Bushmaster Mk. II (TC-7533)

[Michaelz]

Hi, my name is Michael. This is my second post on AoS.

I have Bushmaster dac mkI and mkII. Had mkII for about a week. Compared to mkI, mkII is very special. If mkI is a very good "ordinary" dac, then mkII is an extraordinary dac. It's signal is tremendously without murkiness. It is like driving a car without rooftop. Even though I did not burn it continuously, I use the dac for 2 hours every night and some days whole morning or afternoon, and I do notice the change in sound for the better. Even though the dac sounds great with the new level of clarity and detail, I did feel the overall thin sounding in the beginning as some other person who posted here found initially in his case as well. Later one I found that the sound is became balanced. Balanced in that tiny sound of an instrument becomes tinier and big sound of the instrument becomes bigger, the sound shows its real self instead of being averaged out or compressed. I also notice another difference, with percussion instruments, piano or guitar, the initial attack may be thick and noisy ordinarily, but with mkII, the over thickness is gone, you still hear the attack and it is interesting and even musical. The Bushmaster mkII with good recording sounds quite real, makes you happy knowing something great is going on; with some less quality old recordings (such as Geseking playing Mozart) it still manages to bring out the old master's beautiful and sweet tone and touch, which is quite some surprise for me. I never knew I could be this more close to the good sound of the past.

I was happy with BushMaster mkI dac; but this mkII is really something special. For me it is total surprise. Compared to the worth of the good sound I get from it, it is as if I did not pay for it.

I use TASCAM CD200 for transport, a Spark 300B SE amp (with most tubes replaced NOS), the speakers are basically 7 PI corner horns (as described here http://audioroundtable.com/forum/index.php?t=msg&&th=18171&goto=76336#msg_76336).

[Michaelz]

Forgot to mention I use a motor bike battery. I had much smaller lithium battery pack but it did not make much difference. I would say it does seem with the battery, the bigger the better.

[brian2957]

Welcome Michael . I didn't own a Bushmaster MK1 and went straight to the MK2 . I've had mine a couple of weeks and now use a 12V car battery to power it and my Bantam Gold amp . The sound from this DAC using battery power is very good indeed . I've been listening to my system all day today and I've been grinning like a Cheshire cat all day . In short , I agree with your findings:)

[Michaelz]

Thank you Brian for the welcome!

What type of car battery? I was wonder if a car battery may pose health hazard if used indoors.

[brian2957]

I'm using one of these : http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bosch-S4-Car-Battery-Type-063-With-4-Year-Manufacturers-Warranty-/231001234809?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item35c8bf1d79
These newer batteries are maintenance free and just need an occasional charge . As a safety precaution I wouldn't smoke over the top of one and definitely don't bridge out ( connect together ) the terminals or the sparks will fly . When used properly they're much safer than mains electricity.
I also bought a couple of these to connect the wires to : http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-PIECES-CLASSIC-MODERN-CAR-VAN-BATTERY-TERMINAL-CLAMPS-CABLE-CONNECTORS-1-PAIR-/330954786827?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item4d0e71480b
The Bushmaster uses very little power anyway so if you're not sure stick with the bike battery.

[StanleyB]

Balanced in that tiny sound of an instrument becomes tinier and big sound of the instrument becomes bigger, the sound shows its real self instead of being averaged out or compressed.
The extremely low noise floor of the Bushmaster MKII has opened up the dynamic range headroom. Whilst doing my R&D on the MKII, I asked in a different thread if anyone could hear a difference in dynamic range between 16 bit and 24 bit files with their existing DAC. The general reply was that it was difficult to say.
MCR mentioned in his comments about the MKII that he noticed that recordings reworked as part of the loudness war and that previously sounded compressed, are a lot more enjoyable with the MKII. This too is down to the increased headroom in the MKII, which doesn't bottom out so easily.

The Bushmaster MKII now makes it possible for even the "average" audio system to convey differences in dynamic range between 16 and 24 bits audio files, and to cope with amplified compressed dynamics.

[HighFidelityGuy]

If any of you are considering using lead acid batteries then I would highly recommend that you only use the sealed, maintenance free variety. Regular lead acid batteries are basically open containers of highly corrosive sulphuric acid that give off explosive gasses when charged. They're not supposed to be charged in enclosed spaces due to the release of gases and they easily spill acid if tipped over.

The other thing to consider with lead acid batteries is that most of them aren't designed to be run down fully and then charged up. This "deep cycling" as it's known will damage a normal battery. If the MkII has some kind of protection circuit built into it to prevent the battery from dropping below a certain voltage (9 or 10V for example) then you could get away with it. The same goes for T amps. If the equipment that you're powering doesn't have this protection then I would recommend the use of a deep cycle battery. The problem is finding a sealed deep cycle battery. The best options are the Optima YellowTop (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-38Ah-OPTIMA-Yellow-top-Dual-Power-Battery-YTR2-7J-Brand-New-Cheap-/111198562530?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item19e3f368e2) and the Xtatic Batcap range of batteries. These are commonly used in high end car audio installations but they're quite pricey. The YellowTop is available in the UK but I don't think Xtatic products are sold in the UK any more. There's an eBay seller that will ship to the UK though. The YellowTop is quite larger but the smaller Batcap 300 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-Original-XSTATIC-BATCAP-Model-300-/161122506482?pt=US_Car_Audio_Video_Capacitors&hash=item2583a656f2) and 400 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-Original-BATCAP-Model-400-Made-in-USA-/161122506483?pt=US_Car_Audio_Video_Capacitors&hash=item2583a656f3) are much smaller. The Batcaps are designed specifically for audio use and can deliver lots of current very quickly, like a capacitor, but can provide sustained current delivery, like a battery. Hence the name Batcap.
Another option may be the batteries that are used in UPS systems. Something like THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/390242776141?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649) for example.

You then need to consider how you're going to charge your battery. To ensure your battery stays in tip top condition you really want a good quality muti-stage charger/maintainer like THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/400344955189?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649). But you'll need to isolate the connected equipment before charging. A simple switch could be rigged up to allow you to switch over to the charger. However, you may find that a good battery will last quite a while before it needs charging. Especially if you're just powering the MkII.

A nice all in one solution would be the KingRex SLAP (http://www.itemaudio.com/index.php/power-supplies/blog-mainmenu-9/detail/27-batteries/flypage/106-kingrex-sealed-lead-acid-power.html?sef=hcfp). But it's £325 and is basically THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/NP7-12L-Yuasa-Lead-Acid-Battery-with-6-3mm-connection-/120800461554?_trksid=p2054897.l4275) battery and a decent charger in a box. So I'm thinking DIY is the way to go here. ;)

I'd be interested to know how long people are currently getting from a single charge with their lead acid batteries? :)

[wee tee cee]

I run the BM and two temple mono blocks. Big car battery (ford 2 litre) charged it yesterday, had been in use since Saturday. took about 3hrs to fully charge with a small battery charger. I am trying to avoid running it completely flat. Its an old battery but measures up fine, will probably buy a new one for peace of mind.

[StanleyB]

I am busy perfecting an old design of mine of a battery condition indicator. When it's finished I'll make it available as a plug in adapter that will show the general status of a 12V battery. Hopefully that will be a helpful tool to show when a battery needs to be recharged.

[brian2957]

I've been using mine plugged into a Bushmaster MK2 and a Bantam Gold for 36 hours now . I'll try to measure the battery with my multimeter later if anyone wants the info.

[brian2957]

I am busy perfecting an old design of mine of a battery condition indicator. When it's finished I'll make it available as a plug in adapter that will show the general status of a 12V battery. Hopefully that will be a helpful tool to show when a battery needs to be recharged.
Nice one Stan , this will come in handy.

[Oldpinkman]

Caravan, leisure (boat) and golf trolley 12v are all happy to be deep cycled. I would venture to suggest that golf trolley batteries are the most domestically acceptable. Both Lidl and Aldi periodically do excellent 4 stage charger conditioners for around £30 - but they are only ever in store for a couple of weeks at a time.

Regarding noise floor, I mentioned that my mate had also achieved excellent results with smps (on several projects over the years) - but at that stage his latest project was not public. It is now. Of course his implementation is going to sell for a few bucks more than yours, so your product remains both excellent value and no less an achievement but I thought you might be interested. http://www.stereophile.com/content/benchmark-debuts-high-dynamic-range-amplifier. I think the feeling is to get the full dynamic range a dac of that sort is capable of you need that dynamic range in the power amp too!

[Michaelz]

Hi HiFidelityGuy,

Thanks for the info on different type of batteries. I am interested in BatCap. Have you used this type of battery in your audio system? How do they compare to other types? Is there any difference in terms of sound?

[Michaelz]

I have not paid attention to battery charging since I got BushMaster mkII. With mkI I charge the battery every one or two weeks when I feel the sound was getting worse. A freshly charged battery makes the sound more dynamic according to my hearing.

[HighFidelityGuy]

Hi Michael, I have a Batcap 800 left over from my car audio days but I've never tried using it in my home Hi-Fi. I'm hoping to try it out with my Bushmaster soon but I don't know if it still works or not. It'll need a good charge at least. I'm not sure if any of the Batcaps will sound different to any other lead acid batteries to be honest. They're mainly designed for high end car audio use where it's not uncommon to have a system that draws over 50A continuously, with peaks in excess of 100A. So compared to that the current demands of the Bushmaster are next to nothing. So a Batcap may be overkill but overkill is usually good when it comes to power supplies. Seen as you're in the US, you may be able to find one of the smaller Batcap models like the 300 or 400 for a reasonable price to compare against your current battery. Maybe we should gather a bunch of different batteries together to do a shoot-out here in the UK? :eyebrows:

[Ali Tait]

If any of you are considering using lead acid batteries then I would highly recommend that you only use the sealed, maintenance free variety. Regular lead acid batteries are basically open containers of highly corrosive sulphuric acid that give off explosive gasses when charged. They're not supposed to be charged in enclosed spaces due to the release of gases and they easily spill acid if tipped over.

The other thing to consider with lead acid batteries is that most of them aren't designed to be run down fully and then charged up. This "deep cycling" as it's known will damage a normal battery. If the MkII has some kind of protection circuit built into it to prevent the battery from dropping below a certain voltage (9 or 10V for example) then you could get away with it. The same goes for T amps. If the equipment that you're powering doesn't have this protection then I would recommend the use of a deep cycle battery. The problem is finding a sealed deep cycle battery. The best options are the Optima YellowTop (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-38Ah-OPTIMA-Yellow-top-Dual-Power-Battery-YTR2-7J-Brand-New-Cheap-/111198562530?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item19e3f368e2) and the Xtatic Batcap range of batteries. These are commonly used in high end car audio installations but they're quite pricey. The YellowTop is available in the UK but I don't think Xtatic products are sold in the UK any more. There's an eBay seller that will ship to the UK though. The YellowTop is quite larger but the smaller Batcap 300 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-Original-XSTATIC-BATCAP-Model-300-/161122506482?pt=US_Car_Audio_Video_Capacitors&hash=item2583a656f2) and 400 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-Original-BATCAP-Model-400-Made-in-USA-/161122506483?pt=US_Car_Audio_Video_Capacitors&hash=item2583a656f3) are much smaller. The Batcaps are designed specifically for audio use and can deliver lots of current very quickly, like a capacitor, but can provide sustained current delivery, like a battery. Hence the name Batcap.
Another option may be the batteries that are used in UPS systems. Something like THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/390242776141?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649) for example.

You then need to consider how you're going to charge your battery. To ensure your battery stays in tip top condition you really want a good quality muti-stage charger/maintainer like THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/400344955189?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649). But you'll need to isolate the connected equipment before charging. A simple switch could be rigged up to allow you to switch over to the charger. However, you may find that a good battery will last quite a while before it needs charging. Especially if you're just powering the MkII.

A nice all in one solution would be the KingRex SLAP (http://www.itemaudio.com/index.php/power-supplies/blog-mainmenu-9/detail/27-batteries/flypage/106-kingrex-sealed-lead-acid-power.html?sef=hcfp). But it's £325 and is basically THIS (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/NP7-12L-Yuasa-Lead-Acid-Battery-with-6-3mm-connection-/120800461554?_trksid=p2054897.l4275) battery and a decent charger in a box. So I'm thinking DIY is the way to go here. ;)

I'd be interested to know how long people are currently getting from a single charge with their lead acid batteries? :)

Good advice. Another option would be a camping leisure battery. These are designed to be deep cycle. Halfords sell a couple.

[Oldpinkman]

Good advice. Another option would be a camping leisure battery. These are designed to be deep cycle. Halfords sell a couple.

Tru Ali - but they're huge. As I noted a golf trolley battery is able to deep cycle, and is a bit more domestically acceptable. It was running that FB until recently! ;)

[synsei]

Mobility scooter batteries might be another option, they are designed for deep cycle charging too and can be picked up online for very little ;)

[struth]

Mobility scooter batteries might be another option, they are designed for deep cycle charging too and can be picked up online for very little ;)
Funnily enough I have 2 spare mobility scooter batteries in the shed.....powerful little suckers they are too....wonder if I could get a cable to fit it and the dac.???

and thanks to Brian for the link to the linear psu's from Mark Grant.....might save up for one as I just emptied the equipment coffers..

[brian2957]

Nae bother Grant . You'll probably have to make up your own cable . I think these plugs will do and no soldering needed http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/10-X-DC-POWER-PLUG-12V-VOLT-CCTV-ADAPTOR-CONNECTOR-MALE-2-1MM-/200953856699?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item2ec9c882bb
The battery end should be simpler .

[Michaelz]

Hi Michael, I have a Batcap 800 left over from my car audio days but I've never tried using it in my home Hi-Fi. I'm hoping to try it out with my Bushmaster soon but I don't know if it still works or not. It'll need a good charge at least. I'm not sure if any of the Batcaps will sound different to any other lead acid batteries to be honest. They're mainly designed for high end car audio use where it's not uncommon to have a system that draws over 50A continuously, with peaks in excess of 100A. So compared to that the current demands of the Bushmaster are next to nothing. So a Batcap may be overkill but overkill is usually good when it comes to power supplies. Seen as you're in the US, you may be able to find one of the smaller Batcap models like the 300 or 400 for a reasonable price to compare against your current battery. Maybe we should gather a bunch of different batteries together to do a shoot-out here in the UK? :eyebrows:

I wish I could go to visit UK (with or without bunch of batteries). One of these days I might.

Would you happen to know how long BatCap 800 (which is what I am thinking to get) keep its charge without anything connected to it?

[magiccarpetride]

The same saying goes for the NS1000M. But the MKII really makes my speakers come to life to reveal just how excellent these speakers really are. The bass is now so good that my subwoofer is ready for disposal.

Interesting thing about the bass that BM MKII delivers. I was amazed at how much bass I'm now hearing in many of the tracks that I previously thought were bass shy. A case in point is David Byrn's compilation "O Samba": I had no idea that these songs had so much bass, because even with BM MKI the bass on that CD was wimpy, often barely audile. But not anymore -- far from it!

However, even more amazing to me is the fact that certain tracks that sounded insanely bass heavy now sound more 'normal'. The bass is strong, muscular, but now it's singing, while before, with MKI, it was more booming.

It's been a process of re-education for me, ploughing through my music library, relearning about how should those familiar songs actually sound. Amazing what stuff comes up to the surface once the bass loses its muddiness...

[StanleyB]

I had no idea that these songs had so much bass, because even with BM MKI the bass on that CD was wimpy, often barely audile. But not anymore -- far from it!

However, even more amazing to me is the fact that certain tracks that sounded insanely bass heavy now sound more 'normal'. The bass is strong, muscular, but now it's singing, while before, with MKI, it was more booming.
The MKII has better power supply configuration around the DAC chip. I have beefed up the power supply feed to the analogue section of the DAC chip, instead of using the customary shared power supply feed for the digital and analogue section. The designers who made up the original specifications for the chip were obviously more capable of designing digital circuits, not analogue ones. Since the output of the DAC chip doesn't have an external buffer stage, the internal analogue circuit needs to be beefed up with spare power delivery in order to handle difficult loads. That includes the RCA/phono cables.

[bigmarty]

Listening and more listening to lots and lots of music with the Bushmaster MK11 absolutely sublime.........
Listening to Kate Bush "50 words for snow" at the moment in the dark ....bliss

Marty :D

[kininigin]

Just ordered my Bushmaster! Really looking forward to hearing what it can do :D

[Cubeman]

Still waiting for my BM MKII thats in the mail:)

Reading a lot about battery power for the BM MKII but how does it stack up to a linear PSU like the Mark Grant one or Mains Cables R Us Linear PSU?

[StanleyB]

Reading a lot about battery power for the BM MKII but how does it stack up to a linear PSU like the Mark Grant one or Mains Cables R Us Linear PSU?
No contest. The Bushmaster was specifically built with battery power in mind. That one reason why it has:
1. A proper ON/OFF switch instead of a standby switch that would still be drawing current.
2. A very low power consumption that is even lower than many mobile phones.

[kininigin]

No contest. The Bushmaster was specifically built with battery power in mind. That one reason why it has:
1. A proper ON/OFF switch instead of a standby switch that would still be drawing current.
2. A very low power consumption that is even lower than many mobile phones.

I've not ordered a psu with the Bushmaster,just going to use what i have at the moment (variable smps) I've not really read through this thread,is there a recommended battery pack for the Bushmaster?

[Cubeman]

Clear! Just ordered the battery Stan suggested in another thread.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/330919124943?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

[StanleyB]

I've not ordered a psu with the Bushmaster,just going to use what i have at the moment (variable smps) I've not really read through this thread,is there a recommended battery pack for the Bushmaster?There is at least one thread somewhere on the forum that is dedicated to battery power for the Bushmaster and the Bantam gold. The last time I looked they were discussing battery rolling. Yes you read that correctly: battery rolling. Before you can even think about that level of intent you need some super quiet kit. Otherwise you'll struggle to reap any performance gain. The BM MKII and the Bantam Gold have so far been identified as suitable candidates. Now people are experimenting with even solar power.
Honestly, I come up with a super quiet DAC so that we can remove the debate between SMPS and LPS out of the equation, only to see it being replaced with a discussion on lithium versus lead.

[kininigin]

There is at least one thread somewhere on the forum that is dedicated to battery power for the Bushmaster and the Bantam gold. The last time I looked they were discussing battery rolling. Yes you read that correctly: battery rolling. Before you can even think about that level of intent you need some super quiet kit. Otherwise you'll struggle to reap any performance gain. The BM MKII and the Bantam Gold have so far been identified as suitable candidates. Now people are experimenting with even solar power.
Honestly, I come up with a super quiet DAC so that we can remove the debate between SMPS and LPS out of the equation, only to see it being replaced with a discussion on lithium versus lead.

I'll have a dig around on the forum then.Not really interested in battery rolling :lol: There has to be a time when just listening to music takes priority :ner:

[StanleyB]

I'll have a dig around on the forum then.Not really interested in battery rolling :lol: There has to be a time when just listening to music takes priority :ner:
Before you can enjoy a glass of rum and coke you first have to select a suitable glass size and carefully adjust the balance between coke and rum. Then you can sit down quietly and enjoy the results for as long as it takes you to finish the content of the glass.
Listening to music is basically the same. If you do the pre-listening preparations right, the listening session will be so much more enjoyable.

[kininigin]

Before you can enjoy a glass of rum and coke you first have to select a suitable glass size and carefully adjust the balance between coke and rum. Then you can sit down quietly and enjoy the results for as long as it takes you to finish the content of the glass.
Listening to music is basically the same. If you do the pre-listening preparations right, the listening session will be so much more enjoyable.

It's either straight rum or with ginger beer for me by the way ;) I hear what you are saying,but i sometimes don't get a lot of free time,so would rather just get straight into the music :)

I don't know anything about battery power supplies,so maybe there is merit in trying different batteries! (with suitable kit that is!)

[Yomanze]

Rum and ginger beer with a squeeze of lime juice. Could listen to a Bushmaster on a Barbados beach with one ha ha.

[tadatin]

Stan, could you update the status of MKII with USB input development? Any early forecasts about release date?

[wee tee cee]

I run a v -link mk1 for usb conversion, plumbed in a maplins usb-optical converter just to see if it made a jot of difference (same optical and usb cable) sounded shite! bright splashy and missing loads of detail and bass. Ho-hum.
Would be tempted to buy a BM with well resolved USB...MF site doesnt seem to list the v- link anymore !
Having heard my MK1 VS A MK2 and then 192 I know that incremental improvements can be gained.

[John]

I just cae back from a good music session
Heard the Bushmaster battery powered against the Cunas (Using MQn on the Cunas my Sony Blue ray with USB inpu to the blue ray player to play music files) Both sounded great MQn had a bit more varation to it as you can use different software patches for it. The Bushmaster held its own. Hard to direct compare as very different transport but both agreed we could live with either

[nortot]

Have my Bushytoo 2 days now, about 6 hours listening through my Touch and Arcam 73. Really cannot believe the detail that was always there but hidden....The musical assembly , the 3d soundstage is 'kin amazing. Music is so much more enjoyable, but I didn't know... this is nothing short of genius. Thanks Stan. If you've got one you'll know what I'm talking about, and as I try not to be one for superlatives I'll just say I agree completely with the excellent sonic descriptions given by others. Just v glad I started on the Beresford path when I first came across it (the Bantam route also) that finally delivered the Bushytoo.

Tom

[magiccarpetride]

If anyone has the time can you see if you have a 16 and 24 bit version of the same audio file? I would be interested to know if you can notice any difference in depth and imaging.

I've listened to Billy Cobham's "Spectrum" in 16 and 24 bit version. The 24 bit version sounds way warmer, much more pleasant to listen to. I was actually surprised that I could hear the difference, but there it was.

I then switched, out of curiosity, back to BM MKI, and listened to the same side-by-side versions. Interestingly, on MKI the 16 bit version sounds more substantial, with firmer bass, while the 24 bit version sounds somewhat pale. Switching back to MKII, the 24 bit version regains its authority and warmth.

[Yomanze]

Hmm so the MK1 has some flaws? I thought MartinT's review and another with a previous Caiman owner were more balanced, but now this thread is descending into how the MK2 is in an entirely different league.

[wee tee cee]

take the pepsie challenge.....fine music maker/head amp. Aint nobody shilling here-interconnect money for a top notch bit of kit.

[Yomanze]

take the pepsie challenge.....fine music maker/head amp. Aint nobody shilling here-interconnect money for a top notch bit of kit.

Am sure it is a fine unit (hence why I've owned and still own a Beresford DAC myself), and am not suggesting anyone is shilling. Is the MK2 a nice improvement or does it blow the MK1 away? There are a lot of existing customers with a linear supplied earlier model, and it's confusing to determine whether it really is a huge leap up, or whether it's a decent improvement.

[magiccarpetride]

Am sure it is a fine unit (hence why I've owned and still own a Beresford DAC myself), and am not suggesting anyone is shilling. Is the MK2 a nice improvement or does it blow the MK1 away? There are a lot of existing customers with a linear supplied earlier model, and it's confusing to determine whether it really is a huge leap up, or whether it's a decent improvement.

I don't think anyone can answer that question for you, but yourself. What is a decent improvement vs. a huge leap is open for discussion. But you owe it to yourself to hear MKII first.

In my case, I can tell you that upgrading from BM MKI to BM MKII was the absolute biggest improvement to the music reproduction I've ever experienced. And considering how easy will it be to sell my BM MKI, it will end up being the most affordable quantum leap ever...

[icehockeyboy]

Stan, is it better when using good ole mains power to turn off the Dac when not in use?

[StanleyB]

Stan, is it better when using good ole mains power to turn off the Dac when not in use?
It's always good to turn off the DAC when not in use.

[StanleyB]

Hmm so the MK1 has some flaws? I thought MartinT's review and another with a previous Caiman owner were more balanced, but now this thread is descending into how the MK2 is in an entirely different league.
As I mentioned from the outset when developing the MKII, it is in a different league to not just the MKI but to a substantial amount of other DACs out there, irrespective of price.
The MKII is not an upgrade to the MKI, which is what many people think.
If anyone has a DAC out there that they think performs better than the MKII then let's hear from you. I have already had people testing the MKII out against the Weiss DAC, Benchmark HDR, MDAC. In each case the MKII was a substantial improvement in some key areas.
So it is not that the MKI is flawed. It's that the MKII is rather special and my well known money back guarantee if your own DAC, no matter if you paid £10K for it, can do better is always there for peace of mind.

I am actually getting fed up of pushing the quality of playback from a DAC to even higher level, only for people who have not tried the MKII to suggest that it is all a con or marketing trick.
Get a MKII, try it, and then come here and say I am a big conman and liar and send the DAC back for a refund if anyone thinks I am ripping them off.

[struth]

well said.....I have ordered some 2.1mm connectors and am going to have a go with a battery and see if my ears can detect any improvements before changing the PSU...not sure how long the battery will last without recharge but it will be an interesting trial.

oops think I put this in wrong place...sorry!

[brian2957]

I have my Bushmaster and Bantam Gold plugged into a 12V car battery . I've used it for app. 80 hours and I recharged the battery this morning . It was fully recharged in 30 mins . IMO battery power is a big jump in SQ . If it wasn't I wouldn't be going to the bother.

[struth]

going to go out and charge the battery and have it ready....just need a couple of clips now.

[misterpete]

Just received my Bushmaster Mk II this morning, never had the Mk I but I have to say that this unit is incredible. I have experienced some very fine DACs in the past but the Bushmaster is superb. I can't believe the price, it's an absolute steal.
It removes any trace of digital hardness without dulling the sound, bass and dynamics are all improved.
I have only been using it for about Two hours and it sounds great so I will be interested to see if it gets any better when it is burnt in. Thanks Stan!

[kininigin]

Damn it,missed the delivery by 30mins!!! I'll have to wait til tomorrow now :( Been looking forward all day to listening to it!

[magiccarpetride]

I am actually getting fed up of pushing the quality of playback from a DAC to even higher level, only for people who have not tried the MKII to suggest that it is all a con or marketing trick.
Get a MKII, try it, and then come here and say I am a big conman and liar and send the DAC back for a refund if anyone thinks I am ripping them off.

The last thing we want to hear is that you're getting fed up with perfecting your DAC, Stan. Keep going, please. As for the detractors, put yourself in their shoes -- imagine if you paid thousands of bucks for your beloved DAC, only to later on learn that you can have the same, if not even better quality for a pocket change (comparatively speaking, of course). You'd feel like an ass, and would naturally kick into denial. That is human nature, that is to be expected.

MKII is a marvellous piece of gear. It gives full body to the reproduced music, and is slowly teaching me to take it all in as a whole; during the past week or so as I kept listening to music through MKII, I've learned to relax and stop paying attention to various aspects of the sound, such as the soundstage, the air around instruments, and to instead just enjoy music holistically. For me, it's now just one large mass of beautiful sound that's leaping out of my Maggies and engulfing me with emotion.

The shit is for real now!

[synsei]

I am actually getting fed up of pushing the quality of playback from a DAC to even higher level, only for people who have not tried the MKII to suggest that it is all a con or marketing trick.
Get a MKII, try it, and then come here and say I am a big conman and liar and send the DAC back for a refund if anyone thinks I am ripping them off.

What about those who you have banned from buying further products from you Stan, are they free to take the 'Pepsi Challenge' too?

[worrasf]

Clear! Just ordered the battery Stan suggested in another thread.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/330919124943?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

Be aware! you might be waiting a while.

I ordered one of these over 1 month ago and still a no show. I emailed Ankaka and received this immediate response:
"We are sincerely sorry to let you that your package has sent back to us for not passing customs check as recently Singapore Post investigate strictly on mental (sic) products and batteries. We will send it to you ASAP and will keep you updated with tracking number."

Steve

[Michaelz]

Am sure it is a fine unit (hence why I've owned and still own a Beresford DAC myself), and am not suggesting anyone is shilling. Is the MK2 a nice improvement or does it blow the MK1 away? There are a lot of existing customers with a linear supplied earlier model, and it's confusing to determine whether it really is a huge leap up, or whether it's a decent improvement.


I do not have a linear supply with BM mkI, only have the stock walwart and the sla batteries (ordered another one for mkII before I heard about BatCap). I am not qualified to tell whether from linear supplied mkI to battery mkII is giant leap or a small baby step. But from battery mkI to battery mkII is a great jump in my enjoyment in music, it also leads me to realize and appreciate the wonderful and subtle things artist and musicians created in the recordings. It reminds of an experience I had a few years ago: I can get organic eggs from grocery markets, they do not taste too much differently from non organic eggs (sometimes free cage chicken eggs taste better); a few years ago I went back to my home town and had real organic eggs from hens that walk around some village and feed on real grains, bugs and worms. An acquaintance of my parents from that village regularly brings eggs to us to our house for a good price instead of going to the open air market. They are really enjoyable, the aroma and taste! You immediately know it is special and you are very happy the whole time while you are eating it (as a side note that it brought back the memory of the taste of all the good eggs I had before I left my country for US, sort of Proust's la Madelaine moment). BM mkII is likewise. It brings the musician or artist so much more real to you, you can feel their presence, their emotional ondulations, even their gestures (from the way the music goes, the crescendos and descrescendos). English is hard for me, but I hope you get what I mean.

[StanleyB]

What about those who you have banned from buying further products from you Stan, are they free to take the 'Pepsi Challenge' too?
Dave, I have not banned anybody from trying out the BM2. Anyone is free to try out the new DAC.
If you look through the thread of the BM MKI you'll find a discussion where a couple of AoSers did a shoot out between the MKI and a couple of other DACs. Several of those present that day went on to send their BM1 back shortly afterwards and tried a Rega DAC instead.
I am pleased to say that since then they have been very happy owners of the MKII.

Last night the person who loaned me the use of a number of high end DACs from his sales stock to check against the MKII came back for his gear since he needs to sell them. After listening to even a £3K Weiss and a £1.6K Benchmark and comparing the way they present the music compared to the MKII, I have nothing to worry about out there on the market. Other AoSers have already done the MDAC and Rega DAC A/B testing for me and they say there is no contest. The MKII is the better DAC presentation wise.

So be free to get on my site at http://www.homehifi.co.uk/PP/Digital_Audio_1.html and place an order. I can ship today, which means you'll have it on Thursday. That will give you the whole weekend to try it out against your Rega DAC.

[StanleyB]

Am sure it is a fine unit (hence why I've owned and still own a Beresford DAC myself), and am not suggesting anyone is shilling. Is the MK2 a nice improvement or does it blow the MK1 away?
Neil, you put your name down on the waiting list for a MKII, but cancelled your order when I sent you the ordering link. I would suggest that you get on my site at http://www.homehifi.co.uk/PP/Digital_Audio_1.html and place an order for the MKII today. You would have it on Thursday hopefully, and then you can try it out against the MKI that you own. Send it back next Monday for a refund and let the AoS community know what you think after you have had a chance to compare the MKII against all the other DACs in your collection. I can't be any fairer than that.

[MartinT]

Am sure it is a fine unit (hence why I've owned and still own a Beresford DAC myself), and am not suggesting anyone is shilling. Is the MK2 a nice improvement or does it blow the MK1 away?

In my opinion, it doesn't 'blow the Mk. I away'. The Mk. II is a good all-round incremental improvement and therefore superb value for money. On an absolute level, it's one of the very best DACs I know. I think we need to be careful with terminology here as we should remember that we were all wowed by the Mk. I not that long ago.

We run the risk of the language used putting people off the BM Mk. II and that would be a terrible shame as it really is that good. Just don't use phrases like 'blow away' or 'night and day' as there are very few times ever in hi-fi where they can be applied.

[StanleyB]

The thing that any DAC buyer should consider before laying down their money is what it is that they are after. DACs come with different attributes, and level of abilities at achieving those attributes.
I designed the MKII to be as quiet as I could, with pace, rhythm, and timing that was practically possible, and an audio frequency accuracy that was as precise as technically could be achieved. That in turn delivered exceptional detail, 3D imaging and soundstage. These factors are the ones that makes the TC-7533 stand out within even the first 60 seconds of listening to it.
But not everyone wants exceptional detail, 3D imaging, or soundstage. Some people even complain that there is too much bass, even though the bass response is a directly decoded and played back version of what is in the original audio file. Other people want a warm and valve like sound. The TC-7533 has no valves in it, or any external audio stage to mimic the warmth of valves. So you won't get any warm glow from it either.
One person emailed me to accuse me that I was adding additional musical detail in the decoding process because he had tunes that he knew backwards and there is no way that some of the detail that he could now hear could ever have been in the original recording. What do I say to customers like that in response?
There are other popular DACs on the market with less of the attributes inherent in the TC-7533. So there is a choice. But for anyone wanting all those specific attributes that the MKII offers in one concise package and at an affordable cost, then there is at the moment in time only one clear choice.

[NRG]

In my opinion, it doesn't 'blow the Mk. I away'. The Mk. II is a good all-round incremental improvement and therefore superb value for money. On an absolute level, it's one of the very best DACs I know. I think we need to be careful with terminology here as we should remember that we were all wowed by the Mk. I not that long ago.

We run the risk of the language used putting people off the BM Mk. II and that would be a terrible shame as it really is that good. Just don't use phrases like 'blow away' or 'night and day' as there are very few times ever in hi-fi where they can be applied.

I think the MKII is a significant improvement over the MKI in terms of a DAC. Certainly for me I needed time to adjust to the presentation and also the unit needed some running in time before I was happy with it. I did have my doubts at first and was worried that I could not live with it, my first impression was not a positive one! Going back to the MKI now I find it hard to listen to for any length of time.

[Cubeman]

Be aware! you might be waiting a while.

I ordered one of these over 1 month ago and still a no show. I emailed Ankaka and received this immediate response:
"We are sincerely sorry to let you that your package has sent back to us for not passing customs check as recently Singapore Post investigate strictly on mental (sic) products and batteries. We will send it to you ASAP and will keep you updated with tracking number."

Steve

Thanks for the heads up!

I originally ordered through the eBay link Stan posted but that order got cancelled by the seller because the have stocking issues.
Was planning to go the Ankaka route but that would give problem to I guess.
Bummer!

[icehockeyboy]

When I sold on my expensive Theta and the related bits, anti jitter device and upgraded PSU, I believed I didn't need another Dac.
I then saw Jandl commenting how good the mk1 was, so I tried it.
Unfortunately, I found the Stan Dac to be superior to the Theta, and commented here about it.
At this point I need to apologise to the guy that bought my Theta, who naturall questioned my aural memory, as I had a spell sans Dac, but I genuinely believe that the BM just made a better noise, and as for the mk2, well, it's a more than audible improvement.

[Yomanze]

When I sold on my expensive Theta and the related bits, anti jitter device and upgraded PSU, I believed I didn't need another Dac.
I then saw Jandl commenting how good the mk1 was, so I tried it.
Unfortunately, I found the Stan Dac to be superior to the Theta, and commented here about it.
At this point I need to apologise to the guy that bought my Theta, who naturall questioned my aural memory, as I had a spell sans Dac, but I genuinely believe that the BM just made a better noise, and as for the mk2, well, it's a more than audible improvement.

Unfortunately I haven't had the opportunity to directly compare my Theta DAC that I bought from you & my Bushmaster as one of the RCA sockets broke, and have yet to repair it. It was just so far above the humble TC-7510 though. No need to be sorry dude! IMO it's extremely difficult to compare devices from memory, especially when using different devices in between, but at the same time, if it's better for you then that's all that matters!

[icehockeyboy]

Unfortunately I haven't had the opportunity to directly compare my Theta DAC that I bought from you & my Bushmaster as one of the RCA sockets broke, and have yet to repair it. It was just so far above the humble TC-7510 though. No need to be sorry dude! IMO it's extremely difficult to compare devices from memory, especially when using different devices in between, but at the same time, if it's better for you then that's all that matters!

Whew! Thanks Neil! :)

[StanleyB]

Neil, it's no use clinging on to straws. If you want to convince yourself of how good the MKII is or not compared to any DAC you own or can borrow, just send me a PM with your address detail and I shall send you one to try out. And I'll even send you the return postage. I can't do any better than that. Where there is doubt let's solve it.

[synsei]

Stan, one of the features I find useful on the Rega is its digital out facility. This enables me to facilitate recordings in the digital domain on my MD player/recorder, do you have any plans to include this facility in a future product?

[StanleyB]

I am still working on a way to have a digital output socket that will allow digital pass through, and even A to D copying. I though I had it sorted, but then the chip manufacturer decided to stop making the chip that I was going to use. So it is back to square one.
But the BM PCB has a digital output. It is just not connected to anything at the moment.

[synsei]

I am still working on a way to have a digital output socket that will allow digital pass through, and even A to D copying. I though I had it sorted, but then the chip manufacturer decided to stop making the chip that I was going to use. So it is back to square one.
But the BM PCB has a digital output. It is just not connected to anything at the moment.

Ah that's a bugger, could you keep us posted about this please? Cheers...

[magiccarpetride]

In my opinion, it doesn't 'blow the Mk. I away'. The Mk. II is a good all-round incremental improvement and therefore superb value for money. On an absolute level, it's one of the very best DACs I know. I think we need to be careful with terminology here as we should remember that we were all wowed by the Mk. I not that long ago.

We run the risk of the language used putting people off the BM Mk. II and that would be a terrible shame as it really is that good. Just don't use phrases like 'blow away' or 'night and day' as there are very few times ever in hi-fi where they can be applied.

One can only respond to what one actually experiences at the moment. Last year, when I got my MKI, I was blown away, because it bettered Gatorized Caiman in all aspects. This year, after upgrading to MKII, I was forced to conclude that it is a 'night and day' type of an improvement compared to MKI (this despite my strong initial scepticism). Why, if that's the case, am I expected to hold back my superlatives? Are we all now supposed to cultivate this particularly insidious brand of politically correct lowered self esteem and, out of politeness, abstain from passing any judgment? Why does everything have to get watered down, so as not to offend some moronic minority groups? That's bullshi*

[StanleyB]

Are we all now supposed to cultivate this particularly insidious brand of politically correct lowered self esteem and, out of politeness, abstain from passing any judgement? Why does everything have to get watered down, so as not to offend some moronic minority groups?
In Britain we call a spade a gardening tool, and an actress an actor.
We are only political incorrect with immigrants and members of certain other EU countries.

[MartinT]

Why, if that's the case, am I expected to hold back my superlatives? Are we all now supposed to cultivate this particularly insidious brand of politically correct lowered self esteem and, out of politeness, abstain from passing any judgment? Why does everything have to get watered down, so as not to offend some moronic minority groups? That's bullshi*

Nothing to do with political correctness, Alex (if you knew me, you'd know how funny that is). It's about having a sense of proportion and the use of language:

If I heard the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra playing Mahler's 2nd after only ever having heard a street corner violinist, I might be 'blown away'.
Driving a Jaguar F-Type after owning a Skoda Estelle might be a 'night and day' experience.

When I heard my BM2 fresh out of the box, I was very pleasantly surprised. It was a nice upgrade over the BM1 and I found it to be one of the best DACs I've heard. That's not damning with faint praise, it's just that people don't take the words I've written as read.

[StanleyB]

When I heard my BM2 fresh out of the box, I was very pleasantly surprised. It was a nice upgrade over the BM1 and I found it to be one of the best DACs I've heard. That's not damning with faint praise, it's just that people don't take the words I've written as read.
I'll try to remember to ask you to beta test the C2;).

[MartinT]

:lol:

[kininigin]

Finally have the Bushmaster plumbed in! Been listening for the last hour and very early impressions are that this is a bit special init :D

[Cubeman]

Went to pick up my BMII at the post office after only just missing the mailman yesterday...
Hurried home to unpack and plug in, I already own a TC7520 with Gator upgrade and upgraded op-amps that I use for headphone use with a 250ohm BeyerDynamic DT880 Pro headphone.
I thought I had a pretty good setup but when I exchanged the TC7520 for the Bushmaster MKII I was quite blown away.
This BMII really is in de different class.

After first setup I left the BMII playing with some ultrasonic CD that I got with a pair of speakers.
Just went to listen some more after about 6 hours burn inn time.
Damn, this sounds good!
Much more detail, dynamic, and lage sound stage.
Listed to some Tool CD's Lateralus and 10.000 days and Anathema's Hinsight.
Must say I think I hear lots more detail, very strange experience to listen to music you heard a 1000 times and now discover new things.
Also the BMII has power to spare, I use iTunes with the volume set to 100% and the knob on the BMII never went past 10 o'clock :)
More then enough power for my likings!

[Yomanze]

Went to pick up my BMII at the post office after only just missing the mailman yesterday...
Hurried home to unpack and plug in, I already own a TC7520 with Gator upgrade and upgraded op-amps that I use for headphone use with a 250ohm BeyerDynamic DT880 Pro headphone.
I thought I had a pretty good setup but when I exchanged the TC7520 for the Bushmaster MKII I was quite blown away.
This BMII really is in de different class.

After first setup I left the BMII playing with some ultrasonic CD that I got with a pair of speakers.
Just went to listen some more after about 6 hours burn inn time.
Damn, this sounds good!
Much more detail, dynamic, and lage sound stage.
Listed to some Tool CD's Lateralus and 10.000 days and Anathema's Hinsight.
Must say I think I hear lots more detail, very strange experience to listen to music you heard a 1000 times and now discover new things.
Also the BMII has power to spare, I use iTunes with the volume set to 100% and the knob on the BMII never went past 10 o'clock :)
More then enough power for my likings!

Some awesome albums you're listening to there, huge fan of Anathema & Tool. :)

And yes my TC-7510 was nice (haven't heard the TC-7520), but no match for the Bushmaster!

[brian2957]

Finally have the Bushmaster plumbed in! Been listening for the last hour and very early impressions are that this is a bit special init :D

Think about using it on battery power Darren . Had a couple of guys from the forum round today and tried both mains ( Power Inspired AG500 and Maplins linear PSU) and 12v battery . Battery power is a significant upgrade in SQ IMHO.

[magiccarpetride]

In Britain we call a spade a gardening tool, and an actress an actor.
We are only political incorrect with immigrants and members of certain other EU countries.

That's why it's so surprising that you can even enter your house through the front door, considering such broad views you're carrying around.

[magiccarpetride]

Nothing to do with political correctness, Alex (if you knew me, you'd know how funny that is). It's about having a sense of proportion and the use of language:

If I heard the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra playing Mahler's 2nd after only ever having heard a street corner violinist, I might be 'blown away'.
Driving a Jaguar F-Type after owning a Skoda Estelle might be a 'night and day' experience.

Yes, that's a bit ham-fisted as far as comparisons go. Of course if you put some abused homeless kid from the slums of Calcutta into a royal palace, the kid will be 'blown away'.

But also, one can look at things with a bit more finesse and claim that switching from Nespresso Arpeggio to Nespresso Livanto presented one with a 'night and day' difference that caused one's mind to be 'blown away'. (and btw, this intense switch experience really happened to me;)

[John]

Just to confirm Brian view on using Battery power I had a MCRU Linear power supply in the system and the battery performs better. I now sold the Linear power supply and the Bushmaster and Bantam powered by battery now

[MartinT]

But also, one can look at things with a bit more finesse and claim that switching from Nespresso Arpeggio to Nespresso Livanto presented one with a 'night and day' difference that caused one's mind to be 'blown away'. (and btw, this intense switch experience really happened to me;)

LOL - I'll bear that in mind. We've just had new Nespresso machines installed at work - yay!

[magiccarpetride]

LOL - I'll bear that in mind. We've just had new Nespresso machines installed at work - yay!

Much to my amazement, Nespresso is the first machine ever to approach good baristas in making kick ass espresso. But the experience wildly varies depending on which capsules you use. Basically, with capsules it's 100% down to individual taste.

[MartinT]

I certainly wouldn't compare our Nespresso machines with a good commercial coffee like from our Costa coffee chain (it's better than Starbucks' coffee, and Costa pay their taxes), but it suffices.

[MartinT]

I've just been playing with the BM2 a little, especially using the Logitech Touch (with EDO) and Spotify app. Trying out the new Lorde album, the sound quality defies any notion of internet streaming. So clean and well resolved, with quiet background, that it might as well be the CD playing. Outstanding!

My battery (as recommended by Stan) has been despatched so I'll soon enter the world of 'battery rolling' and see what all the fuss is about. Right now, running at 15V from my Paul Hynes PSU, the BM2 sounds every bit the high end DAC that it is.

[brian2957]

What battery is it Martin . I've tried the Bushmaster 2 with a couple of different batteries ( currently using a 12V car battery ) and it's outstanding . Please keep us posted on your findings. Should be interesting. (:

[Yomanze]

Hi Martin would be interested if the P10 closes any battery/mains gap. Am currently running a BM2 with a 'Mark Grant' supply but with balanced mains, which already has a huge impact on dropping the noise floor.

[MartinT]

Hi Martin would be interested if the P10 closes any battery/mains gap.

Indeed, Neil, I'll try and answer that question by reverting to raw mains once I have the battery in place and fed in turn from the PH PSU. Right now, without the battery, I can hear the difference although nowhere near as apparent as going towards the power amp in the system chain.

[MartinT]

What battery is it Martin

This one (http://www.ankaka.com/incredible-20000mah-battery-charger-universal-portable-battery_p409.html).

[brian2957]

Cheers dood :)

[John]

Looking forwars to your thoughts Martin if positive I might move to one of those at the moment I am using a 12v battery and have a recharger wired in via a 3 way switch

[magiccarpetride]

I've just been playing with the BM2 a little, especially using the Logitech Touch (with EDO) and Spotify app. Trying out the new Lorde album, the sound quality defies any notion of internet streaming. So clean and well resolved, with quiet background, that it might as well be the CD playing. Outstanding!

My battery (as recommended by Stan) has been despatched so I'll soon enter the world of 'battery rolling' and see what all the fuss is about. Right now, running at 15V from my Paul Hynes PSU, the BM2 sounds every bit the high end DAC that it is.

Would be interesting to learn whether that battery makes BM MKII sound even better. If yes, I'm thinking of ordering one for myself. Do let us know your impressions once yours arrive.

On another note, I've now fully burned in my MKII, and yesterday I sat down for a critical listen. I can't say that the burn in has had much of a noticeable impact, at least not to my ears. There is one area, though, that I feel benefited from the burn in. The sound now feels more delicate, sort of like a piece of fabric that was made from the lightest, most delicate strands. I was amazed how this quality makes familiar tracks, such as Led Zeppelin "That's the Way", sound much more precious. I guess it's the increased precision, especially in the sibilance (Plant's pronunciation of 's' is now very life-like). Also, Page's acoustic guitar strings are now picked with more finesse, and even when he is strumming, I can hear, with ease, each individual string vibrating. Amazing!

But one thing is for sure: MKII has removed a lot of the 'sheen' that is still there with MKI. On some tracks, that is a god send. However, on some other tracks, I find myself missing the old familiar sheen and mild distortion. For example, the drums on Credence Clearwater Revival "I Put a Spell on You" now sound more controlled, more tame, because MKII seems to be removing last traces of distortion. Plug MKI back in, and the larger-than-life drum kit is back! Together with muddier, boomier bass. Such sound somehow befits the 'dirty garage rock band' intent a bit better. I wasn't aware that CCR had such cleanly recorded sound.

First three Led Zeppelin CDs sound absolutely fantastic on MKII. I used to think that they should remaster those classic albums, but now I'm convinced that Page did a definitive, authoritative job when he remastered those back in the '90s. MKII is amazing in revealing all these 'truths' about CDs we've had in our possession for many years.

[John]

There is no doubt the battery makes it the BM MK2 sound better and the difference will be another oh my god moment for you
Martin uses some very expensive mains gear so be interest if battery power beats that approach It certainly was better than using a high quality linear power supply

[StanleyB]

The reason that the MKII sounds so good with batteries is due to the extremely low noise floor. In other DAC designs, including the MKI from me the noise floor is far higher. So once you hit the floor so to speak, no amount of cleaner power is going to make a difference as far as picking up additional info is concerned.
The two most popular linear power supplies as used with the MKI are able to go down to the noise floor level of the MKI. But the MKII is far lower, which is where batteries come in.

The PRaT of the MKII, plus its lower noise floor combine to make the DAC sound a lot better than one would normally have expected.

[kininigin]

Think about using it on battery power Darren . Had a couple of guys from the forum round today and tried both mains ( Power Inspired AG500 and Maplins linear PSU) and 12v battery . Battery power is a significant upgrade in SQ IMHO.

I've been away in France the last few days Brian,so have only just started listening to it properly today. If the battery route is quite a bit better,then i'm in for a treat! It is very impressive so far!

[brian2957]

The Bushmaster 2 powered by the mains ( I also use a Power Inspired AG500 ) is very good indeed . Powered by a 12V car battery is a step up in performance , however I would be surprised if the battery which Martin has ordered isn't a further upgrade from the 12V car battery .

[kininigin]

Well i'm not sure i would want a car battery lying around,but the one Martin is getting looks far more suitable! I'm in no rush atm though,still getting used to it with the smps!

[brian2957]

Mines hidden under the hifi rack :eyebrows:. Agreed though , Martins does look like a more practical solution .

[magiccarpetride]

The reason that the MKII sounds so good with batteries is due to the extremely low noise floor. In other DAC designs, including the MKI from me the noise floor is far higher. So once you hit the floor so to speak, no amount of cleaner power is going to make a difference as far as picking up additional info is concerned.
The two most popular linear power supplies as used with the MKI are able to go down to the noise floor level of the MKI. But the MKII is far lower, which is where batteries come in.

The PRaT of the MKII, plus its lower noise floor combine to make the DAC sound a lot better than one would normally have expected.

Then I must get that battery! I was listening to the 24 bit/96 kHz recording of Vivaldi last night, and was truly amazed at the heartbreaking beauty of the sound. The sound is now so beautiful, so delicate, that it almost slows the time down. The string instruments are so calm, so well positioned on the soundstage, that it really sucks you in, and the time slows down. I've never experienced anything like that in my many years of listening to reproduced music on various high-end systems...

[Yomanze]

Double post.

[Yomanze]

Don't forget that a lot of 24/96 files are mastered differently. Don't get sucked into the 'high res' hype as 16/44.1 is already way above vinyl or FM resolution despite not sounding as 'nice' in many cases when comparing analogue and digital sources.

[magiccarpetride]

Don't forget that a lot of 24/96 files are mastered differently. Don't get sucked into the 'high res' hype as 16/44.1 is already way above vinyl or FM resolution despite not sounding as 'nice' in many cases when comparing analogue and digital sources.

I completely agree. In my experience, it's not that the high-res format necessarily offers more previously unheard details, it's just that it somehow sounds nicer than the 16 bit equivalent. My overall impression, now that I'm listening side-by-side to the red book and the high-res versions of the same masters, is that the high-res sound is somehow calmer, less nervous than the 16 bit sound. Everything else being the same, this calm, the more relaxed, the more not-trying-so-hard presentation that the 24 bit format delivers, makes a hell of a difference.

[Ammonite Audio]

+1

As an example, I have the same early 1960s recording of some Mozart Piano Concertos (Geza Anda, on DG) ripped from CD and downloaded from Linn as 24/96 FLAC. The high-res files may sound calmer and cleaner, but all of the atmosphere, verve and musical nuances have been edited out. The CD version has hiss, but hits the spot musically speaking.

High-res music can and should sound better, but we are at the mercy of the person doing the remastering, and quite obviously some of them do not listen to actual music.


I completely agree. In my experience, it's not that the high-res format necessarily offers more previously unheard details, it's just that it somehow sounds nicer than the 16 bit equivalent. My overall impression, now that I'm listening side-by-side to the red book and the high-res versions of the same masters, is that the high-res sound is somehow calmer, less nervous than the 16 bit sound. Everything else being the same, this calm, the more relaxed, the more not-trying-so-hard presentation that the 24 bit format delivers, makes a hell of a difference.

[icehockeyboy]

This one (http://www.ankaka.com/incredible-20000mah-battery-charger-universal-portable-battery_p409.html).

Please excuse my ignorance in this matter, but the link goes to a battery charger...........?
Would someone kindly explain to me? :scratch:

[Firebottle]

It`s a universal portable battery, that can also be used to charge other portable items of lower battery voltage.

:cool: Alan

[MartinT]

Please excuse my ignorance in this matter, but the link goes to a battery charger...........?
Would someone kindly explain to me? :scratch:

It's a battery and charger in one. The clue is in the title: 20,000mAH (a rating that only applies to batteries).

[icehockeyboy]

Thanks chaps.

So what about using a standard 12v battery charger?

[MartinT]

So what about using a standard 12v battery charger?

The idea is to not put dirty mains into the DC circuit. The charger recommended charges the battery and then shuts off when fully charged, powering the BM2 only from the battery. You would have to charge and disconnect if you wanted to use a standard battery and charger.

[icehockeyboy]

The idea is to not put dirty mains into the DC circuit. The charger recommended charges the battery and then shuts off when fully charged, powering the BM2 only from the battery. You would have to charge and disconnect if you wanted to use a standard battery and charger.

Thanks for that!

[worrasf]

The idea is to not put dirty mains into the DC circuit. The charger recommended charges the battery and then shuts off when fully charged, powering the BM2 only from the battery. You would have to charge and disconnect if you wanted to use a standard battery and charger.

But in reality if left connected to the mains it will start to charge the battery again after a few minutes of DAC use so I dont leave mine connected to the mains. In fact, as the charger makes a bit of a hum I charge it from a different location to the HiFi gear. Also, the DC input plug is a tad fiddly in that to get a 100% connection you need to remove about 1mm of black plastic shroud from the plug (Stan B Top Tip).

FWIW this is the one I use: http://www.ankaka.com/incredible-20000mah-battery-charger-universal-portable-battery_p409.html

As I said on a previous post there were issues getting it through Singapore customs but the after sales service (Helen) is very good and the replacement arrived within a week and did not cost me any import/customs/parcelforce charges.

Steve

[MartinT]

I've got one on its way. I will be using my Paul Hynes power supply to charge it, which is altogether quiter than a switched mode charger, but I will also conduct listening tests without a charger connected.

[Macca]

One person emailed me to accuse me that I was adding additional musical detail in the decoding process because he had tunes that he knew backwards and there is no way that some of the detail that he could now hear could ever have been in the original recording. What do I say to customers like that in response?
.

I could think of a few things I'd like to say to him. What a nutjob. There are some really crazy people running around out there; you should get used to it with age but you never really do.

[MikeMusic]

I could think of a few things I'd like to say to him. What a nutjob. There are some really crazy people running around out there; you should get used to it with age but you never really do.

I have the same problem with all of the upgrades I've made.
Perhaps I should send them all back and go back to the music as I knew it
NOT

[Fi-Wi]

I think the charger was designed as a plug-and-forget device so reduced lifetime would not make sense IMO.

[magiccarpetride]

One person emailed me to accuse me that I was adding additional musical detail in the decoding process because he had tunes that he knew backwards and there is no way that some of the detail that he could now hear could ever have been in the original recording. What do I say to customers like that in response?

Sounds crazy, I know, but every now and then I also find myself disbelieving what I'm hearing when playing familiar tracks. How can it be that such a prominent detail was previously completely absent? Feels almost bewitching.

[MartinT]

I've just ordered another Yannis 223.5 ConnectLitz (http://www.back-promo.co.uk/html/223_5connect-litz.html) silver cable with WBT 0110Ag connectors for my BM2 to preamp, treating it to the same superb cable that I use in the rest of my system. That will elevate its performance a little more again.

Note: the WBTs only just fit next to each other in the rather close-together phono sockets on the back of the BM2. Stan: small request please, to widen the phono socket gap in your next model.

[StanleyB]

The phone assembly has a fixed distance between the left and right socket. I can't widen it. It's a moulded one part assembly.
The only way to increase the distance would be to use individual back panel mounted sockets. But that would mean redesigning the PCB and the back panel.

[MartinT]

Ah ok, thanks for that. WBTs will just fit and allow the outer casings to be tightened up. I think that wider plugs like Eichmanns won't fit.

[Yomanze]

Ah ok, thanks for that. WBTs will just fit and allow the outer casings to be tightened up. I think that wider plugs like Eichmanns won't fit.

I slip a piece of card in between mine... but upon thinking the outer casing isn't conductive?

[MartinT]

the outer casing isn't conductive?

Not with WBT 0110Ags.

[bigmarty]

Ah ok, thanks for that. WBTs will just fit and allow the outer casings to be tightened up. I think that wider plugs like Eichmanns won't fit.

Hi Martin,

I had the same idea as yourself and wanted to upgrade my cables from my pre amp to the Bushmaster MK11 and ordered a pair from Paul at Reffc, after a few emails between us I eventually ordered his Reference Mercury cable which use the Eichmanns Silver bullets. These duly arrived and I thought the same as you, will they fit? :scratch: but they do just fit. I don't think I could get a cigarette paper between them but they do sound wonderful. :)

Marty:D

[MartinT]

Good to know, Marty. Thanks.

[magiccarpetride]

I've just ordered another Yannis 223.5 ConnectLitz (http://www.back-promo.co.uk/html/223_5connect-litz.html) silver cable with WBT 0110Ag connectors for my BM2 to preamp, treating it to the same superb cable that I use in the rest of my system. That will elevate its performance a little more again.

Note: the WBTs only just fit next to each other in the rather close-together phono sockets on the back of the BM2. Stan: small request please, to widen the phono socket gap in your next model.

What's the price on these?

[MartinT]

What's the price on these?

There's a downloadable price list on the page I linked to. For the 1m cable I ordered with WBT 0110Ag plugs, £295. That's exceptional for a fully silver cable that sounds better than anything else I've ever used.

[magiccarpetride]

There's a downloadable price list on the page I linked to. For the 1m cable I ordered with WBT 0110Ag plugs, £295. That's exceptional for a fully silver cable that sounds better than anything else I've ever used.

Thanks Martin, and I apologize for not being able to spot the downloadable price list.

[MikeMusic]

Thanks Martin, and I apologize for not being able to spot the downloadable price list.

There's something about that price list that makes it difficult to find

[marflao]

Wow... the fact that the cable is more expensive than the BM2 might speak (one more time) for Stan's brilliant work he did. I assume you wouldn't pay that much if the dac wasn't it worth.
Hmm.... maybe I should upgrade, too?! ;-)

[MartinT]

Wow... the fact that the cable is more expensive than the BM2 might speak (one more time) for Stan's brilliant work

I think the BM2's quality completely justifies it.

[MikeMusic]

I think the BM2's quality completely justifies it.

The kit v's cables cost has been in my head for a while.
Probably not today I will put some exotic cables on the Arcam CD and Amp, TDL speakers to see what it sounds like

[synsei]

I have a BM2 in my system just now and things are looking positive. It doesn't quite match the Rega on vocals, which are rendered with such a soulful air on the Rega, but by golly by gosh the BM2 knows a thing or two about how to handle bass, it is quite the best DAC I have heard in this respect and Stan is to be congratulated. There are one or two very small issues apparent just now but I suspect the BM2 needs to settle into the system for a couple of days after which these may well disappear, therefore it's a provisional thumbs up for the BM2 from me... :)

[brian2957]

I was using my Bushmaster 2 with a 12V car battery which takes it into another league altogether . The battery which the chaps are talking about here is a further improvement again.

[John]

yes lots more to come

[synsei]

yes lots more to come

I'm looking forward to it John, Cassandra Wilson has never sounded so good and I get to listen on my headphones tonight. Yippeee!!! ;)

[r100]

Slightly off topic but do you offer a trade-in option ? I have the previous version 7350 model.

[CSM]

I got this dac/amp last two weeks ago - thanks Stan for fast shipping. Plays beautifully.

The headphone amp section needs burning in though (as I've done with all headphone amps I've had) and after a week or two I'll give impressions.

[John]

I'm looking forward to it John, Cassandra Wilson has never sounded so good and I get to listen on my headphones tonight. Yippeee!!! ;)
Going battery is a must on the BM Mk2 takes the DAC up with some very serious DACs
I am going to get a Lithium battery to see what difference that makes

[Yomanze]

I have been listening to a BM2 with Mark Grant supply into balanced mains for a couple of weeks now. With balanced mains the noise floor is dropped incredibly and can be noticed in how much more dynamic the sound is at very low volumes. I suspect battery power vs regular mains is showing similar. I ran the BM2 into a different wall socket for a while until moving stuff to get it into the balanced mains block, it did open out the sound a lot, fuller, more dynamic and better presence.

[worrasf]

I also have balanced mains and initially used a Mark Grant linear PSU/sBooster with my BM2. I am in no doubt that the SQ achieved with the Ankaka high capacity battery is significantly better - the good news (for me) is that the MG powers my BM 1 better than the battery - I think Stan has commented on this phenomenon in another post.
Steve

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

[Fi-Wi]

Does powering the Ankaka charger with the MG psu/SBooster improve the SQ of the BM2 compared to feeding it directly from the wall socket?

[Yomanze]

I also have balanced mains and initially used a Mark Grant linear PSU/sBooster with my BM2. I am in no doubt that the SQ achieved with the Ankaka high capacity battery is significantly better - the good news (for me) is that the MG powers my BM 1 better than the battery - I think Stan has commented on this phenomenon in another post.
Steve

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

Interesting comments, thanks, are there particular areas that improve?

[worrasf]

Hi
See post #29 in the thread Stan started on "high end battery solution" I've also posted that I find the difference is even more marked when listening with headphones direct from the BM 2
Steve

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

[MartinT]

I just received the Yannis ConnectLitz cables today and slotted them into my system between BM2 and preamp. Another step up in transparency and openness. The BM2 just keeps getting better and I haven't received the battery yet.

One very good test that everything is working well is Ry Cooder's Bop 'Til You Drop. I usually play the vinyl but tonight I streamed it from Spotify through the Touch into the BM2. Impressive filigree detail and dynamics. Very nice indeed.


http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2871/10966676116_db387dd27d_o.jpg

[John]

Does powering the Ankaka charger with the MG psu/SBooster improve the SQ of the BM2 compared to feeding it directly from the wall socket?
Using battery or the Ankaka charger means you do not have to use the MG psu/SBooster on the BM2 The idea is to move from your mains completly It be interesting to hear Martin thoughts when he gets his Lithium power supply. For me that be the ultimate test of this approach

[Freeman]

This one of my favourite demo tracks with the BM2 + Bantam Gold http://www.deezer.com/track/71129383 :violin: Damn good album as well.

[MartinT]

It be interesting to hear Martin thoughts when he gets his Lithium power supply.

I'm looking forward to receiving it, John. I'm just mindful that I'm using a Paul Hynes power supply connected to my regenerator. How much better can a battery be? Guess I'll find out soon.

[brian2957]

I use a Power Inspired AG500 and the battery was a noticeable upgrade Martin .

[MartinT]

That's good to know, Brian.

[MikeMusic]

One very good test that everything is working well is Ry Cooder's Bop 'Til You Drop. I usually play the vinyl but tonight I streamed it from Spotify through the Touch into the BM2. Impressive filigree detail and dynamics. Very nice indeed.


An album I now keep out permanently as it is so good comparing

[magiccarpetride]

Going battery is a must on the BM Mk2 takes the DAC up with some very serious DACs

Sounds exciting. I have a stupid question: if I purchase the 'ankaka' battery that Stan recommended, will it come with the appropriate connector so that I can right away plug it into BM KMII?

One of my biggest surprises with BM MKII thus far is "Hey Joe" by Hendrix. That track always sounded harsh to the point of straining, but now, for the first time, it sounds relaxed, unhurried, warm and laid back. Plus I can now hear so much more raw emotion in Hendrix's voice. Amazing transformation!

Also, many tracks now offer more prolonged fade out; obviously the result of lowering the noise level, the quiet passages now reveal much more detail...

[worrasf]

Yes, the battery comes with several tips one of which fits the BM 2 no need for any additional plugs or cables. I did find that the plug from the supplied charger into the battery had a flaky connection but Stan's tip of removing 1mm of the plastic shroud on the plug solved it.
Steve

[Barry]

An album I now keep out permanently as it is so good comparing

Why? It is a prime example of what was wrong with (early) digital recordings.

[MartinT]

Why? It is a prime example of what was wrong with (early) digital recordings.

I've heard you say this before about BTYD, Barry. I can only disagree with you. Despite it having taken rooms full of equipment to make the first ever popular digital recording, I think it is an outstanding recording that stands against anything done since. It is also a severe test as it only sounds really good - dynamic, detailed and insightful - when the whole system is performing well. The vinyl pressing is outstanding in my book and the Spotify stream surprisingly good.

[StanleyB]

I have several digital recordings made on different continents. They sound absolutely fabulous when compared to the remastered versions or recent releases. There was no loudness war back in those days for one. The other thing is that when you listen to these old recordings on a DAC like the TC-7533 it then transpires that there is a lot of recorded information in the digital file that previously available D to A decoders were just incapable of resolving. Studio engineers appear to have boosted the low level audio signals in later years in order to raise those signals within the decoding capability of the D to A decoders. This has given rise to the urban legend that the first digital recordings were not that professionally done. But a DAC like the TC-7533 is now able to dispel a lot of those misguided assumptions. Once you hear those "missing" vocals and instruments for the first time, it is hard not to feel excited.

[Barry]

I've heard you say this before about BTYD, Barry. I can only disagree with you. Despite it having taken rooms full of equipment to make the first ever popular digital recording, I think it is an outstanding recording that stands against anything done since. It is also a severe test as it only sounds really good - dynamic, detailed and insightful - when the whole system is performing well. The vinyl pressing is outstanding in my book and the Spotify stream surprisingly good.

My complaint with BTYD concerns the sound-staging and solidity of the instrumentalists - there is none. The musicians are two-dimensional, they have no depth to them. They just pop up and down like shooting gallery ducks, or like the price flags of an old fashioned cash register.

Apart from that - it aint bad! :lol:

[MartinT]

Apart from that - it aint bad! :lol:

Ah well, it's good that we're all different!

[r100]

Slightly off topic but do you offer a trade-in option ? I have the previous version 7350 model.

bump ?

[Covenant]

After reading this thread (over several days) I couldn't resist and have ordered the Bushytwo. Can't open it until christmas day though. Now to figure out how to use it as I haven't got a preamp......

[synsei]

After reading this thread (over several days) I couldn't resist and have ordered the Bushytwo. Can't open it until christmas day though. Now to figure out how to use it as I haven't got a preamp......

You don't need a pre-amp to use the BM2 Jerry, just connect your CDP up to the BM2 with either an optical or coaxial digital lead, the same goes for your PC if it has an s/pdif output, then connect the Bushy to your integrated amps CD input via the Bushy's analogue out sockets. Simple as... ;)

EDIT: Ah, just read your equipment list... :doh:

[MartinT]

Something like this will get you going:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/bte-designs-passive-pre-preamplifier-preamp-valve-or-solid-state-amps-/251374743599?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item3a871a302f

[MartinT]

I am particularly impressed at the symbiosis shown by my BM2 / Touch partnership. I should explain that my Touch has the EDO (digital output only) app and is running from a 5V Paul Hynes power supply, while the BM2 is running from a 12V battery. They are connected with a 1.5m Belden 1694A co-ax cable from Blue Jeans (http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/digital-audio/index.htm). I control it with the Squeeze Remote app for Windows 8 on my Surface 2.

I have tested ripped CDs streamed from my workstation in another room, via 100M Ethernet, and they sound far better than using my Blu-ray player as a CD transport into the BM2. That's very good, and even more impressive is how good hi-res internet streamed music sounds from the Spotify app in the Touch. There is a portrayal of fine detail and subtle soundstage layering that immediately says 'high end', not to mention the structure given to music by the excellent bass extension and great dynamics.

For the first time, I can really hear what people have been going on about when they move to a file-based system. This, at last, I could live with (I won't, because I like physical media too much). I have a feeling I'm going to be using this combination a lot more in future.

[wee tee cee]

the tisbury audio pre works very well in partnership with the bm2.......cant help but think santa would want you to make sure its working in the interim and suitably burnt in for christmas morning!!!!

[Covenant]

Martin, have you tried Radio Paradise Naim exclusive (320kb/s)? On the Touch with EDO it's very good indeed.

[MartinT]

No Jerry, but I'll give it a try. Thanks!

[MartinT]

I've also just remembered that my Touch PSU is plugged into raw mains. I shall plug it into the regenerator tonight and see whether that makes any difference.

[loonytunes]

Martin, have you tried Radio Paradise Naim exclusive (320kb/s)? On the Touch with EDO it's very good indeed.

Seems like a private session.. do you need to own a Naim in order to stream the Naim exclusive RP?

[chrism]

Seems like a private session.. do you need to own a Naim in order to stream the Naim exclusive RP?

Access it through Myapps - Shoutcast - search by bitrate 320 kbps.

I do not have any Naim stuff and it sounds great with a well recorded track ;).

Regards

[loonytunes]

Access it through Myapps - Shoutcast - search by bitrate 320 kbps.

I do not have any Naim stuff and it sounds great with a well recorded track ;).

Regards

Can this be accessed via the vTuner service? Reason I ask is that I own a Yamaha CD-N500 streamer with built in vTuner (even though I could throw Shoutcast music "at" the Yamaha due to DLNA support - but vTuner is easier).

Or I notice that with the Yamaha vTuner service you can add radio stations manually by putting in a web link (URL) - so is there a link I could stream the Naim RP service from perhaps then I could add it as a custom link just as easily?

This makes me wonder if other stations like this exist out there which I could link up in a similar manner (Linn for example).

[Covenant]

Have a read of this thread:
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?22895-Radio-Paradise-320kbs&highlight=radio+paradise+naim
The Shoutcast connection is not reliable. You can put the URL in your streamer directly (well I did).

[MartinT]

Martin, have you tried Radio Paradise Naim exclusive (320kb/s)? On the Touch with EDO it's very good indeed.

I managed to install the Shoutcast app in my Touch and found Radio Paradise Naim (it's a sight easier to find with a tablet remote app than it is using the Touch's own remote). I'll keep listening and let you know what I think.

[MartinT]

I've also just remembered that my Touch PSU is plugged into raw mains. I shall plug it into the regenerator tonight and see whether that makes any difference.

That's made another small but worthwhile incremental improvement in sound quality. I might have a look for a 5V battery and try running the Touch from one. Anyone tried that?

[magiccarpetride]

That's made another small but worthwhile incremental improvement in sound quality. I might have a look for a 5V battery and try running the Touch from one. Anyone tried that?

I'm feeding my Touch using a fairly decent linear PSU. Makes quite a difference.

[John]

That's made another small but worthwhile incremental improvement in sound quality. I might have a look for a 5V battery and try running the Touch from one. Anyone tried that?

Should make a improvement these days I think its best to get off the mains grid as much as you can.

[Theadmans]

I am very pleased with my BM2 (my BM1 has been relegated to my second system in my bedroom).

one small question - is there a way of making the BM2 remember the input you mainly use after switch off?

I have all 4 inputs used (SBT toslink 1, Virgin VBox toslink 2, SBT coax 1, Pioneer PD-S705 CD coax 2)

For some reason my BM1 always remembered that I listen mainly to input 3 (1st Coax input). On switch on the BM1 jumps straight to coax 1 (the coax connection for the SBT).

However, the BM2 always defaults to Toslink 1 (this is still the SBT but I prefer to listen on Coax).

Any ideas - how to make the BM2 behave like the BM1 and go straight to Input 3 (1st Coax) ?

Not a big deal - as it only needs a couple of prods of the select switch - but would be nice to know if this is possible.

[MartinT]

I'm feeding my Touch using a fairly decent linear PSU. Makes quite a difference.

Agreed, my Paul Hynes PSU made a great leap forward over the supplied Touch PSU. However, having learned what a battery has done for the BM2, I'm tempted to try the same for the Touch. Power consumption will be an issue, though, as it needs to drive that display although I have mine set to turn off while playing.

[MartinT]

Found a 5V battery for the Touch, so have ordered it. I'm loving the Touch/BM2 performance so far.

http://uk.cellphoneshop.net/station.html?catargetid=530009110000002090&cadevice=c&cagpspn=pla&gclid=CK7p69X9lLsCFY_MtAod0FYAeA

[magiccarpetride]

Agreed, my Paul Hynes PSU made a great leap forward over the supplied Touch PSU. However, having learned what a battery has done for the BM2, I'm tempted to try the same for the Touch. Power consumption will be an issue, though, as it needs to drive that display although I have mine set to turn off while playing.

Have you tried Soundcheck's TT3.0 mods for the Touch? You can apply them on top of the EDO mods, they push the Touch even further in terms of high-end performance. But the downside is you lose the touch screen...

[MartinT]

Hi Alex, I'm not prepared to lose the Touch screen just yet, although I may add the TT3 mods at some point when I've got everything working just right.

[marflao]

They are connected with a 1.5m Belden 1694A co-ax cable from Blue Jeans (http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/digital-audio/index.htm).


Hi Martin,

I've got the same cable in a different length between my Touch and the BM1 and I'm wondering if a "higher praised" coax cable e. g. Black Cat Cable's "Silverstar! 75" (http://stereomatic.com/products/silverstar-75) or others in the same or more favourable price range have any positive effect.

You mentioned that your new Rca cable was worth the cost therefore I'm curious if you "tweaked" also around the Touch / Dac cable chain.

Cheers,
Markus

[MartinT]

Hi Markus, no I haven't as Belden 1694A is pretty much perfect 75 ohm co-ax cable for digital audio and rendered less perfect by phono plugs anyway (the Canare plugs that Blue Jeans use are close to 75 ohm impedance with uninterrupted shielding). I wouldn't expect a fancy cable to give any improvements in this area.

The audio cables are a different matter and the silver Yannis phono cables are superb.

To be honest, if you want a big upgrade you might be better off saving your pennies for a BM2.

[marflao]

:-)
PM sent

[magiccarpetride]

Hi Alex, I'm not prepared to lose the Touch screen just yet, although I may add the TT3 mods at some point when I've got everything working just right.

As Stan had already mentioned, LCD screen adds unwanted noise. I'm being very honest when I say that you haven't heard the full potential of this transport (i.e. the Touch) until you've applied ALL Soundcheck's mods. And yes, that includes losing some conveniences by ditching the wi fi and going with the ethernet, as well as killing the screen. Also, make sure you kill the analog outs as well as all the other unwanted processes on the Touch (tt -k).

Once you get there, you're ready to start playing with job priorities and buffer sizes. I can send you some scripts that will automate this for you (providing that you know how to ssh into the Touch). The alterations to the sound quality these scripts introduce are not insignificant; in some cases, they're startling.

[MartinT]

And yes, that includes losing some conveniences by ditching the wi fi and going with the ethernet, as well as killing the screen. Also, make sure you kill the analog outs as well as all the other unwanted processes on the Touch (tt -k).

I ditched Wi-Fi early on, it's just not up to it. Also killed the analogue outputs. Just the screen to go. I'll load up TT3 and have it ready for tests.


Once you get there, you're ready to start playing with job priorities and buffer sizes. I can send you some scripts that will automate this for you (providing that you know how to ssh into the Touch). The alterations to the sound quality these scripts introduce are not insignificant; in some cases, they're startling.

Thanks, I can handle SSH. Please do send them and I'll have a play.

[Xaval]

Hi all, been away for a while... in the meantime it seems a lot of people are enjoying their BMII with great feedback as usual.

My question is regarding the headphone amp section. I have the BMI with the Venom upgrade and I recall Stan mentioning that an equivalent solution would be made available as standard with the BMII. Is my memory failing me?

edit: another question. The original BM design wasn't quite happy with passive preamps. Is this still the case?

[Covenant]

Hi all, been away for a while... in the meantime it seems a lot of people are enjoying their BMII with great feedback as usual.

My question is regarding the headphone amp section. I have the BMI with the Venom upgrade and I recall Stan mentioning that an equivalent solution would be made available as standard with the BMII. Is my memory failing me?

All I can say is that the Mk11 headphone section is tremendous and at least as good as my tube headphone amp with expensive power supply.

[Xaval]

Thanks Jerry for your input. I haven't ever heard that head amp but it looks it's built seriously as well as some of the great PSUs around it, so it's already saying a lot. If I upgrade to a BMII it will be for a 100% headphone rig so I need to factor in that.

[wee tee cee]

I find the BM2 betters my Epiphany head amp and surpassed my Musical Fidelity M1HPA. I listen with HD650s and find the combo sublime.
In relation to a passive pre I use a tisbury audio passive and find it a great combo with a number of power amps.
The head amp will benefit from being run on batteries.....there is a couple of good threads running on different battery implementations.

[Yomanze]

It's a great headphone amp loads of drive, not as natural or transparent, but bolder, than my NVA AP10H.

[Yomanze]

I used it with my Grado RS1s, which really appreciate serious current delivery headphone amps.

[Xaval]

I have a few Senns and Grados among other head stuff. My BM shines better, at least to my ears, on the high impedance side of things although the magical DT48A (5ohm!) are simply to die for with this setup.
The reason I was also asking about the passive preamp mating was precisely because down the line I want to have a go with an NVA head amp, and Neil's comment on it being more natural and transparent just "made me salivate like a Pavlov Dog" (listening to Sticky Fingers album right now for the Stones connoisseurs lol) - NVA AP10 would also make duty powering my Stax Lambda through an energizer... planning ahead :)

[clarkey555]

I am very pleased with my BM2 (my BM1 has been relegated to my second system in my bedroom).

one small question - is there a way of making the BM2 remember the input you mainly use after switch off?

I have all 4 inputs used (SBT toslink 1, Virgin VBox toslink 2, SBT coax 1, Pioneer PD-S705 CD coax 2)

For some reason my BM1 always remembered that I listen mainly to input 3 (1st Coax input). On switch on the BM1 jumps straight to coax 1 (the coax connection for the SBT).

However, the BM2 always defaults to Toslink 1 (this is still the SBT but I prefer to listen on Coax).

Any ideas - how to make the BM2 behave like the BM1 and go straight to Input 3 (1st Coax) ?

Not a big deal - as it only needs a couple of prods of the select switch - but would be nice to know if this is possible.
hi adam you need to put your bushy 2 into sleep mode.i have had similar situation as you and found sleep mode did the job nice:goodluck:

[Theadmans]

Hi Peter, thanks for the advice - I'll give it a try.

I had thought I had fixed this problem a couple of weeks ago by doing a reset but it is still playing up.

[Jerry B]

Ordered my Bushmaster 2 just before New Years.

Reasonable postage to New Zealand too.

Purchase, thanks to the discussions I read here. Thanks folks...

[Jerry B]

Received my Beresford Bushmaster 2, 6 days after ordering with Stan.
Amazing delivery speed to New Zealand, considering New Year holidays.

So, here's what I think of it.

Firstly, it's small. Will have no problem fitting it in my rack.

Plugged in with MacBook Pro, Perreaux R200i amp and Quad 11L speakers.

No burning in as yet. Listened via Audirvana Plus, CD quality rips.
No battery power yet either. On its way.

Massive Attack - Angel intro; noticed more detail
Norah Jones - Come away with me; smooth
Davis Sylvian - Ghosts; precise
The Cure - Other voices; more thump in the bass
Echo and the Bunnymen - Turquoise days - better instrument separation
Led Zeppelin - Whole Lotta Love; changes listening. Listening to parts...
Everything but the Girl - Missing (Todd Terry remix) - carries it better

These were all at low level. My two youngest teenage daughters were still asleep.

So, favourable impressions so far. Many thanks Stan!

[Jerry B]

Hey folks

I've been burning in my Bushmaster II for 150 hours (and counting). Using a mixture of CD/DVD, Mac, and SKY TV.
From past experience, 250 hours is a reasonable time for new cables and equipment.

My questions are:
1. Does it matter which input you use for burning in? i.e. a combination of the above okay?

2. Does the headphone section need to be burnt in separately from the 'analogue out' to my amp?

[MartinT]

It's usually a combination of just being powered up and putting some signal through it, so using the various inputs won't hurt. I doubt that loading with headphones will make much difference, though.

[wk233298]

I have the Bushmaster 1. Is the BM2 that much better than the BM1 ? Reading from all the new BM2 owners I am tempted to buy the BM2 as well.

Chris

[MartinT]

Is the BM2 that much better than the BM1 ?

It is another step up in SQ.

[shuggz]

Hi chaps

Been away from here for some time and looks like things have moved on big time re Stan's DACs, looks like this Bushman2 DAC is the business. I have a Caiman already and am torn between using that for the Sky HD box instead of using the on board phono outs straight into my Sansui 717 played throught Cambridge R50's, this way sounds bloody awful.

Or would the Bushman 2 be better for this? or do I use the Caiman and get the Bushman for my valve amp/Teac VRDS 20/Ariel speaker combo.

Any advice welcome but I have a feeling one way or the other a Bushman2 needs to be sampled.

Cheers
Shugg

[StanleyB]

The SKY box sounds a lot more fun to listen to with the BM2.

[MartinT]

The SKY box sounds a lot more fun to listen to with the BM2.

Yes indeedy, Norah Jones the other night and the big The Who story too, both on Sky Arts.

[shuggz]

The SKY box sounds a lot more fun to listen to with the BM2.
Fun :scratch: okay I guess I'll get a demo to see if amongst other things, it makes dialogue clearer because at the mo it's muffled.

[JakeBlade]

Stan, you have another customer... (just ordered). This will be DAC #3 in the household: joining the DacMagic Azur, and the Dragonfly.

[zilch0md]

Congratulations Jake!

I have a friend who is recommending the BM2 vigorously, so I'm really looking forward to getting one myself, but I'm waiting on answers to a couple of questions I've emailed to Stan.

On that note, searching this thread, I can't find evidence of anyone other than Stan using the Sennheiser HD800 with the the BM2's headphone amp, but Stan's posts to this thread indicate he has applied some mods to make that possible.

In the email exchange we've had thus far, Stan says an HD800 mod is now available. At this time, it does not include a 12V regulator (but rather, the same 9V regulator that normally ships with the BM2). I'm not sure what the current HD800 mod actually includes, but I completely trust Stan's opinion, of course. I have no interest in deviating from what he recommends. :)

My concern is that I have a few headphones other than the HD800, but Stan has indicated that his HD800 mod for the BM2 pretty much dedicates it for use with the HD800, so I'm trying to decide between ordering a "standard" BM2 or ordering it with Stan's HD800 mod.

Has anyone tried listening to the standard BM2 (TC-7533) with the Sennheiser HD800 (in the absence of Stan's HD800 mod)?

Another question is whether or not his HD800 mod for BM2 impacts the sound of just the headphone amp or the analog outputs, as well. If only the headphone amp is modded to suit the HD800, I could use the BM2's DAC section with an external amp, for headphones other than the HD800 and for a speaker amp to my near-field monitors. In other words, I'd get a lot more utility out of the BM2 if the HD800 mod does not impact the analog outputs.

In any case... whatever Stan tells me to buy, that's what I'm going to buy! ;)

Mike

Update: Please check with Stan regarding availability of any mods for the BM2. Thanks!

[zilch0md]

Has anyone tried listening to the standard BM2 (TC-7533) with the Sennheiser HD800 (in the absence of Stan's HD800 mod)?

Mike

A silly question, I suppose, given that this isn't a headphone forum. :doh:

[zilch0md]

Congratulations Jake!

-snip-

In the email exchange we've had thus far, Stan says an HD800 mod is now available. At this time, it does not include a 12V regulator (but rather, the same 9V regulator that normally ships with the BM2). I'm not sure what the current HD800 mod actually includes, but I completely trust Stan's opinion, of course. I have no interest in deviating from what he recommends. :)

-snip-

Mike

Update: Please check with Stan regarding availability of any mods for the BM2. (I'm posting this without his provocation - I just don't want to misrepresent him in any way.)

[wee tee cee]

BM2 works very well with HD650s. I have tried a couple of external head amps but the BM one is the least coloured. I surmise that a few folk prefer different sound characteristics the BM doesn't do that....it just amplifies what its fed. Its presentation is totally non fatiguing, a friend who has 650s gave mine a listen and was playing at ear damaging levels....Im guessing the presentation wasnt coloured to his taste

[zilch0md]

Oh, another vote for the BM2 + HD650. Thanks for sharing that!

My friend, who recently purchased the BM2 and has several headphones, is so enthralled with the BM2 + HD650 that I probably won't be able to relax until I get the HD650, too. I currently have the HD600 and HD800 (of that family), but for lack of an amplifier that can compensate the HD800's issues, I much prefer the HD600 on every amp I've tried.

Mike

[zilch0md]

Does anyone know of a portable DAP with coaxial or optical digital out for the purposing of connecting to the Bushmaster? Someone mentioned me about the Fiio X3, any experience with this? Want to make the move to DAC but kind stuck at the moment, source wise.

This is an old post from page 3 of this thread and my answer is a bit overkill, but the forthcoming SD and SDXC card-reading Sony PCM-D100 Linear PCM recorder/player offers your choice digital output or analog Line Out via a combination Mini-Toslink/TRS jack.

Expected to be released in the U.S. on March 1st, it's available from B&H Photo or Adorama as a $799 pre-order.

http://www.digitalavmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Sony-PCM-D100-c.jpg

It supports FLAC, WAV, and other formats. And if you don't want to use it with an external DAC via the Toslink output, you can use its built-in 192kHz and DSD 2.8mHz - capable DAC, for Line Out to an external amp. (Its built-in headphone amp is an afterthought.)

It runs on 4 AA batteries.

But that's a lot of money for a card-reader to Toslink out. :stalks:

Is there anything else out there that can be used as a portable SPDIF source for the BM2?

Mike

[John]

This is highly rated (not heard it myself) http://www.soundfidelity.co.uk/products/astellkern/ak100/ is portable and will play files.....Its however is not cheap

[MartinT]

the forthcoming SD and SDXC card-reading Sony PCM-D100 Linear PCM recorder/player offers your choice digital output or analog Line Out via a combination Mini-Toslink/TRS jack.

Cor, that looks worth playing with. Our Music department currently uses a Zoom H4 (which is not a bad bit of kit) but I wonder if I could persuade them to buy one of those Sonys?

http://cn1.kaboodle.com/hi/img/2/0/0/62/5/AAAAAmos1fcAAAAAAGJdBw.jpg?v=1186452180000

[MartinT]

Actually, the new Zoom H4n may be of interest. About £200.

http://www.conceptmusic.com.au/product_images/s/193/9262_zoom_h4n-angle__56350_zoom.jpg

[zilch0md]

Hi John,


This is highly rated (not heard it myself) http://www.soundfidelity.co.uk/products/astellkern/ak100/ is portable and will play files.....Its however is not cheap

I've read the Astell & Kern models AK100, AK120, and now the AK240 all have their merits as DAPs, but as expensive as they are, they don't even offer analog Line Out, much less SPDIF out. There's a company called Red Wine Audio who charge a pretty penny to modify a Line Out into these players, but still, no SPDIF out - for the Bushmaster.


Cor, that looks worth playing with. Our Music department currently uses a Zoom H4 (which is not a bad bit of kit) but I wonder if I could persuade them to buy one of those Sonys?

I hear you, Martin! Reports from Asian headphone enthusiasts (as well as recordists) indicate that this new $799 Sony PCM-D100 (pictured in my earlier post (http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?27847-Bushmaster-Mk-II-(TC-7533)&p=519791#post519791)) could be the ultimate portable player, as long as you intend to bypass its headphone amp (using either the digital out or the analog out). The headphone amp is only there as a convenience feature for field-checking your recordings. The big caveat about using these as portable players is that they have a UI that's nothing like a typical MP3 player - no playlists, no sort by album, by song, by artist, no search feature, no shuffle, etc. The UI is designed for making recordings. For playback, you navigate strictly by folder browsing. You can repeat single tracks or repeat every track in a folder, but that's about as fancy as it gets.

The $239 Sony PCM-M10 Recorder with iBasso PB2 Pelican portable, fully balanced headphone amp

http://cdn.head-fi.org/e/e3/e3536971_IMG_8234_iBasso_PB2_with_Sony_PMC-M10_Right-1067x800.jpeg

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/96/9645b7de_IMG_8229_Sony_PCM_M10_Millian_Acousitcs_I nterconnect_iBasso_PB2_Toxic_Cables_Silver_Poison_ Audeze_LCD-2_v1-1024x768.jpeg

I've been using the Sony PCM-M10 Line Out as a source for portable headphone amps for over three years now, but it only offers Line Out, from its fairly impressive but slightly thin and grainy, proprietary, 96/24-capable sigma-delta DAC, with support for only WAV and MP3 files from microSD cards or microSDXC that have been reformatted to FAT32.

This Sony PCM-M10 does not offer SPDIF out, which I'm vigorously seeking for portable use of the BM2!


Actually, the new Zoom H4n may be of interest. About £200.

I haven't researched the Zoom recorders much, but I don't believe they offer SPDIF out, either. (Thinking of the Bushmaster BM2.)

I've been looking for a portable SD card reading FLAC player to SPDIF out device (no DAC, no amp) for over three years and counting. They simply don't exist, to my knowledge.

The closest I've seen is this WAV-playing 6VDC-powered Chinese unit, which I've heard (from only one, very brief review) has a flakey UI (as do 100% of the DAPs produced by Chinese companies - many of which produce terrific DACs and amps, I have to add)...

The $250 Aune X5 Digital Audio WAV Player

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61a62btu41L._SL1500_.jpg

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61Qug9D3VbL._SL1500_.jpg

Input Interface: SD card, maximum support 32GB
Output Interface: optical fiber output, coaxial output, IIS output
Digital output error: error of ± 1ppm, jitter 0.8nS <---- That's 800 ppm
Digital Output: THD + N:-130dB
Digital output level: 0.5V p-p

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ACF8RYY
http://www.ebay.com/itm/HIFI-MINI-AUNE-X5-Digital-Audio-WAV-Player-New-without-DAC-insider-/261128280517

When I get my BM2, I should just order one of these and test it. I don't mind using WAV instead of FLAC, as that's what I've been doing for 3 years, but I have a profound aversion to poorly written, buggy UIs. And I'm afraid that if I don't like the Aune X5, for any reason, I'll have a hard time selling it used.

Does anybody want to take one for the team?

In any case, I will be buying the PCM-D100, as I can easily re-sell that if I decide to do so.

Mike

[John]

I bought a Aune media player about a year ago but returned it I hope they sorted out the software issues it was very frustrating to use

[zilch0md]

I bought a Aune media player about a year ago but returned it I hope they sorted out the software issues it was very frustrating to use

I'm disappointed to hear that, John, but I'm glad you've further discouraged me from ordering that Aune X5 player.

Mike

[John]

Its not the same model so might not have the software issues

[zilch0md]

I received tracking info for my TC-7533 from Stanley yesterday.

Soon, I will be able to hug it, and squeeze it, and... read the manual! :yay:

[zilch0md]

OK, as posted in the BM2 battery thread, I've received the BM2 and I'm really enjoying it. What a great little device! I'm very pleased!

It has only accumulated perhaps 15 hours of play, thus far, but it's really singing to me.

This morning, having previously thought its amp section wouldn't have enough power to drive the Audeze LCD-2 (planar magnetic headphones), I decided to give them a try for the first time. Whoa! This is the best yet, across my collection of headphones! The LCD-2 has a 50-Ohm impedance that is almost purely resistive and are known for scaling well with amps that output high current in addition to a lot of voltage to achieve their power rating.

I had read (somewhere?) that the BM2's amp has a lot of current relative to other amps in the same class. Surely that must be a factor in what I'm hearing with the BM2 + LCD-2. The bass frequencies are very tightly controlled, there's a TON of dyanamics, all with perfect mids and treble, having just the right amount of sparkle, despite the LCD-2's slightly shelved highs. A simple recording like Ingrid Michaelson's The Way I Am, from her album, Girls and Boys, perfectly illustrates the fabulous bass control and dynamics offered by the BM2. Best of all is the inky black silence that's wrapped around even the lowest level signals.

I know from using the Sennheiser HD800 with the BM2, that the LCD-2 isn't doing the BM2 justice in terms of soundstage and the faintest micro-details that the BM2's DAC section can provide. I've ordered a pair of HD650, which should arrive next week. These are known to offer more bass energy than the HD800, with a lot more of the HD800's air and sparkle, not to mention resolution, than the LCD-2 can deliver - which isn't known for being a highly resolving headphone, though it's very transparent and far from woolly.

To put things into perspective, I've driven the Audeze LCD-2 with headphone amps I've owned (or still own) including the Burson Audio Soloist, the CEntrance DACmini CX, a 15V-powered Meier Audio Stepdance, a 16V-powered iBasso PB2 Pelican, and two speaker amps - the TBI Audio Millenia MG3 and the Emotiva mini-X a-100 - as well as several amps that I've heard at meets, none of which can complete with what I'm hearing right now. The Bushmaster MkII is phenomenal with the Audeze LCD-2.

I suspect the $2000 Audeze LCD-3, which is known to be faster and higher resolving than the LCD-2, would be the headphone most worthy of the Bushmaster MkII's DAC and amp sections. Fortunately, I don't allow myself to spend more than $1000 on any single component, so the LCD-3 is off-limits, unless I can some day find a used LCD-3 under $1000 (not likely).

Meanwhile, I'll report back when the Sennheiser HD650 arrives - a headphone that a couple of Head-Fi folks have said works well with the BM2 -and with a DIY, OTL tube amp, called the Bottlehead Crack - which itself is considered by many to be emulated by the Bushmaster BM2's amp section - believe it or not. I haven't heard the Bottlehead Crack myself, so I don't know from personal experience, but if the Crack sounds anything like the BM2, I can understand why people consider it to be an "end-game" rig.

:D

Mike

[zilch0md]

Hi John,

[snip]

The closest I've seen is this WAV-playing 6VDC-powered Chinese unit, which I've heard (from only one, very brief review) has a flakey UI (as do 100% of the DAPs produced by Chinese companies - many of which produce terrific DACs and amps, I have to add)...

The $250 Aune X5 Digital Audio WAV Player

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61a62btu41L._SL1500_.jpg

[snip]



Don't buy this thing. I'm sorry I mentioned it, earlier.

A Head-Fi friend ordered one is very disappointed, on several counts.

The search for a portable, SD card-reading player with coaxial or optical output (for use with the BM2) continues.

Going on reports from early adopters, the FiiO X5 looks promising, at the moment:

http://fiio.com.cn/UploadFiles/main/Images/2014/1/20140118161849.png

http://www.fiio.com.cn/products/index.aspx?ID=100000055517771

Unlike nearly every Chinese-made DAP that has been released in the past couple of years, by several manufacturers, including FiiO, the FiiO X5 is reported to have very few bugs in the user interface (to be addressed with firmware upgrades) and really spectacular sound quality. When not using it as a portable source for the BM2, it could of course be used as intended - exploiting its own dac and amp with IEMs or headphones.

It will be released in a couple of months...

Mike

[zilch0md]

Has anyone here tried this XMOS Asynchronous USB to Coaxial Optical converter by the Chinese manufacturer, Weiliang?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/XMOS-Asynchronous-USB-to-Coaxial-Optical-converter-24Bit192K-with-PSU-Weiliang-/141026791919

A member at Head-Fi is recommending it: http://www.head-fi.org/t/690549/beresford-bushmaster-tc-7530-and-bushmaster-mkii-tc-7533-comparison-impressions/45#post_10328217

Mike

[John]

looks good

[Ammonite Audio]

Has anyone here tried this XMOS Asynchronous USB to Coaxial Optical converter by the Chinese manufacturer, Weiliang?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/XMOS-Asynchronous-USB-to-Coaxial-Optical-converter-24Bit192K-with-PSU-Weiliang-/141026791919

A member at Head-Fi is recommending it: http://www.head-fi.org/t/690549/beresford-bushmaster-tc-7530-and-bushmaster-mkii-tc-7533-comparison-impressions/45#post_10328217

Mike

If it's anything like the Gustard XMOS converter that I bought ( see http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gustard-U10-Native-32bit-384k-USB-to-Spdif-Converter-0-1ppm-TCXO-XMOS-Inside-/301113907287?pt=US_Sound_Card_External&hash=item461bc99857 ) then it should be excellent. The Gustard supports ASIO, which is a Good Thing in my experience.

[Tim]

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/96/9645b7de_IMG_8229_Sony_PCM_M10_Millian_Acousitcs_I nterconnect_iBasso_PB2_Toxic_Cables_Silver_Poison_ Audeze_LCD-2_v1-1024x768.jpeg

I've been using the Sony PCM-M10 Line Out as a source for portable headphone amps for over three years now, but it only offers Line Out, from its fairly impressive but slightly thin and grainy, proprietary, 96/24-capable sigma-delta DAC, with support for only WAV and MP3 files from microSD cards or microSDXC that have been reformatted to FAT32.
Well blow me down Mike, I have a Sony PCM-M10 and an iBasso headphone amp (the D2+ Boa) but I have never thought to do this with them - great stuff and thanks :D

[DSJR]

Thin and grainy ain't the DAC unless the analogue output stage is contained within. Any audible 'character' is almost certainly down to the analogue output bit I reckon ;)

[StanleyB]

Thin and grainy ain't the DAC unless the analogue output stage is contained within. Any audible 'character' is almost certainly down to the analogue output bit I reckon ;)
You are behind the times Dave ;). Different decoding methods need different support circuitries to get the best of the whole package. What works for a NOS chip won't be good enough for a different type of chip design. That's a fundamental requirement that many of the Far Eastern designers are yet to figure out. I blame it partly on their access to clean electricity in their testing facility.

[zilch0md]

Well blow me down Mike, I have a Sony PCM-M10 and an iBasso headphone amp (the D2+ Boa) but I have never thought to do this with them - great stuff and thanks :D

Thanks Tim!

When I find a portable DAP with coaxial or optical out and a UI as bug-free as the PCM-M10, I'll be putting together a "portable" Bushmaster MkII rig.

Lately, I'm enjoying the following chain:

WAV on SD Cards > USB > Resonessence Concero (SPDIF Coaxial out) > Bushmaster MkII (Analog Out) > iBasso PB2 (with JRC Muses02 in L/R and dummy buffers) > balanced out to LCD-2 Rev.1

A wee bit of resolution and transparency are lost vs. using the Bushmaster MkII's headphone out, so it's a compromise for the dynamics and bass control that come with additional power. With the less power-hungry HD650, I'm content to use the MkII's headphone out (instead of the external amp).

I'm still very pleased with your creation, Stanley!

:)

Mike

[StanleyB]

I am in the process of developing a desktop headphone amp to plug a particular gap in the market. I am basically fed up that I can't find an acceptable product for a one size fits all/most solution when it comes to headphones.

[zilch0md]

^ Yay!

[PhilofCas]

Well, thanks to Stan for spot on customer service, emailing me a number of times last night/this morning!

Order placed this morning, cheers.

Let's hope the BM2 lives up to expectations, sorting out a bit of sibilance/treble splash/reigning in a bit of glare, also giving more bass weight to my Rega Apollo.


Looking forward to giving it a whirl :)

[PhilofCas]

Received today as promised, thanks very much Stan, great service :thumbsup:

Ooooooo first impressions are very good indeed, a wholesale improvement of my Rega Apollo (not 'R). More detail everywhere, stronger clearer bass, fuller smoother overall sound, the difference isn't subtle. Before I had a tendency to reign in the volume due to glare/edginess etc, I'm now being egged on to give it some welly, such is the lack of 'digital' nasties. All what has been said before seems to be true.

Very pleased with initial results, will post more in a few days time, so far so (very) good :).

[John]

If you can move to battery its worth the extra dosh

[PhilofCas]

thanks John, is there a general concensus now which is the best one/best value for money?

[John]

Not really I think the Ankaka is pretty good but think if you get something like a bigger capacity 12v battery you can hear further improvements compared to lower powered batteries, well at least that been my experience with batteries

[MartinT]

The 20,000mAH Ankaka sounds excellent and has no shut-off problems. Recommended.

[John]

I ordered my Ankaka at the weekend and got it by Thursday and was a improvement over the mobilty battery

[DIMO]

I ordered my Ankaka at the weekend and got it by Thursday and was a improvement over the mobilty batteryWow - I placed an order Feb 10 (cheapest postage option), dispatched Feb 20, reached Heathrow March 6 and my doorstep Saturday 15, towards the long end of their 18-35 day delivery prediction.

[Wakefield Turntables]

I've just ordered the BM2 & the Ankaka battery, looks like I've gone all digital.

[Wakefield Turntables]

DAC plugged in OMFG :stalks: instant improvement in clarity and thats using a shit pair of £8 IC's from the bottom of my cable box:eyebrows:. Its only been plugged in for 30 minutes and I'm extremely happy with it. I have the ananka battery ordered so that should take things to another level (hopefully). I also understand that it improves with a little "burn-in". I must admit I wasn't expecting much but this has more than been worth the outlay. Stan, I salute you :clapclapclap:, not quite as good as vinyl but not far off.

Thanks

A

[wee tee cee]

DAC plugged in OMFG :stalks: instant improvement in clarity and thats using a shit pair of £8 IC's from the bottom of my cable box:eyebrows:. Its only been plugged in for 30 minutes and I'm extremely happy with it. I have the ananka battery ordered so that should take things to another level (hopefully). I also understand that it improves with a little "burn-in". I must admit I wasn't expecting much but this has more than been worth the outlay. Stan, I salute you :clapclapclap:, not quite as good as vinyl but not far off.

Thanks

AStick one of your Yannis ICs on it and give it a try, I find the BM2 justifies top notch wires....let us know your impressions!!!!

[Wakefield Turntables]

Im going through the process of making some new IC's, I fancy trying some of the new KLE RCA's (what a mouthful) so I should see another improvement.

[MartinT]

You won't believe what Yannis cables and the battery will do for the sound. Have fun!

[John]

The battery will take it up another The Ankaka works a treat

[garlech]

I am seriously considering one of these DACs to place between my Sonos ZP90 and CA Azur 351R.

All this talk of batteries begs the question: Does upgrading the power from mains to battery affect the quality mainly for headphone users or for DAC users as well?

Obviously when wearing headphones you are in a much quieter and closed off environment where I imagine the benefits of a lower noise floor are more pronounced whereas in a hifi situation where there is inevitable background noise I would guess the benefits to be less.

I guess where I am going with this is, would the battery upgrade be something worth serious consideration for DAC purposes (over heaphone purposes)?

[alexm84]

Just purchased the BM2 with latest chip installed. Will be my first DAC so pretty excited to see how it goes.
Stan is a great guy to deal with, answered any questions i had and made the sale quick and easy for me.

Thanks to everyone's great feedback on here for helping with the decision :)

[John]

I am seriously considering one of these DACs to place between my Sonos ZP90 and CA Azur 351R.

All this talk of batteries begs the question: Does upgrading the power from mains to battery affect the quality mainly for headphone users or for DAC users as well?

Obviously when wearing headphones you are in a much quieter and closed off environment where I imagine the benefits of a lower noise floor are more pronounced whereas in a hifi situation where there is inevitable background noise I would guess the benefits to be less.

I guess where I am going with this is, would the battery upgrade be something worth serious consideration for DAC purposes (over heaphone purposes)?
Most of us do not use headphones and noticed a big difference using batteries as well as those using headphones

[Alp]

Stan sent me a chip which had been tweaked for my Squeezebox Touch. The main difference I have noticed is that with EDO I can now get the best sound from the smallest buffer size (before I found the best sound was from a very large buffer size) and the sound is much more vinyl like as well as being more detailed. Together with my four new Temple Audio monoblocks, which have really improved the bass depth and attack, it is quite a step-up in the sound quality.

[Covenant]

Thats interesting Alastair. I presume you mean the chip that is optimised for battery use as well? I use EDO and have the buffer set to large so I will try the small buffer setting tonight.

[StanleyB]

Thats interesting Alastair. I presume you mean the chip that is optimised for battery use as well?
The Touch and Airport Express updates are in the FW after the battery update. I didn't want to run the chance of adding both the battery and wireless streamers codes in the same FW without some field trials. The last thing I want is that they clash with each other. Alastair and a few others with a Touch have been brave enough to give the combined code a try. MartinT is trying the battery only code for now, and I hope that he'll be able to try the battery & Touch code afterwards so that I can have some more data to go with.


I use EDO and have the buffer set to large so I will try the small buffer setting tonight. That would be a good idea. It will be interesting to find out if the battery code on its own is capable enough to improve the wireless streamers as well.

If the results show that the wireless streamers update makes a difference in its own right, then anyone with a battery and wireless streamer who has had the Battery FW posted to them, should email me for further information if they wish to have their FW updated with both codes.

[Theadmans]

Thats interesting Alastair. I presume you mean the chip that is optimised for battery use as well? I use EDO and have the buffer set to large so I will try the small buffer setting tonight.

Jerry - I have a Touch with EDO - how do you check whether the buffer is large or small ? Also if it is not too complicated how do change the buffer size ?

...and Stan - you are calling this a Wireless Streamer update - I take it is also beneficial if you have the Touch running wired with CAT5 cable as I do ?

[Covenant]

Easy peasey Adam:
Settings/advanced/digital output/buffer tuning experiments.
The Touch will reboot when you have made the alteration.

[Alp]

Thats interesting Alastair. I presume you mean the chip that is optimised for battery use as well? I use EDO and have the buffer set to large so I will try the small buffer setting tonight.
Jerry, I think Stan has answered your question much better than I could have. It would be interesting to see if you do notice a difference after you adjust the buffer settings with the battery mod (or none at all).

[Alp]

Jerry - I have a Touch with EDO - how do you check whether the buffer is large or small ? Also if it is not too complicated how do change the buffer size ?

...and Stan - you are calling this a Wireless Streamer update - I take it is also beneficial if you have the Touch running wired with CAT5 cable as I do ?

As Jerry said this is easy to do. If you are willing to hack the EDO Lua scripts, you can add your own customised buffer options to the menu. Most people recommend disabling the wireless and feeding the Touch with a CAT5 cable so you should be OK.