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Laiv Harmony R2R DAC Review

Entertainment


Introduction

Introduction

Hi, I'm Adrien Alexander with The Absolute Sound. Merry Christmas and happy birthday! Today, I'm reviewing the Harmony DAC by Laiv Audio. Let's get started.


Who is Laiv Audio?

Before I became a reviewer for The Absolute Sound, I was curious about Laiv Audio. I discovered them through Alvin Chee, the owner of Denafrips, who mentioned that his friend was starting Laiv Audio. I reached out to Laiv Audio and received the Harmony DAC for review.

First Impressions

The packaging impressed me; it's sleek and elegant, reminiscent of Apple products. The box includes:

  • A serial card
  • Introduction of the company
  • Warranty information
  • Quick start guide with pictures
  • A sleek pouch for the DAC
  • A well-designed remote control

Specifications

The Harmony DAC is an R2R DAC, which uses resistors for a more analog-like sound. Compared to digital chip-based DACs, R2R DACs generally offer a unique listening experience. The Harmony DAC comes with a large display and has options for non-sampling and oversampling. It features various inputs, including I2S, USB, coaxial, and optical.

Using the Harmony DAC

Navigating through the options is easy with the included remote. You can adjust brightness, choose inputs, and even perform firmware upgrades seamlessly. The DAC supports up to 768kHz and DSD512 through USB and I2S, while optical and coaxial support up to 192kHz.

Design and Build

The DAC comes in black or silver and can fit nicely into a rack without heating up excessively, which is crucial for electronics.

Sound Quality

Out of the box, the Harmony DAC sounded refined and smooth. After 100–200 hours of burn-in, it opened up even more, delivering a spacious and forward sound. I paired it with streamers like the PS Audio AirLens and HiFi Rose 150b, both of which sounded fantastic.

Music Tests

I compared the Harmony DAC's output to vinyl on various tracks:

  • Chuck Mangione's "Hide and Seek" (Live at the Hollywood Bowl): The snare drum and bass were pronounced, and the DAC recreated the live venue feel excellently.
  • The Doors' "Riders on the Storm": Jim Morrison's voice and the instruments were incredibly forward and spacious.

Conclusion

For $ 2,700, the Harmony DAC offers exceptional value, competing with DACs in the $ 5,000–$ 6,500 range. Laiv Audio offers a 30-day trial, so you can test it yourself. Keep an eye out for more products from Laiv Audio, including future streamers.

In summary, the Harmony DAC might be the product of the year in its price range, offering excellent build quality and sound performance.


Keywords

  • Laiv Audio
  • Harmony DAC
  • R2R DAC
  • Adrien Alexander
  • The Absolute Sound
  • Non-sampling
  • Oversampling
  • USB input
  • I2S input
  • Sound quality
  • Burn-in
  • Streamer compatibility
  • 30-day trial

FAQ

Q1: What type of DAC is the Harmony DAC by Laiv Audio?

  • The Harmony DAC is an R2R DAC, which uses resistors to offer an analog-like sound.

Q2: What inputs does the Harmony DAC support?

  • The DAC supports USB, I2S, coaxial, and optical inputs.

Q3: How does the Harmony DAC handle different formats?

  • It supports up to 768kHz and DSD512 through USB and I2S inputs, while optical and coaxial support up to 192kHz.

Q4: Does the Harmony DAC come with a remote control?

  • Yes, it comes with a remote control that allows you to adjust brightness, choose inputs, and perform firmware upgrades.

Q5: How does the Harmony DAC compare to other DACs in its price range?

  • The Harmony DAC offers exceptional value at $ 2,700, competing with DACs in the $ 5,000–$ 6,500 range.

Q6: Can I try the Harmony DAC before committing to a purchase?

  • Yes, Laiv Audio offers a 30-day trial period. If you're not satisfied, you can return the DAC.