Entech Number Cruncher 203.2 DAC

Fongolio

I just received this DAC today. I bought it used from an ad on Canuck Audio Mart. I have it hooked up to a Yamaha 5 disk cd player using optical out and to my Pioneer Elite DV-79avi DVD/DVD-A/SACD/CD player via coax out. My initial reaction is "WOW!". Unbelievable what a decent quality DAC can do for the sound. Huge bass extension, clear mids, and crystal clear highs. But it's how it's widened the sound stage that really has me blown away. The SDA's of course widen it already but some sounds are coming from outside the room. Hugely improved air around instruments too. The sound is now just so refined sounding. I still prefer the fully analog vinyl sound but I'm not using a high end transport yet either. Speaking of vinyl just yesterday I received a copy of Peter Gabriel and Friends Big Blue Ball on 45 rpm 180 gram blue vinyl. What a fantastic album for PG fans and World Music fans. And it sounds breathtaking on my system. Excellent for the SDA effect too. Highly recommended.

Anyway anyone considering an inexpensive DAC would be well served to consider the Entech 203.2. I paid $125.00, which is a little steep but I am totally happy. Makes my mediocre Yammy and my all in one Pio Elite sound like much more expensive units. Also highly recommended.