Review on Enhanced Resolution Preamplifier - Micca OriGen G2 by Leticia Wilhelmsen

For background information I have been evaluating various DACs over the last few months and currently I have 6 for comments and ratings - they are iFi ZenDAC, Soundavo HP-DAC1, Schiit Modi 3, SABAJ D3, FX Audio X6 and Micca OriGen 2. I'm constantly switching between them using two excellent passive (tank built) GOHIFIAUDIO S1 RCA audio switches. . This switcher model can work with 4 different audio devices with virtually no signal loss or distortion. You can find it here on Revain at (just copy and paste the link below into your browser): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085W1PPHL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1My first estimate completed. Only use powered speakers (I don't usually use headphones, although I've recently started using some headphones). The powered speakers used were Edifier S3000 Pro, Edifier R2000 DB, Edifier R1850 DB, Edifier S350DB (2.1 system) and JBL 1 Series 104. The USB cables used were updated Audioquest Pearl models and the RCA cables used were both versions of World's Best Cables or by Blue Jeans Cables (their LC-1). I also recently added the absolutely superb (creates a world of different USB sound quality) networked air conditioner and iFi Purifier 3.0 USB reclocker to the mix. So now about Micca Origen2. In a word, a very competent performer. The music it produces is transparent and balanced, no particular area stands out from the crowd, and it creates a larger, more relaxed soundstage, spreading instruments from far left to far right. Some might call OriGen 2 boring at times, but it certainly isn't - please read on. DACs are made by various instruments. With that in mind, for me the OriGen 2 doesn't initially draw attention or move the music forward and in your face like some DACs do. Using the example of classical music or any orchestral ensembles, you will feel that the sound stage is shifted back a bit and at the same time expanded from left to right. Well, some DACs first excite you by throwing the music right in your face, meaning they move the soundstage forward in a plane. Some of these other DACs may have a sense of immediacy, but their sense of depth may suffer. Now remember that I listen to music on my desktop PC because I work and socialize 6-8 hours a day. , and photo editing in Photoshop (aside from being an audiophile, I'm also a photographer). And I'm a critical listener. As I mentioned above, the music is balanced and there isn't a single area that requires attention (again as with some DACs). This balanced sound lends itself well to prolonged listening. However, the term "balanced" should not be taken to mean softness - far from it. When you need "immediacy," just turn up the volume a little. When you do this, Gen 2 retains the balance and a sense of depth from front to back, as well as the "immediacy" or engagement that so many are looking for. When there's bass, the Gen 2 does a great job of giving you the ax you need. Mid and high frequencies are processed delicately without trying to mask anything. With good source material, some high frequencies, such as B. stringed instruments, an almost silky shine (no creaking). One thing I love about this DAC that some other DACs lack is that if you want to plug in headphones you have two headphone jacks - one for the larger version and a separate one for the 3.5mm version. If you only want to listen to headphones, simply flip the front switch to the headphones position and your speakers will NOT play (headphones only). Similarly, if you just want to go back to the speakers, toggle the switch back to the speaker icon and wallaaaaaaa. You will now hear your speakers without using your headphones (if they are still connected). So. This extraordinarily small DAC (which will shock you when you first open it) is far from small in the audio department, that's for sure. But as always YMMV - everyone uses their gear differently. I don't play rock or high-pitched music. Large orchestral pieces are one of the best indicators of the musical quality of audio equipment - I learned that a long time ago. Also, I try to upgrade all my cables, including USB cables, RCA or 3.5mm plugs, and in some cases power adapters. Small tweaks like these can often make a big difference, allowing sound quality to shine through with a wide variety of devices. goes further and it's definitely not like other DAC devices. - ------------ ------------------------------------- - ------------ -------------------A NOTICE. 07/06/2020 I edited and corrected the first review. Over time I have come to appreciate this Micca MiriGen G2 DAC. So for those of you checking this review, yes it has changed. My changes now included more positive feedback on sound quality, soundstage, and more. And I also changed my original rating from 4 to 5.