Meitner versus Playback designs

[merrillaudio]

I may be repeating a question here.

Has anyone heard the comparison between the 2? Impressions?

The length of decay, accurate bass versus bloated bass etc is of interest to me.

 

[Bruce B]

Which Meitner?

 

[merrillaudio]

Which Meitner?

This would be the MA-1 DAC.

I understand from reliable sources that the EMM labs DAC2X is much better than the Meitner however I personally have not heard them.

After Axpona, I will try to compare to the MSB analog DAC, however I am not expecting much in terms of a result even though the system is greater than $500k in cost. I don't think it is put together well but I could be wrong on all counts.

 

[Bruce B]

Well I have several of the EMM Labs units in here. I haven't heard any of the Meitner gear. The EMM Labs is top notch. I'd put the MPS-5 slightly ahead of the XDS1 though for my taste.

 

[edorr]

This would be the MA-1 DAC.

I understand from reliable sources that the EMM labs DAC2X is much better than the Meitner however I personally have not heard them.

After Axpona, I will try to compare to the MSB analog DAC, however I am not expecting much in terms of a result even though the system is greater than $500k in cost. I don't think it is put together well but I could be wrong on all counts.

I did a direct comparison between EMM Labs DAC2X and MSB Signature, and the MSB was the clear winner. Others have reported similar results.

 

[MadFloyd]

I owned both the DAC2X and the PBD-5 and used both, comparing them over a period of about a month.

Huge difference in tonal balance. The DAC2X is lean and mean. Much faster bass, very extended highs with a lot of energy in upper registers.

The PBD is darker sounding. Bass is slower but the presentation is much more analog sounding with texture. Equally detailed in its own right.

I prefer DSD on the Playback Designs - much richer sounding, but both are great DACs.

 

[CKKeung]

My friends and me did a direct comparison between Playback MPS5 and MSB IV Signature (the older non-Plus version) 1 year ago, and the MSB was the clear winner in all aspects.

The Playback owner sold his MPS5 and bought a set of MSB UMT + Platinum IV Plus after the shootout.