Auzen to offer High end opamps for their cards!

Info suggests, Auzentech is set to launch a new line-up of very high end opamps for upgrading their cards that accept DIP8 chips. I posted further info and a list of production modules set to make their debut. They have a very nice lineup of opamps and they should push the sound quality of a Prelude 7.1 or X-Meridian for example much further.:yepp: Such things have been talked about by DIY enthusiasts and Auzentech owners but now we actually have the options to order Auzen products with these opamps installed and fully tested. further info and LINK
I have my sights on some 627's or 637's:up:
What do the current Auzen owners think about this development?

so they will have a lineup of cards that will have sockets?

I bet they will charge a premium.

Better to have a friend at IC shop and mod the card itself!

They already do. The X-Meridian 7.1 has FULL sockets and the Prelude allows swapping of the front opamps. As far as the price goes the opamps they are considering selling are premium grade and not cheap at all.

Hi, ignorance here. Can somebody tell me what an opamp does, in the context of a soundcard anyway?

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Originally Posted by Strafe

Hi, ignorance here. Can somebody tell me what an opamp does, in the context of a soundcard anyway?

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Makes it louder.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Strafe

Hi, ignorance here. Can somebody tell me what an opamp does, in the context of a soundcard anyway?

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When the analog sound comes out of the DAC it needs a final buffer/amplification section. People are starting to understand the importance of these chips. Considering they are the final stage of amplification they can Help or hurt the sound quite a bit, depending on the grade of opamps used.
The quality of the amp is related to the quality of your sound.:yepp:

Uh oh...now I have to stress/OCD about which OPAMPs are better to upgrade to! 0.o

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Strafe

Hi, ignorance here. Can somebody tell me what an opamp does, in the context of a soundcard anyway?

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You can op amp roll to tweak the sound signature to your liking. The Prelude and other various Auzentech cards have socketed op amps, which allow you to switch op amps without the need to solder. I modded my XtremeMusic with LM4562 op amps, but I had to solder them in because they are not socketed.

I think this is a good idea if Auzentech can keep the price equal to, or lower than, buying your own op amps. Considering they will buy the op amps in bulk, it seems realistic and achievable. If not, then you may as well just purchase your own to put into your card. It's fools work.

Sure, IF you want too use DIP8's on the Prelude. ALL of the opamps Auzen is offering are SOIC8 and single channel chips. You would need to buy TWO and a adapter and solder them on. Such as the OPA627's they are single channel opamps.

BTW, since you added LM4562's to your X-Music you know how much of a difference good opamps can make on a soundcard. Seeing how you removed opamps worth 20 cents and replaced them with amps worth $5 you should have noticed better sound quality. Some don't understand how important they actually are and how much they can influence the sound signature.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Yukon Trooper

You can op amp roll to tweak the sound signature to your liking. The Prelude and other various Auzentech cards have socketed op amps, which allow you to switch op amps without the need to solder. I modded my XtremeMusic with LM4562 op amps, but I had to solder them in because they are not socketed.

I think this is a good idea if Auzentech can keep the price equal to, or lower than, buying your own op amps. Considering they will buy the op amps in bulk, it seems realistic and achievable. If not, then you may as well just purchase your own to put into your card. It's fools work.

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Price is important. If Auzentech had better prices, they'd not have to send out Gorilla marketing folks to spam them off on folks.:rolleyes: WOW $5 OpAmps makes the card cost 100% ($100 US) more, that's a sweet deal, NOT!

@Yukon Trooper, Have you tested out other opamps besides the LM's?
When I started using those they just hit the market a little before the released of the X-Meridian soundcards. There are plenty others that can give you a very good sound signature.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

Sure, IF you want too use DIP8's on the Prelude. ALL of the opamps Auzen is offering are SOIC8 and single channel chips. You would need to buy TWO and a adapter and solder them on. Such as the OPA627's they are single channel opamps.

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They gonna offer browndogs with the opa627? ;)

I replaced opamps in my motu 828, the difference is dramatic!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by cadaveca

They gonna offer browndogs with the opa627? ;)

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Yes they are according to the info I received.:yepp:
Those are nice sounding. The OPA627's are single channel surface mount IC's so they will require special adapters.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by jackies

I replaced opamps in my motu 828, the difference is dramatic!

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Yes it can be very dramatic depending on what opamps are used on the card to begin with and which opamps you use to replace them with.

browndogs ARE the adapters.:fact:

;)

Yes, I know what browndogs are thx, I have a couple of them sitting here. They are not the only company to sell opamps adapters though.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

@Yukon Trooper, Have you tested out other opamps besides the LM's?
When I started using those they just hit the market a little before the released of the X-Meridian soundcards. There are plenty others that can give you a very good sound signature.

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I only used the LM4562's because I got them as free samples. I have three external DAC's, so I don't have any plans to change the op amps again.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Yukon Trooper

I only used the LM4562's because I got them as free samples. I have three external DAC's, so I don't have any plans to change the op amps again.

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I have somewhat of a opamp collection. They just seemed to multiple and I still order them when I read spec sheets of good ones or people tell me to try certain ones out. I am starting to test out very high end models also. They are pricey but you can hear the difference. I was going to suggest that if you like more bass then what the LM's have you can try out the OPA2227's. They are popular as they are nice and clear but have a very good bast response. The chip has that typical laid back burr-brown sound with their glossy highs, recessed mid ranges. They don't have that tubby bass some get out of the other BB's.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

I have somewhat of a opamp collection. They just seemed to multiple and I still order them when I read spec sheets of good ones or people tell me to try certain ones out. I am starting to test out very high end models also. They are pricey but you can hear the difference. I was going to suggest that if you like more bass then what the LM's have you can try out the OPA2227's. They are popular as they are nice and clear but have a very good bast response. The chip has that typical laid back burr-brown sound with their glossy highs, recessed mid ranges. They don't have that tubby bass some get out of the other BB's.

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Post us some links to those Opamp sites, maybe some of their prices. I think the recent storms might have damaged my card:(. Since I've been playing with 7.1 I know I want a discrete Out Put for the Back Surrounds and Not just a rear Center for 6.1 like my CL-X-FI. It looks like a Prelude might be in my rig in a week or two:) Then I will be looking at the OPA2227 and OPA2228.

http://focus.ti.com/docs/prod/folder...t/opa2228.html

Have you tried the OPA2228 yet?

Actually no, I have been thinking of checking out the OPA2228 but haven't got around to it. The Prelude only accepts one amp for the front channels but which amp you use can change the signature quite a bit. I buy my opamps from the manufacturers. Finally pulling the trigger on the Prelude?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

Actually no, I have been thinking of checking out the OPA2228 but haven't got around to it. The Prelude only accepts one amp for the front channels but which amp you use can change the signature quite a bit. I buy my opamps from the manufacturers. Finally pulling the trigger on the Prelude?

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One for the front channel is all I need and to be honest with ya', all I truly would want. As I've said before, I love Music in 2Ch Stereo unless it is DVD Audio. Even with DVD Audio though, I found myself listening to the 24/96 and really loved 24bit/192KHz Hotel California 2Ch tracks the best. Yes, I'm pulling the trigger, the only question is when? In 3 days or 10.

Auzentech is now offering the opamps!! LINK

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

Auzentech is now offering the opamps!! LINK

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But they're only 4 US Dollars here.

Something else I've been reading lately.

http://audioreviews.blogspot.com/200...o-op-amps.html

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Originally Posted by Donnie27

But they're only 4 US Dollars here.

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The 2228, have been around for awhile. Same as the 2134's they are mainstays in DIY audio and have been used in many consumer grade audio devices. They are only ever considered mid grade. The 2228's are worth about $4-5 bucks depending where you buy them. Everybody has their opinions of opamps and it depends greatly on what device they are tested in and how. I have tested many,many opamps as they can change the sound card to sound exactly how you like it. Are you still set on the OPA2228? -I doubt they will have the same clarity as the LM4562's.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

The 2228, have been around for awhile. Same as the 2134's they are mainstays in DIY audio and have been used in many consumer grade audio devices. They are only ever considered mid grade. The 2228's are worth about $4-5 bucks depending where you buy them. Everybody has their opinions of opamps and it depends greatly on what device they are tested in and how. I have tested many,many opamps as they can change the sound card to sound exactly how you like it. Are you still set on the OPA2228? -I doubt they will have the same clarity as the LM4562's.

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I love the differing opinions though and this guy picked the AD8066 or something I've not even considered or even heard it in action. What I look for a things I've heard myself and if the opinion or view is similar to my experience. Rob when I say I have, I have and I've haven't I have NOT. Where I do value what he says is that he's DEAD ON the about the Grado's. I know no two folks have the same hearing, tastes or even sense sound the same way.

Bud's of mine talk about darkening their overly Bright Grado's, I just called them too harsh for me. I didn't kill my hearing while in the Army, I don't listen to Playa Gansta Bass turned up loud. Though I love bass Heavy and Tight when I call on it. I want it to sound like this guy. his hit list.

My Girl - Temptations
Bernadette - 4 Tops
Aint That Peculiar - Marvin Gaye
Ooh Baby Baby - The Miracles
To Many Fish In The Sea - The Marvelettes
Uptight (Everything Is Alright) - Stevie Wonder
Heat Wave (U) - Martha & The Vandellas
This Old Heart Of Mine - Isley Brothers
I Heard It Through The Grapevine (2 recordings) - Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight & Pips
Where Did Our Love Go (U) - Diana/Supremes
Since I Lost My Baby - Temptations
For Once In My Life - Stevie Wonder
My Guy (U) - Mary Wells
Your Precious Love - Marvin Gaye/Tammy Terrell
You've Really Got A Hold On Me - The Miracles
Love Child - Diana/Supremes
I Guess I'll Always Love you
Dancing In The Streets - Martha & The Vandellas
Don't Mess With Bill - The Marvelettes
What's Going On - Marvin Gaye
Standing In The Shadows Of Love - 4 Tops
Mickey's Monkey (U) - The Miracles
Cloud Nine - Temptations
Nothing's To Good For My Baby - Temptations
My Baby Loves Me - Martha & The Vandellas
You Keep Me Hanging On - Diana/Supremes
You Beat Me To The Punch - Mary Wells
Little Darling (I Need You) - 4 Tops
I'm Ready For Love
The Way You Do The Things You Do - Temptations
I Can't Help Myself - 4 Tops
Roadrunner - Jr. Walker & The All-Stars
You're All I Need To Get By - Temptations
You Can't Hurry Love - Diana/Supremes
Shop Around - The Miracles
Ain't To Proud To Beg - Temptations
My Cherie Amour - Stevie Wonder
It's The Same Old Song - 4 Tops
How Sweet It Is - Marvin Gaye
Take Me In Your Arms (And Rock Me A Little While) - Brenda Holloway
Ain't No Mountain High Enough (2 recordings) - Marvin Gaye/Tammy Terrell, Diana/Supremes
My Baby Must Be A Magician - The Marvelettes
Love Is Like An Itching In My Heart - Diana/Supremes
Beauty Is Only Skin Deep - Temptations
Ask The Lonely - 4 Tops
Going To A Go-Go - The Miracles
I was Made To Love Her - Stevie Wonder
Hitch Hike - Marvin Gaye
I Second That Emotion - The Miracles
Please Mr. Postman - The Marvelettes
Jimmy Mack (U) - Martha & The Vandellas
I Hear A Symphony - Diana/Supremes
Shake Me, Wake Me (When It's Over) - 4 Tops
I'm Gonna Make You Love Me - Temptations
Get Ready - Temptations
The Hunter Gets Captured By The Game
Stop! In The Name Of Love - Diana/Supremes
That's What Love Is Made Of
Nowhere To Run - Martha & The Vandellas
Seven Rooms Of Gloom - 4 Tops
Pride & Joy - Marvin Gaye
(I Know) I'm Losing You - Temptations
Two Lovers - Mary Wells
I'll Turn To Stone - 4 Tops
Come See About Me - Diana/Supremes
Stubborn Kind Of Fellow - Marvin Gaye
How Long Has That Evening Train Been Gone
If I Were your Woman Gladys Knight & The Pips
My World Is Empty Without You - Diana/Supremes
The Tracks Of My Tears - The Miracles
I'm Wondering - Stevie Wonder
Can I Get A Witness - Marvin Gaye
The Girls Alright With Me - Temptations
Shoo Be Doo Be Doo Da Day - Stevie Wonder
Reflections - Diana/Supremes
What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted - Jimmy Ruffin
Baby I Need Your Loving - 4 Tops
Quicksand... - Martha & The Vandellas
Reach Out...I'll Be There - 4 Tops
You Beat Me To The Punch - Mary Wells
The Bells - The Originals
Shotgun - Jr. Walker & The All-Stars
Fingertips (pt2)- Stevie Wonder
Hey Girl - Stevie Wonder
What Are You Gonna Do When I'm Gone (U) - Kim Weston (submitted by Chuck Whaley)
Still Water Runs Deep - Four Tops (Chuck Whaley)
All in the Game - Four Tops (Chuck Whaley)
My Baby - Temptations
The One Who Really Loves You (U)- Mary Wells
This Old Heart Of Mine - Isley Brothers
My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left) - David Ruffin
It Takes Two (U) - Marvin Gaye/Tammy Terrell
Honey Chile - Martha & the Vandellas
To Busy Thinking About My Baby - Marvin Gaye
When Your Young And In Love - Marvelettes
Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing - Marvin Gaye/Tammy Terrell
Still Waters Run Deep - Four Tops
If I Were Your Woman - Gladys Knight & the Pips
I Want You Back - Jackson 5 (see below)
It's Growing - The Temptations (thanks to Catherine J. Lewis)
Agent Double O Soul - Edwin Starr(thanks to Catherine J. Lewis)
I Can't Get Next To You - Temptations (thanks to John Coe)
I want A Love I can Feel - Temptations (thanks to Anthony Parker)
Heart Breaking Guy - Supremes (thanks to Anthony Parker)
...And countless other Album tunes and "B" sides

Add the rest of the gang and they have more hits than Elvis, the Rolling Stones and Beatles combined. I love the Stones too:)

Who wants to recommend the best OPAMP for gaming and a little heavy metal on the side? ;)

I am a headphone guy now...using Audio-Technica ATH-A900 headphones plugged directly into the Prelude.

Here is the Auzen list:

Model: OPA 627AU + Adaptor
Model: OPA 627SM + Adaptor
Model: OPA 637AU + Adaptor
Model: OPA 637SM + Adaptor

Model: AD797AR + Adaptor
Model: AD8620BR + Adaptor

Search head-fi for those op amps you've listed. That's probably a good place to start.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Yukon Trooper

Search head-fi for those op amps you've listed. That's probably a good place to start.

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What about the AD8066 and honestly do they carry over to Analog out on the card to an amp as well as headphones?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Zorlac

Who wants to recommend the best OPAMP for gaming and a little heavy metal on the side? ;)

I am a headphone guy now...using Audio-Technica ATH-A900 headphones plugged directly into the Prelude.

Here is the Auzen list:

Model: OPA 627AU + Adaptor
Model: OPA 627SM + Adaptor
Model: OPA 637AU + Adaptor
Model: OPA 637SM + Adaptor

Model: AD797AR + Adaptor
Model: AD8620BR + Adaptor

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I have tested out the 627's,637's and AD8620's. All are great opamps and a improvement over the LM4562's. None of the SM versions are available yet and neither is the AD797's. I think the 627 and 637's may be the way to go for you. I find the 637's have a bit more high frequency extension so you may want to try those out. All will provide better sound then what you have now.

So opamps are post digital to analog conversion. If im outputting my soundcard via digital coax and my speakers are decoding the digital stream are the opamps bypassed?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Strafe

So opamps are post digital to analog conversion. If im outputting my soundcard via digital coax and my speakers are decoding the digital stream are the opamps bypassed?

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Yes! Opamps only apply to Analog out.

hey guys, check this out. http://www.auzentech.com/site/products/opamp.php

make your own 500 dollar sound card!!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Monkeywoman

hey guys, check this out. http://www.auzentech.com/site/products/opamp.php

make your own 500 dollar sound card!!!

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Yeah that is what we are talking about.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Strafe

So opamps are post digital to analog conversion. If im outputting my soundcard via digital coax and my speakers are decoding the digital stream are the opamps bypassed?

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Yes the opamps are the last stage after the DAC's they are used for signal conditioning and amplification. If your going digital, don't worry about opamps.
Just to note: if your using a Prelude, you will have MUCH better sound quality using analog then digital, unless you have a very high quality receiver that has better DAC's then the card.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

Yeah that is what we are talking about.

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Sure, but those prices are a little steep to say the lease.

Sorry for the n00b question, but does it only take one OPAMP for stereo (Front Right and Front Left)? I ask this because it looks like the $59.99 price tag is for one OPAMP packaged in a clear plastic case.

Actually for the OPA637/637's it is two chips soldered to a adapter as OPA627 and 637's are single channel opamps. OPA627/637 are said to be one of the best audio opamps there is and they are expensive. I have seen the OPA627's as upgrade modules for CD players @ $116.15...the prices at Auzentech are reasonable.

So I only need to buy one OPAMP for the Prelude for $59.99 if all I listen to is 2-channel sound?

Yes. The Prelude will only accept one replacement for the front channels anyhow. Replacing that opamp will improve your sound quality in the front channels and front case headphone jack. If you use that.

Would most people be able to tell the difference in quality from the stock opamps and the OPA 627AU on a midrange home theatre setup?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

Yes. The Prelude will only accept one replacement for the front channels anyhow. Replacing that opamp will improve your sound quality in the front channels and front case headphone jack. If you use that.

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I pick up my Reel to Reel tape player/recorder today... That hurt my chances of also getting the Prelude. Still might do something used though, oh well, back to the drawing board.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by lowfat

Would most people be able to tell the difference in quality from the stock opamps and the OPA 627AU on a midrange home theatre setup?

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Sure, The 627's have more clarity and a "warmer" sound to them. You may want to improve the playback system before you start improving your source though. I think you would be able to tell the difference easily.

Do you guys think it is possible that Auzen could release a sound card some day with upgradeable DACs in addition to OPAMPs? Damn Auzen is becoming the savior of the sound card industry in my opinion...very cool stuff! :)

The DAC's are a good idea and one that has been suggested by many people at different times. You never know how they will go next. I think the high end opamps was a good move, this will allow users to make their card sound even better.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

The DAC's are a good idea and one that has been suggested by many people at different times. You never know how they will go next. I think the high end opamps was a good move, this will allow users to make their card sound even better.

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You think they'll really do it?

Oh BTW Reel to Reel arrived Dead:( First bad EBay deal in 18 months.

The new higher end SM unit modules are said to be available some time in March. The SM units are packaged in a TO-99 metal casing. The SM model opamps are less prone to EMI/RFI..etc and used for applications that require precision amplification with little to no margin for error such as medical, military, aerospace..etc. I cannot comment on if these would sound better then normal DIP9 or SOIC8 versions as I have yet to test any. I am interested and may have to buy a set for personal use and to test.

I just bought the "OPA 637AU + Adaptor" model. It came in the mail lastnight. I should be able to install it tonight.

So you are saying the "OPA 637SM + Adaptor" is a higher quality version of the "OPA 637AU + Adaptor"? Argh...I should have waited if that was the case! ...oh well

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Zorlac

I just bought the "OPA 637AU + Adaptor" model. It came in the mail lastnight. I should be able to install it tonight.

So you are saying the "OPA 637SM + Adaptor" is a higher quality version of the "OPA 637AU + Adaptor"? Argh...I should have waited if that was the case! ...oh well

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http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/2/5022305317.jpg:clap:

You do get to a point of Diminishing Returns. The only sad part about the Pursuit of Audio Nirvana is that you'll Never, I repeat, get there. I never met an Audiophile who had enough or was satisfied LOL!

since last summer,

OPA2134
LME49860
LT1364
LM4562
OPA4132
LT1358
OPA2227
LT1226
LT1115
LT1028
AD8620
OPA2107
OPA637
OPA627 next month from auzen

probably missing a couple..

so, i should just stop @ 637?

heck no, im getting AD797 later today

and after 797/627, im building my own opamp :)

4 x opamps per channel :D

how does one stop rolling? :shrug:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NapalmV5

since last summer,

OPA2134
LME49860
LT1364
LM4562
OPA4132
LT1358
OPA2227
LT1226
LT1115
LT1028
AD8620
OPA2107
OPA637
OPA627 next month from auzen

probably missing a couple..

so, i should just stop @ 637?

heck no, im getting AD797 later today

and after 797/627, im building my own opamp :)

4 x opamps per channel :D

how does one stop rolling? :shrug:

---

And the folks who sell this stuff, their Gorilla Marketers and etc....[Korean Prostitute's accent], "Will Luv You long time".[/Korean Prostitute's accent]:rofl: The sad part is that in a week or two there'll be something else that's a *MUST HAVE. Who's enjoying this the most, the listener, heck no, it is the Companies selling this stuff LOL!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NapalmV5

since last summer,

OPA2134
LME49860
LT1364
LM4562
OPA4132
LT1358
OPA2227
LT1226
LT1115
LT1028
AD8620
OPA2107
OPA637
OPA627 next month from auzen

probably missing a couple..

so, i should just stop @ 637?

heck no, im getting AD797 later today

and after 797/627, im building my own opamp :)

4 x opamps per channel :D

how does one stop rolling? :shrug:

---

The 637's are nice that is what I am using right now. Amazing clarity and high end extension. :yepp: You stop, by using the ones that suit you best for the time. I think the replaceable opamps will be a common trait on Auzentech cards so keeping a supply of quality opamps will be good thing to do. As for building your own, I am designing my own adapters for a particular use. Already have them laid out in the PCB software. :yepp: I am interested in trying out the AS797's the specs sheets look very nice.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

The 637's are nice that is what I am using right now. Amazing clarity and high end extension. :yepp:

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You've said that about how many different ones now?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Donnie27

And the folks who sell this stuff, their Gorilla Marketers and etc....[Korean Prostitute's accent], "Will Luv You long time".[/Korean Prostitute's accent]:rofl: The sad part is that in a week or two there'll be something else that's a *MUST HAVE. Who's enjoying this the most, the listener, heck no, it is the Companies selling this stuff LOL!

---

thats what i said before last summer when i thought a better opamp wouldnt do much.. basically pointless

then i get opa2134 and i was blown away at the difference it made.. and its what got me rolling..

besides its an investment

well idk bout anyone else but i certainly enjoy all i listen to way more than i did before to 1 cent opamps :shrug:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

The 637's are nice that is what I am using right now. Amazing clarity and high end extension. :yepp: You stop, by using the ones that suit you best for the time. I think the replaceable opamps will be a common trait on Auzentech cards so keeping a supply of quality opamps will be good thing to do. As for building your own, I am designing my own adapters for a particular use. Already have them laid out in the PCB software. :yepp: I am interested in trying out the AS797's the specs sheets look very nice.

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after its done and all post it up.. and if its smtg im interested in.. ill be your customer :)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NapalmV5

thats what i said before last summer when i thought a better opamp wouldnt do much.. basically pointless

then i get opa2134 and i was blown away at the difference it made.. and its what got me rolling..

besides its an investment

well idk bout anyone else but i certainly enjoy all i listen to way more than i did before to 1 cent opamps :shrug:

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No, I never said it was pointless. These subtle differences are just enough to have folks chasing that ever elusive *Perfect Opamp. My only complaint about all of this is how easily folks throw around terms like; Amazing, Excellent, Incredible, Awesome only to get a new one a few weeks later and it becomes Amazing, Excellent, Incredible, Awesome and etc...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NapalmV5

after its done and all post it up.. and if its smtg im interested in.. ill be your customer :)

---

I am gonna build a few of them. I doubt they will be very much if I do end up selling them possible $3 for parts. They are just for personal use on my own soundcards. I buy opamps for my own use and tuning my cards to my own personal taste. There is no perfect unit out there if there was everybody would be using that one. It is a preference on sound signature. You must have you favorites by now.

@NapalmV5, Many say the OPA637's sound better then the OPA627's I have tried both and I like both. If I had to choose one though it would be the OPA637's.

is the opamp upgrade worthwhile for someone who is only using 5.1 surround speakers,i presently am using klipsch promedia ultra`s
thanks

The Prelude has the front channel opamps socket so you would be improving the front channel signal/sound quality sent to your Klipsch's. Better quality amps provide better quality sound. If they are worth it or not depends on you I would say. I actually have a collection of opamps that I personally like, many of my friends do as well.

I bought the "OPA 637AU + Adaptor". After a few days of listening I am quite happy! I wouldnt say it was an amazing difference from the stock Prelude OPAMPs, but it definitely brought out details I did not notice before. I am now excited at the prospect of a sound card with replaceable DACs some day. =P

I was recently shown the light and converted to become a full time headphone user and I am also pretty confident my audio chain is bit perfect, so I definitely now know if I am hearing a difference in audio quality. I also run my audio flat (no DSP, etc.) since I think of myself as a purist (in constant training ..heh) and I want to hear all audio as intended if possible.

So...I recommend upgrading your OPAMPs if you are still trying to decide. Just make sure you have a good audio source and a bitperfect audio chain (good luck with that) if possible. A good pair of headphones are recommended too! ;)

The sound that opamp provides will "change" after a bit. they need some "burn-in". Then you'll be REAL happy ;)

@Zorlac, Sure using higher grade opamps will always give you better quality they are a major part of the sound signature of the card. I like the OPA637's also and have been using them for awhile now. You will rarely notice a night and day difference in audio at this stage but the quality changes are always there...more crisp clean clarity better range, better extension. Just an overall better sound, that is more pleasing to the ear. Enjoy.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by ROBSCIX

@NapalmV5, Many say the OPA637's sound better then the OPA627's I have tried both and I like both. If I had to choose one though it would be the OPA637's.

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do you know how soon the 637sm will be available?

Sometime this month, is the info I received.