Topic: Absolutely thrilled with the sound quality of the RME ADI-2 FS DAC
The RME ADI-2 FS DAC has exceeded all my expectations. This is a superb piece of engineering that serves mixing studios as well as audiophile needs. Sonically it is in the same league as the Chord Hugo 2, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ and the Benchmark DAC3 but costs less than half.
The ADI-2 FS DAC is a steal of a deal.
No other DAC offers so much control over every possible parameter with clear easy to follow displays. This is the audio enthusiast’s ultimate toy.
With the EQs defeated, this presents the clear unvarnished truth – perfect for studio use.
On the other hand the independent 5-band parametric EQs can be easily deployed to tackle room acoustic problems in an audiophile’s home or alter the signal to cater to a specific taste.
The Remote is very useful for adjusting the volume, changing sources and applying EQ curves with the push of a button from the comfort of your chair.
The person who authored this comprehensive 72-page User Guide deserves special recognition. This sets a new benchmark on how Product Manuals should be written. It is obvious a lot of care and thought went into designing this refined piece of audio gear and the author goes into great lengths to explain every design decision.
Before comparing other high-end DACs, I was pretty satisfied with the ASUS XONAR Essence STX II PCI Express soundcard. It is an audiophile grade soundcard, the best you can buy for your PC.
In a head to head A/B comparison the RME ADI-2 DAC sounds smoother, more refined and more liquid. The difference is clearly audible when you play the first 25 seconds of Enya’s Shepherd Moons, Track 1.
Stereophile Magazine listed the Mytek Brooklyn DAC under Class A Recommended Components (Vol. 40 No.4 p.83). The RME ADI-2 DAC deserves the same Class A rating. I am not sure if Stereophile reviews studio gear for professional use.
If any other audiophile manufacturer designed the ADI-2 DAC preserving the same sonic quality and list of features they would have priced it at $3,000.
If any audiophile is contemplating on adding a high-end DAC, I would highly recommend keeping the RME ADI-2 on their short list. It may be the last DAC they would ever need.
Yes, it is that good!