We have had quite a few excellent DAC’s in house for demonstration over the years, but I have to say I’ve never heard any DAC nor any other piece of equipment that compares with the overall experience of the Metronome. c/AQWO 2 It is quite possibly the only perfect piece of Audio equipment we have ever heard! The functionality as well as the sound reproduction is perfect. There’s nothing wanting from this unit at all. It sounds like live musical instruments and vocals. In addition, if you are the type of audiophile that likes to tweak, there is no better DAC in the world. From the remote control, you can change to either an AKM or ESS DAC chip, tube output stage (roll to any E88CC, 6DJ8, 6922 tube) on/off, or choose from eight different digital filters.
“With the Metronome c|AQWO D/A Converter, Metronome Technologie impressively demonstrates how crucial a D/A converter is as the central component of a modern hi-fi chain. It is simply breathtaking to see the variety of detail, the resolution and the clarity that the Metronome c|AQWO D/A Converter delivers to the user”
HiFi Plus…”I also compared it thoroughly with a similarly priced streamer/DAC from another highly respected brand, and there was no doubt in my mind that the Metronome was more musically coherent, with a deeper and tighter bass and sounding more dynamic and detailed without being fatiguing.”
HiFi+…”It was lively on drumkit and percussion, subtle on delicate brushed cymbals and snare, and captivating andengaging on sax, guitars, and vocals. Its weight and control on the bass guitar or double bass were outstanding, and this helped to convey the rhythm and swing of the music.
I could spend a long time listening to streamed music on the c/AQWO 2. Worth the asking price? Absolutely!”
Greg Weaver of PT Audio had this to say about the Kalista Mantax DAC, which effectively is an upgraded version of the c/AQWO 2 DAC.
“Because the Mantax is capable of presenting so many possible voices, there is simply no way I can begin to pin down a single, definitive specific attribute or signature sonic characteristic of its playback envelope. What I can say is that the Mantax is capable of delivering any number of stunningly engaging and musical acts!”
The real takeaway here is that the inspiring amalgamation that the Kalista DreamPlay X and Mantax deliver form one of the most superlative, most profoundly musically expressive digital sources available today, combined with an unmatched level of versatility and adaptation, and level of stylishness that will inspire an unequaled sense of pride of ownership. Individually, there is simply nothing else remotely similar to the Mantax available from any other manufacturer.
“Together, they present a digital music solution that not only places them in a class of their own but secures their place among the finest performers available today.”
