OpAmps and specs vs preference

[leo]

The only other niggle is the dac uses just a +15v single rail on the output stage supplies so its a case of finding something suitable with low noise and distortion on such a limited supply, of course an external supply could be added as an option but it then adds more cost
The dacs a voltage out type so something simple can be tried out without any I/V. Something similar to the Pass D1 maybe a laugh , could try both small bipolar or jfets

[StanleyB]

I have tried discrete output stages, including the Burson ones, against a variety of opamps. I am yet to be convinced that a discrete stage would give more bangs for bucks and allow for anywhere near the same level of flexibility as opamps do.

[leo]

I have tried discrete output stages, including the Burson ones, against a variety of opamps. I am yet to be convinced that a discrete stage would give more bangs for bucks and allow for anywhere near the same level of flexibility as opamps do.

With this dac I'd agree! most op-amps work better on the available low voltage supply found in the 7220/Caiman too

[StanleyB]

With this dac I'd agree! most op-amps work better on the available low voltage supply found in the 7220/Caiman too

There is lies the secret of the TC-7520 and Caiman. They are the first serious DACs that allow for the use of some very high-end opamps and regulators without having to worry about where the power feed to these alternative components would have to come from. That sort of flexibility normally cost a fortune to implement.

The AD826 (thanks Leo that I have been testing is noticeably superior to the LM4562NA, and about the same as the LM4562HA in terms of bass depth and controlled tops. Only the THS4032CD can do better in the bass, but it is far more expensive, near to unobtainable in perfect working condition, and won't work without an adapter PCB.

[Gazjam]

+1 for the AD826.

I've tried all the "usual suspects" and found this one gets the closest to stripping the hifi away and just lets you enjoy the music.

Didnt get on with the 4032..found it too harsh in the treble.

[Peter Galbavy]

I have ten more AD826's in as of yesterday. Between 6 and 8 are for Stan. Anyone else want the other 2 or 4 ? (I have two for myself from a previous order).

I also ordered samples from TI for the 2107 and 2111 - 4 of each - and I got a shipping notice, so hopefully will be able to test those *and* have saved between £40 - £80 (both those list as about £20+VAT on Farnell's web site).

I now really really need a free weekend to play. I want to build a playlist of about 3-4 tracks, 15 minutes maybe, and get used to it before switching opamps and comparing. But my musical tastes keep changing with my moods. Oh for a scientific mind...

[StanleyB]

I also ordered samples from TI for the 2107 and 2111 -

What's the exact product code? I can't find any info on the 2107 and 2111. There are a couple of letters missing at the beginning I suspect.

[Peter Galbavy]

I meant to OPA2107 and OPA2111 - the Burr Brown things I think. Hang on...

The OPA2107 (which has been mentioned by others):

http://focus.ti.com/docs/prod/folder...t/opa2107.html

the OPA2111:

http://focus.ti.com/docs/prod/folder...t/opa2111.html

I didn't really check spec on the OPA2111 to see if it was suitable, I just added it to the free samples basket while I was there.

[Butuz]

I have ten more AD826's in as of yesterday. Between 6 and 8 are for Stan. Anyone else want the other 2 or 4 ? (I have two for myself from a previous order).

Hi Pete.

I'll take 2 off yoru hands of that is OK! Let me know how much.

Are the AD826 a straight swap into a 7520? I.e no other work needs to be done?

Cheers

[StanleyB]

I didn't really check spec on the OPA2111 to see if it was suitable, I just added it to the free samples basket while I was there.

Let us know how you get on with them. I had a quick check of the specs. The noise figure is a bit too high for me, and the lowish slew rate is also not my cup of tea for use in the Caiman. Should be fine in the TC-7520 though.