Sony HAP-Z1ES DSD DAC/Hi-Res Music Server.
Price: $1,998 (Sep, 2020) https://amzn.to/3jqRib8
Overall Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️½
(half star deducted from overall rating for slow file transfering)
Pros: Analogue Sound Quality, Wide Musical Sound Stage.
Cons: Slow File Transfering.
Build Quality: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highs: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Midrange: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bass: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sound Stage:⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Every time I listen to HAP-Z1ES I never thought that I’m listening to digital music playback system due to relaxingly musical, musically engaging analogue sound with accurate notes of every musical passages, Native DSD playback is very good, probably as good as it can get at this price. What makes it worth every bit of retail price is making lossy Low-Res files enjoyable with Sony DSD remastering engine. Stand alone system with main display makes it more reliable, with or without app and internet connection. A must have playback system for minimalist music lovers with discerning ears, HAP-Z1ES is staying in my system, Highly Recommended!
Associated Equipments
Denon PMA-SX11 Integrated Amplifier
Denon DL-301 MK II MC Cartridge
AudioQuest King Cobra RCA Cables
Oyaide Black Mamba Alpha AC Power Cord
TBR-DS Custom Speaker Cables.