Weiss New Reference Helios DAC

[Slingblade]

What was the previous DAC?

Previous DAC was an Ayre, but I've been looking for a replacement for a long time. The Weiss is a special machine.

 

[PhP]

Interesting would be MPD-6 with and without USB-X4 vs HELIOS

I think MPD-6 with USB-X4 is better. I have not tried but fiber optic improves sound to a degree that is quite interesting. Sweeter highs, better resolution.

 

[PhP]

I've had my Helios for about 2 weeks now and am still amazed by it. The constant volume DSP feature is very nice and is extremely handy when watching movies/TV while my kid is asleep. It normalizes dialogue and effects so there are no unexpected loud sounds that could wake him.

From an audio performance perspective the soundstage it creates is extremely dense and full of detail, but not an in your face presentation. It's very organic and smooth, and the bass performance is off the charts good.

A very very good DAC for sure. I tested it some weeks as a dealer.

 

[Slingblade]

New review of the Helios.

Weiss Helios Audiophile Digital to Analog Converter Reviewed

The Weiss Engineering Helios DAC is a pro audio component that comes with serious audiophile chops including room correction EQ

futureaudiophile.com

 

[Alpha121]

I have a dCS Bridge. If I get either the Helios or the MPD-6, should I just keep it and run it into either of those, or go for the direct streaming on the Helios, for example?
I would like to avoide the MPS-X as it's so expensive, but happy to keep the Bridge to run into either unit.

 

[Amir]

go for the direct streaming on the Helios

 

[Slingblade]

I use Roon directly with the Helios but I also do have a relatively inexpensive Lumin streamer that I use for less than critical listening such as Pandora. Roon direct in the Helios sounds best.

 

[PhP]

For sure WEISS Helios is a fantastic DAC with no need to fancy hyperbole technology (at crazy cost) to sound right.
I told Daniel that I would have preferred a less 502 style identity to better identity Helios as it's not a 501/502 4ch upgrade, it's much better.

 

[matthias]

I posted this in another Weiss thread but this thread here is a better place for it:

New Weiss DAC 501 / 502

Some features I'll be happy if they included in the next firmware up date. - the ability to turn off and on the Weiss dac from the web browser (Wake-on-lan sorta speak) - indication on the Weiss display if a DSP is turned on and which ones I wouldn't hold my breath for a firmware update. The...

www.whatsbestforum.com