望DAC1的耳擴能夠升級到像Gilmore Lit一樣，就像Lavry的耳擴我們會想要它升級成像Dynahi, GCHA...一樣。
Neither the DAC1 nor the Lavry’s headphone amps exhibit any type of hissing or buzzing with the very sensitive Shure E5, unless turned up so high as for one to hear the DAC’s noise floor.
Final Thoughts: 最後的結論
For me, this process has been a bit of a revelatory one, in that by taking a flyer on some up-and-coming components I ended up blasting away some deeply ingrained notions about a product I have owned for some time. It has served as a warning to me to never get too caught up in the hype and marketing surrounding a product to the point where one virtually makes one’s self a mouthpiece for the business in question. I did not undertake this journey because I was tired of the DAC1, in fact if I had not ever heard these other DAC’s, I would have gone on loving the DAC1 as much as ever. Rather, I undertook this journey because I had an open mind to the possibilities, and an understanding of the design principles involved.
My final opinion on all these products is slightly mixed:
AQVOX USB 2 D/A: This is certainly a very interesting product and a bargain for European consumers. The tweakability of the DAC via the front panel, as well as the USB sound system (for those who find it useful) make this a very versatile component, and its’ good looks mean it can fit into many systems where the other two might look out of place. The sound is also quite intriguing, with the aforementioned midrange that certainly is its’ signature feature, reaching out and making itself known from the first time you listen to it. Though over the long run, I noticed that this DAC slightly trades away a little high-end detail to achieve that midrange glow. For people who listen to vocal-heavy music, I would certainly consider the Aqvox the top option. Additionally, folks who want to build their system around that midrange-y kind of sound, but don’t want to deal with some of the possible performance issues with NOS DACs would also be behooved to try the Aqvox. Though it has a very clear sound character, it is a very enjoyable character, and not one that would make you want to endlessly tweak your system to tune it out. Though it is somewhat effective at combating jitter, it doesn’t do quite as well as its’ two competitors, so this is something to take into consideration when building a system around it.
Benchmark DAC1: This is still a very good performing DAC in its own right, hopefully now its’ limitations are a bit more clear. If I was a heavy-duty professional user most concerned with pure jitter resistance, cable driving, exterior toughness and durability, I think I would still choose it over the others. However, ultimately, it does not sound quite as good as either of the competitors I have auditioned, and in an environment where sound quality trumps all, it ultimately comes in third place. Considering they are commonly available on the used market for well less than retail and that they are the smallest and most durable of these three options, the DAC1 certainly still has a few niches that make sense, like transportable use for the busy audiophile or roadie/technician.
Lavry Black DA10: 雖然這台DAC 有ㄧ些製造品質的爭議 (希望能被除去), 比如說特異的音量控制，並且缺乏RCA的輸出， 但無疑的它是我比較下最終決定的贏家 ，諷刺的是，如果Aqvox沒有延遲送貨，我可能永遠沒機會聽到。我猜想每件事事出必有因囉？ 無論如何，我發現DAC傳送了非常具暫態以及琢磨過過的聲音，優異的音場使我很快想要提升我的喇叭。The Lavry 相較之下則讓你可以將聲音再往下延伸更多，在聲音上透過轉換之後，硬是加強了更多可以聽到的標記。他真的比另外兩台機器明顯的讓我聽到了不同耳機與喇叭的差異。. 幾天前我還在苦惱是否我要選擇 Lavry 或是 Aqvox。當我瞬間了解到我可以透過選擇耳機的方式克服Lavry在聲音的連貫性上略遜於Aqvox的問題，似乎不論我怎樣使用，我都可以透過Lavry到比Aqvox更優異的音質， 這是我敲板定案的決定。
Acknowledgements:答謝
Finally, I’d like to thank Dan Gardner (dgardner) for helping me get my dynahi fixed and being a real honorable gentleman through the whole procedure, since without his help I wouldn’t have been able to do this review. He is a true asset to the head-fi community. I would also like to thank Norman Luebke of Aqvox for helping me get his DAC even through all the international postal malaise, and Doug Wessling of Sound Pure, for getting the DA10 to me on very short notice in time to make the So-Cal Head-Fi meet. I’d also like to thank Grover Huffman for donating his UR6 cables that I won at the meter and used in this comparison, as well as Dave (909) for organizing the meet/raffle. And finally Edwood, for letting me ramp up his power bill while burning all this stuff in while I stayed at his place for a week.
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然而，把這個顆粒的感覺拿掉，三者能聽到的偈差異是很小的，這會讓Aqvox 以及 Lavry 擁有比較活生以及更容易被 3-D 定位的感覺。我會以這樣的分析來說明其不同: The DAC1的音場我們用立方體的堆疊來表示，則大約是5*2*2(寬*高*深), ，現在來看Aqvox的音場，則是5*5*3，最後Lavry，我會說他是5*5*5，這結果說明了三台DAC都能夠表現同樣的寬度，但DAC1相較之下則偏淺，對於樂器前後以及上下的定位比較難抓，而Lavry則特別在每次樂器的位置準確度上都表現超前，, 而相對來說樂器前後的糧]上Aqvox 以及 DAC1就比較不行， 也因此從準確的音場中心點發射出來的聲音比較容易被Lavry具象化，我對於樂器或是主唱就是站在我面前的感覺，特別是透過喇叭來聽的時候，Lavry要好很多。
2) Control of the lowest of low bass:低頻的控制力
這是第ㄧ個我發現的大不同，雖然我認為他沒有像1)這麼明顯，特別是在鐵達尼(Titanic Soundtrack) 這樣有很多低頻的歌曲裡，The DAC1 在這些低音的音符當中並沒有減少低頻的延伸，然而低音的特色以及定位相比較之下就比較不足，你可聽到並感覺到空氣的移動，所以你知道他有"彈"到那個音符， 所以在使用DAC來聽的時候，低音則缺少點信心與力道，再一次，Lavry 在這裡取得領先， 甚至有ㄧ些 可以感覺到金屬握柄的低音要比Aqvox還低，製造出更具象與傳真的表現，也因為這個不同，讓Lavry在比較快速的低頻上面更具分離度以及獨立感，Aqvox則有些含混不清，DAC1 則更嚴重些。
3) Midrange dynamics:中頻的動態
在這裡， Aqvox 似乎可以發言了， 特別是在主唱的時候，與他的競爭者相比較，DAC1 似乎在中頻較傾向於沒有影響與說服力，看起來很像犧牲細微的動態差異來換取比較大的動態變化，我意指的是像交響樂裡面的漸強，舉例來說，在三者當中聽起來都很有力(issue #2 notwithstanding), 然而，個別的樂器表現在DAC1裡面來聽比較不栩栩如生， 而透過 Aqvox，樂器個別表現最傑出，比較有真實的感覺， 主唱再表現的時候速乎也多了一點的air，從Mercury 到帕華洛帝 Pavarotti到 Krall，可以讓Aqvox 感覺比 Lavry 或是 Benchmark來的有關聯性，不過Lavry 在重線誒器上似乎又超前，特別是民謠的樂器， 比Aqvox感覺更活生點，並且比較現代，別是比較密集的樂句，Lavry 保留了樂團裡比較精準的音色。我同時也認為Aqvox稍微多的動態對他相對較淺的音場可能會有些責任，因為中頻的動態多會讓某些樂器被推到音場前面， 你不大能夠容易的分辨它們的位置(e.g. 舉例來說喇叭在安靜的樂句感覺在後方，但當大鼓敲下來的時就突然跳到前面，不過在Lavry上面就顯的比較穩定).
However
我還是發現DAC1 在某點上面表現最好，那就是jitter resistance， 不管是用我現有的(RME AES/EBU) 或是最差的 (iHP-120 optical)， 不大容易能透過 DAC1分辨其中的差異，但是,Lavry 以及 Aqvox 兩者就受到某些程度的降級，Lavry聽起來會有ㄧ些邊，高頻會有ㄧ點點失焦。Aqvox則在低音控制上有些不行，也多ㄧ些邊，That said, both still managed to sound better (with the iHP-120) than the DAC1 did regardless of the transport. However, from what I can tell the DAC1 has the lowest variance in its’ performance, as it pertains to the amount of jitter on the input.
Built-in Headphone Amp Performance: 內建耳擴的表現
As already noted, the Aqvox’s headphone amp works only with its’ USB sub-system, not the main DAC, so it is not included in this portion of the review.
之前幾個月以來我使用DAC1內建的耳擴來當我主要而唯一的耳擴，當然我現在有很HiEnd的耳擴， 利用DAC1’s XLR 輸出來連接 (聽起來 IMO 比 RCA 輸出要好聽), the deficiencies many have spoke of with the DAC1’s headphone jacks have become clear. By comparison to my dynahi (even using Edwood’s headphone amp switchbox), 我注意到DAC1的耳擴的確聽起來薄了點，也就是說DAC1的耳擴給了你很完整的起頭(比如說 ㄧ個音的起始)，然而它的身體以及後面的延伸就減弱了，這在我跟dynahi的比較上很明顯， 或野i能DAC1的耳擴是使用很小而速度很快的電容， 放電很快所以可以製造快速的attack，但是不能夠延遲夠久到這個音符完全結束(this is not meant to be a technical point, only a descriptive analogy). This leads to a number of other performance issues relating to soundstaging, musicality, and so on, however I don’t feel the need to go into much more detail, as I feel the aforementioned issue is the root of the problem. 這並不是在說DAC1的耳擴不好，他有ㄧ些好的細節跟衝力，只是他跟時下HiEnd的耳擴不能比。(考慮到價格的話是可以被原諒的).
The Lavry’s 耳擴跟他的輸出級是一樣的，積體以及直流耦合的電路，利用這個方法重現偶像產品--Gilmore的設計。 聲音也是重現Gilmore的聲音， 特別是他非平衡式的那款dynalo，在音質或是力道上它還不到dynahi那樣的水準， 但是和Gynahi相比之下，他的缺點和我聽過的Dynalo很像(類似Headamp Gilmore Lite) Lavry’s 在低頻控制力上稍嫌薄弱，,不像.Dynahi那麼好，不過這些細節的差異相對的並不很嚴重，也就是說Lavry的耳擴是很有用的，除非你要真空管的聲音、平衡式的耳機驅動或是非常頂尖的設計.....
我希望DAC1的耳擴能夠升級到像Gilmore Lit一樣，就像Lavry的耳擴我們會想要它升級成像Dynahi, GCHA...一樣。
Neither the DAC1 nor the Lavry’s headphone amps exhibit any type of hissing or buzzing with the very sensitive Shure E5, unless turned up so high as for one to hear the DAC’s noise floor.
Final Thoughts: 最後的結論
For me, this process has been a bit of a revelatory one, in that by taking a flyer on some up-and-coming components I ended up blasting away some deeply ingrained notions about a product I have owned for some time. It has served as a warning to me to never get too caught up in the hype and marketing surrounding a product to the point where one virtually makes one’s self a mouthpiece for the business in question. I did not undertake this journey because I was tired of the DAC1, in fact if I had not ever heard these other DAC’s, I would have gone on loving the DAC1 as much as ever. Rather, I undertook this journey because I had an open mind to the possibilities, and an understanding of the design principles involved.
My final opinion on all these products is slightly mixed:
AQVOX USB 2 D/A: This is certainly a very interesting product and a bargain for European consumers. The tweakability of the DAC via the front panel, as well as the USB sound system (for those who find it useful) make this a very versatile component, and its’ good looks mean it can fit into many systems where the other two might look out of place. The sound is also quite intriguing, with the aforementioned midrange that certainly is its’ signature feature, reaching out and making itself known from the first time you listen to it. Though over the long run, I noticed that this DAC slightly trades away a little high-end detail to achieve that midrange glow. For people who listen to vocal-heavy music, I would certainly consider the Aqvox the top option. Additionally, folks who want to build their system around that midrange-y kind of sound, but don’t want to deal with some of the possible performance issues with NOS DACs would also be behooved to try the Aqvox. Though it has a very clear sound character, it is a very enjoyable character, and not one that would make you want to endlessly tweak your system to tune it out. Though it is somewhat effective at combating jitter, it doesn’t do quite as well as its’ two competitors, so this is something to take into consideration when building a system around it.
Benchmark DAC1: This is still a very good performing DAC in its own right, hopefully now its’ limitations are a bit more clear. If I was a heavy-duty professional user most concerned with pure jitter resistance, cable driving, exterior toughness and durability, I think I would still choose it over the others. However, ultimately, it does not sound quite as good as either of the competitors I have auditioned, and in an environment where sound quality trumps all, it ultimately comes in third place. Considering they are commonly available on the used market for well less than retail and that they are the smallest and most durable of these three options, the DAC1 certainly still has a few niches that make sense, like transportable use for the busy audiophile or roadie/technician.
Lavry Black DA10: 雖然這台DAC 有ㄧ些製造品質的爭議 (希望能被除去), 比如說特異的音量控制，並且缺乏RCA的輸出， 但無疑的它是我比較下最終決定的贏家 ，諷刺的是，如果Aqvox沒有延遲送貨，我可能永遠沒機會聽到。我猜想每件事事出必有因囉？ 無論如何，我發現DAC傳送了非常具暫態以及琢磨過過的聲音，優異的音場使我很快想要提升我的喇叭。The Lavry 相較之下則讓你可以將聲音再往下延伸更多，在聲音上透過轉換之後，硬是加強了更多可以聽到的標記。他真的比另外兩台機器明顯的讓我聽到了不同耳機與喇叭的差異。. 幾天前我還在苦惱是否我要選擇 Lavry 或是 Aqvox。當我瞬間了解到我可以透過選擇耳機的方式克服Lavry在聲音的連貫性上略遜於Aqvox的問題，似乎不論我怎樣使用，我都可以透過Lavry到比Aqvox更優異的音質， 這是我敲板定案的決定。
Acknowledgements:答謝
Finally, I’d like to thank Dan Gardner (dgardner) for helping me get my dynahi fixed and being a real honorable gentleman through the whole procedure, since without his help I wouldn’t have been able to do this review. He is a true asset to the head-fi community. I would also like to thank Norman Luebke of Aqvox for helping me get his DAC even through all the international postal malaise, and Doug Wessling of Sound Pure, for getting the DA10 to me on very short notice in time to make the So-Cal Head-Fi meet. I’d also like to thank Grover Huffman for donating his UR6 cables that I won at the meter and used in this comparison, as well as Dave (909) for organizing the meet/raffle. And finally Edwood, for letting me ramp up his power bill while burning all this stuff in while I stayed at his place for a week.
