Metrum octave - wanted to borrow or temporary swap

[buddyev]

I recently bought a new amp - a Primare i32 - and am finding it to be not so voice friendly with my Rega dac.

I would really like to try out the Metrum octave in my system.

Would anyone with an Octave or something with a similar sound signature care to swap dacs for a week or two? I have a Rega dac and an Eastern electric minimax.

[Equaliser]

Metrum Octave is a very laid back sounding DAC.

[kelossus]

Fantastic DAC imo. Has a very similar presentation to TDA1541 CD players. Deep rich bass and smooth mid-range and treble.

 

As defqon mentioned its not gonna leap out at your straight away on a A/B comparison but it is very non-fatiguing and musical. I would like to compare a MkII to the Klein Dac.

[AudioGeek]

I have one, but does not help as I am in Sydney. However, I had the Rega dac a while ago and find the metrum much better.

Strange that the Rega would have an issue with your Primare gear.

[buddyev]

Thanks guys. 

I've only had the Primare a couple of weeks and I'm still getting used to it but its done what I hoped it would do for my system — its more dynamic, more open, more detailed than with the Arcam which is quite a safe and warm amp.  The Rega and Primare actually sound really good on most things that i listen to — theres no real problem —  but the jury is still out is on voices which seem to have lost a bit of their sensuality and roundness. On the other hand listening to the choir on Purcell's Ode to St Cecilia at the moment  I can hear every individual voice in a way I haven't before. There is so  much more detail in the music - I'm still getting used to that.

Everything's a compromise I suppose — but its good fun trying things out.

Edited July 1, 2015 by buddyev

[AudioGeek]

Well if thats the issue the metrum will provide just as much if not more detail and air. It will also bring warmth and sensuality to vocals - I found vocals a real strong point of the metrum. Very analogue sounding.