Ithaka - DAC by Aries Cerat

[Phantom-Audio]

I recently decided to invest in the Ithaka DAC, which features a TriodeFet output stage instead of the inverted triode technology utilized in the Legend Series. The Kassandra & LE is based upon SET Output Stage.

With my extensive experience with various DACs, the Ithaka has captured my attention more than any other Aries Cerat DACs. Despite already owning the Kassandra, the pure resolution and absence of digital harshness in the sound of the Ithaka have truly impressed me. The music flows smoothly with a natural and organized tonality, drawing no undue attention to itself. Surprisingly, the DAC manages to make digital files sound remarkably analog. It's one of those rare moments where I find it difficult to articulate what I'm hearing, yet I am thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Prior to acquiring the Kassandra, I had owned the Playback Designs Dream and Syrah, various MSB models, both models of Aqua Acoustics, Lampi Big 7, Psaudio, Totaldac, and several others that didn't quite capture my interest. Additionally, I had borrowed various DACs from friends.

 

[Levitator]

I heard the Ithaca in my system for a few days and agree with your thoughts. It is an incredible DAC - it is also incredibly well designed but it’s a shame it‘s so heavy and has such a large footprint!

 

[Phantom-Audio]

Indeed, the DAC is substantial, weighing over 120KG, which may pose space constraints for some individuals. Nevertheless, beyond its considerable size and weight, the crucial focus lies on its exceptional sound quality. It delves deeper into recordings with heightened resolution and smoothness while preserving dynamics and ambient details.

I've been extremely enthusiastic about this DAC. Similar to the Quintessence Amplifier, it doesn't sound like a typical Tube-Based or Solid State DAC. Instead, it seems to possess the same level of smoothness and musicality found in triodefet amplifiers. It's detailed yet effortless, effortlessly producing a spacious musical sound stage in the room.

Do any members of this forum happen to own an Ithaka DAC ?

 

[an.vamv]

Do any members of this forum happen to own an Ithaka DAC ?

Guilty as charged...already in the 10th month of happiness.

 

[Billygxx]

I own the Homerus DAC from Aires-Cerat which sits above the Kassandra but does have the SET output. I wondered if you or anyone has had an opportunity to directly compare the Ithaca to the Homerus. The Homerus is an absolute step up from the Kassandra LE.

 

[Argonaut]

I own the Homerus DAC from Aires-Cerat which sits above the Kassandra but does have the SET output. I wondered if you or anyone has had an opportunity to directly compare the Ithaca to the Homerus. The Homerus is an absolute step up from the Kassandra LE.

Nice to see you back and posting again Billy

 

[Phantom-Audio]

I own the Homerus DAC from Aires-Cerat which sits above the Kassandra but does have the SET output. I wondered if you or anyone has had an opportunity to directly compare the Ithaca to the Homerus. The Homerus is an absolute step up from the Kassandra LE.

Looking for a distributor that owns both products simultaneously? It's a rare find! The ultimate way to compare and truly experience these top performers is by visiting the Cyprus factory. When it comes to sound, the Ithaka offers a whole new experience compared to the Kassandra Series.

 

[byrdparis]

I own the Homerus DAC from Aires-Cerat which sits above the Kassandra but does have the SET output. I wondered if you or anyone has had an opportunity to directly compare the Ithaca to the Homerus. The Homerus is an absolute step up from the Kassandra LE.

i just came back from visiting Stavros for the second time, and we were doing - Ithaka - ithaka minor and Homerus testing...
you can keep your Homerus with no sleep walking in my book, you have the Ultimate DAC i know to date.

best of luck.

 

[an.vamv]

i just came back from visiting Stavros for the second time, and we were doing - Ithaka - ithaka minor and Homerus testing...
you can keep your Homerus with no sleep walking in my book, you have the Ultimate DAC i know to date.

best of luck.

Was it the two box or three box Homerus?

 

[byrdparis]

Was it the two box or three box Homerus?

the truth that i don't know, i didn't care so much (i think it was the two)
i'm going to have the Ithaka eventually either way. the Homerus price tag is to steep for me.
maybe some day in the far future.. who knows.

 

[LL21]

the truth that i don't know, i didn't care so much (i think it was the two)
i'm going to have the Ithaka eventually either way. the Homerus price tag is to steep for me.
maybe some day in the far future.. who knows.

What made the Homerus even better in comparison with the no doubt excellent Ithaka?

 

[Aries Cerat]

the truth that i don't know, i didn't care so much (i think it was the two)
i'm going to have the Ithaka eventually either way. the Homerus price tag is to steep for me.
maybe some day in the far future.. who knows.

We listened actually to my own unit, so two levels below the top three chassis Homerus

Cheers