Multichannel DACS: ESS Sabre ES9008S versus ES9038PRO

[Roborad]

I have been interested in updating the DACS in my multichannel system as the DACS in my Classe SSP-800 are probably becoming somewhat outdated. The two multichannel DACs that I have interest are the ones in the exaSound E38 Mark II and the significantly more expensive Merging + NADAC. The exaSound uses a higher rated DAC: ES9038PRO than the more expensive Merging + NADAC: ES9008S. I realize implementation is a factor but am wondering if the less expensive exaSound E38 Mark II would have an edge based on the quality of DAC. Has anyone had experience with both or have an opinion if there would be a significant impact on sound quality. Could the quality of implementation outweigh a lower rated DAC in this case? Below is the information on the ESS website concerning their individual DACS. Thanks for any input!

 

[Kal Rubinson]

1. The chips, themselves, are not definitive. The implementation is.
2. Add to your list, the Okto DAC8 Pro. It is limited to 24/192 and to DSD128 but is otherwise an appealing alternative.

 

[Roborad]

Thanks, Kal! I had thought about the Okto but have not seen any "mainstream" reviews yet (of course, you would know on whose review we are all waiting!).
As always Kal, thanks for all you do for the multichannel community!

 

[Audiophile Bill]

1. The chips, themselves, are not definitive. The implementation is.
2. Add to your list, the Okto DAC8 Pro. It is limited to 24/192 and to DSD128 but is otherwise an appealing alternative.

Kal - do you use this yourself and if so what did you compare it to? Also are you using mch dacs in the context of your stereo system or home cinema?

 

[Kal Rubinson]

Kal - do you use this yourself and if so what did you compare it to?

I bought one to try it. Compared to my exaSound e38/II.

Also are you using mch dacs in the context of your stereo system or home cinema?

In my (non-)stereo system.

 

[Audiophile Bill]

I bought one to try it. Compared to my exaSound e38/II.
In my (non-)stereo system.

How did it compare to you ExaSound?

In your “non-stereo” system - is this for music and how are your configuring?

 

[Kal Rubinson]

How did it compare to you ExaSound?

No comment.

In your “non-stereo” system - is this for music and how are your configuring?

NYC system
DACs: exaSound e38/II (via USB or LAN), Okto DAC8 Pro (via USB
Control: Coleman 7.1SW
Amps: 3 x Benchmark AHB2 (mono) for L/C/R, McCormack DNA1, Rev. A for SL/SR (Also 3 x Classe Sigma Mono for backup)
Speakers: 3 x Revel Studio2 for L/C/R, 2 x Revel f206 for SL/SR, 3 x JLAudio f110/e110 subs
Oppo 105 for ripping via LAN but also playable via Parasound P7, rarely