由 Teac UD501 走到 Eversolo DMP-A8

p76marco

原來咁就十年。
十年前由htpc轉mac mini夾ud501。中間專ud503，之後又轉rasberry pi/ipad做source。但一直都無一體化的streaming system。左駁右駁。
上年開始想，係唔係再stay 在原來的日系。睇左一年，如果要照顧黑膠唱盤analogue out，又要繼續用返原有的active speaker同xlr 線，好似dmp-a8係唯一較多人講的選擇。除買file外、streaming主要係apple music。
想左一年之後真係落實換機。可能因為相差年期都遠，又唔同左廠，一轉之後發覺成個音場係兩回事，黑膠就更加唔使講，音樂感同層次都有明顯進步。睇黎又可維持低燒一會兒。

p76marco

聽左一兩日的感覺，換左A8後，同一套器材，低音弱左，無咁"punchy"。人聲係順耳左，音樂比之前離箱，但無咁前。因小弟接觸得唔多其它器材，其實唔知咁係唔係叫analogue左。

p76marco

以下純粹for fun，用AI去cross check我的感覺

why i feel dmp-A8 is less punchy

There could be several reasons why you’re perceiving the Eversolo DMP-A8 as less “punchy”—a term often referring to bass impact, dynamic transients, and overall energy in the sound—especially if you’re comparing it to something like the TEAC UD-503, which has a warmer, more full-bodied presentation that can emphasize bass and mid-bass for a more immediate “punch.” The DMP-A8’s sound signature is generally described as neutral, transparent, and smooth (often called “Velvet Sound” due to its AKM DAC chips), with well-controlled bass that prioritizes detail, texture, and extension over raw emphasis or bloom.    This can feel less aggressive or “punchy” if your ears are accustomed to a colored, warmer DAC, but it’s not inherently flawed—it’s more revealing and system-dependent. Here’s a breakdown of common factors based on user reports and reviews:
1. Sound Signature and DAC Differences
•  The DMP-A8’s neutral tonality can come across as “thin” or less impactful in the bass if your previous setup (e.g., UD-503) added warmth or mid-bass boost, making transients feel softer or more controlled rather than explosive.   Reviews note excellent bass texture, rumble, and punch in absolute terms, but it’s precise and layered without exaggeration, which might lack the “slam” of warmer devices.   If the music isn’t bass-heavy or your system isn’t optimized, this neutrality can highlight weaknesses elsewhere.
2. System Matching and Setup Issues
•  Speakers/Headphones and Amp Compatibility: If paired with bright or forward speakers (e.g., certain B&W models), the DMP-A8’s transparency can amplify harshness or thinness, reducing perceived punch by making the sound feel lean or edgy.   Users report this with amps that lack current delivery or are brightly voiced—switching to warmer amps like Marantz or Rotel can add body and impact.  Room acoustics (hard surfaces) or speaker placement (direct toe-in) can exacerbate this, making bass feel diffuse.
•  Connections and Outputs: Using RCA vs. balanced XLR can affect dynamics—some note slightly stronger bass via RCA in certain setups.  Running direct into a power amp might limit volume or gain, leading to perceived weakness at lower levels. 
3. Streaming Source and App Limitations
•  The built-in Tidal or Qobuz apps on the DMP-A8 have been criticized for sounding “lightweight” with reduced deep bass extension compared to external sources like Tidal Connect from a phone or even a TV app.    This could stem from internal processing; switching to Connect or other inputs often opens up the sound, making it cleaner and more punchy.  Streaming in general can sometimes lack the fullness of local files or CDs for some users. 
4. Settings and Adjustments
•  DAC Filters and EQ: Try experimenting with the DMP-A8’s DAC filter options (e.g., soft roll-off) to add warmth or bass emphasis—the default might be too sharp for your taste.  The parametric EQ can help boost mid-bass for more punch, but it only applies to internal playback or digital inputs via analog outputs.   DSP/room correction might inadvertently thin out the bass if not calibrated properly. 
•  Burn-In or Warm-Up: A few users mention improved bass alignment and punch after 100-200 hours of use, as the unit “settles in.” 
5. Power Supply and Upgrades
•  The stock switching PSU works well, but upgrading to a linear power supply (e.g., Teddy Pardo or LHY) is frequently recommended for better dynamics, deeper bass, and overall punch, as it reduces noise and enhances stability.   Cables (USB, interconnects) can also influence this—better ones might add weight.
Overall, the consensus from forums and reviews is that the DMP-A8 isn’t inherently lacking punch; it’s highly resolving and performs best in balanced systems, often shining after tweaks.     If it’s new or mismatched, that’s likely amplifying the perception. Start with app switches, filter tweaks, and placement adjustments—if it persists, consider auditioning with different gear or posting your full setup details on audio forums for targeted advice.