A look at the improvements provided by upgrading the ES9038 DAC. FFT images are shown with an SDS1202X-E 200Mhz scope.
I also included a comparison of FIR filter responses
ES9038 DAC Overhaul: Sockets, Capacitors, Resistors (Video Included)
HL tears the ES9038 DAC down to the bones for a full hardware upgrade! In stage 1 of upgrades, I worked on the analog side of the board, replacing nearly all the stock parts, including: resistors, DIP-8 sockets, and capacitors. The results have been impressive, giving a much more reference leaning tone. (ELNA SILMIC Super Gold included)
A Peek at the Next Review: Sparkos Labs SS2590 Discrete Op-Amps
A short preview of the upcoming Sparkos Labs SS2590 review. This is part of Sparkos Labs “Pro Series” of discrete op-amps. I will be comparing them against Burson Audio’s V6-OPA and two of Orange Amplification discrete op-amps. Full review expected by July 4th.
Announcing the 2nd Round of HL Vintage Capacitors!
I am pleased to announce that some of my picks for the 2nd round of capacitors, have been posted on Ebay and can be found right here. This includes more MiniWatt capacitors, including a glorious looking 0.47uF 400V plus a really nice 0.15uF 160V model. I have more MiniWatts to post, so just keep an […]
Video: Converting SMD Components to Full-Size (Op-Amp and Capacitors Shown)
How to Video on Converting SMD components to Full-Size. Op-amp and capacitors upgrades are shown.
Upcoming Review of “In Your Ear” (IEM) Custom Molds (For Under 80$) – Review Posted
Edit: 7/26/19 I got these molded last night (myself, at home) and must say, I was shocked at the difference (a word I rarely use on this site, except in the literal sense). I was expecting bass to improve, but it improved way more elements than that! Expect a full review in about a week, […]
Sansui AU-517 Complete Re-Cap/Restoration | It’s Alive; Updated 3/27/19
The first part of my Sansui AU-517/717 restore guide, from recapping to finding those pesky shorted diodes. Not to mention how daunting it is just to remove and then rewire all the PCB’s! Here I hope to help shed some light on the subject.
The Mullard/Philips MiniWatt Brand of Mustard Caps! (Very Rare) Datasheets Given
A look at the first MiniWatt capacitors that were put up for sale by HL. Now there are many more types available to purchase from us!
XMOS : BlackGate vs. SILMIC ARS “Super Gold” Capacitors (& Others) Direct Comparison (testing in progress) – Photos and a Preview
Preview into the head-to-head between Black Gate and SILMIC ARS Super Gold. XMOS module based on the SU-1 is being used. This is still a WIP.
Burson Play Giveaway Winner – 2nd Attempt – Prize Claimed (1st Giveaway Finished)
I apologize about the delay in announcing the winner (from what I said on FB), I’ve been hard at work on the EP6 headphone review. I will be publishing the EP6 review tonight at some point. I did the drawing in exactly the same way as the last time, using the Pretty Random application from […]