John Kenny Ciunas DAC with Rega Brio-R question

[Clive]

I suppose it depends what folks listen for. We used revealing OB speakers. The JKs had better resolution, speed and dynamics IIRC. If a softer more laid back sound is preferred then maybe the Rega suits (I'm overstating the differences I think, but it was a while ago now). Ciunas is a decent improvement on the JKDAC32, similar but more of it if that makes sense. John, didn't we use the Rega via a JKSPDIF converter at some point?.

Edit - yes we tried straight usb and spdif fed from the converter. The usb input on the Rega was relatively poor.

[John]

Yes we got a improvement with the converter but still not as good, we were also using a laptop with Jplay as our means to Transport

[Ali Tait]

The Sabre okay good in the bass but not as Balanced as the other JK DACs
No idea why we got such different results as we used JK version on the Rega that pushed things further but with the system we were using the JK32 was still better
I guess different systems bring different results

Yes, just goes to show, you need to try something at home in your own system.

[Clive]

With the Rega it was the sort of sound that someone might think is analogue in a stereotypical but slightly negative way (a bit like valves are warm and fuzzy as a mis-conceived stereotype). The JK (and Halide) DACs were more like what I think of as a good record deck. It sounds like a different system showed similar levels of differences but the conclusions were different, I hope this makes sense!

[Mordecai]

Great feedback. Thanks. Anyone hear both DACs with the Brio-R? Since I have both the Brio-R and Rega DAC I am hearing a nice balance of detail and warmth. I'm hearing a nice improvement using a glass toslink to the DAC. I'm just wondering if the synergy of the two units makes this kit a winner and would be lost somewhat with Ciunas. Guess the only way to know is to buy one and compare.

[tonerei]

John Kenny has a trial period so you can try and return if not what you want(just postage costs I believe).
Looking at posts above the rega sounds to be a bit like a lot of arcam stuff i.e lacking in microdetail but warm sounding.
I always thought I wanted warm analogue sound and to heck with the detail but without the detail it is just mushy mess to me anyway.
That would seem to be possibly an issue for the Rega also but haven't heard it so just guessing. Curious to see how you get on if you take the plunge.

[Mordecai]

Well, I live in Texas and don't want to pay the return shipping should I decide not to keep it. Too bad he doesn't have a US retailer. I see a used one on Audiogon for $500 US. I might buy a used one that I can resell. I still want to hear the opinions of those who have the Brio-R and compared the two before ponying up the money. It has to be a big step up or it isn't worth it.