Aqua La Scala MKII Optologic Dac Owner Testimonial

[Synaxis]

I found the sound I was looking for in the NOS Telefunken (see post #34 in this thread). This tube pulled things together for me with the La Scala. While I still own the La Scala I rarely use it anymore, now putting my focus into the Lampizator Golden Atlantic TRP3.

The Siemens is similar to the Tele except is has a touch more magic in the midrange vs. the Tele.

What do you like about your Lampi vs the La Scala?

 

[Synaxis]

Thanks! That definitely helps.
John

Happy to help John.

 

[Designsfx]

What do you like about your Lampi vs the La Scala?

There are many things I like about the TRP3 over the La Scala but of course it would be very difficult to list all of the nuances. Overall the TRP3 produces a much larger more pronounced presentation with fairly more detail.
The La Scala provides a great presentation but I’ve found that things sometimes become too congested if there is a lot going on in the music. The TRP3 provides better separation, clarity and depth in these situations. While the stage is generally somewhat larger I would say that the La Scala is close to equal when it comes to imaging but the TRP3 exceeds that with regard to stage depth.
The wide array of tubes that can be used with the TRP allows one to push past what the La Scala can offer and though frustrating in the beginning one can quickly learn which tube pairings offer the best results based upon specific genres of music or just their system in whole.
The TRP3 digs deeper in bass reproduction and produces high frequency information with a little more extension than that of the La Scala. It’s also possible to tweak the TRP to create more focus in the midrange or to accentuate more low end with tube rolling. It’s a versatile piece of gear!

 

[Synaxis]

There are many things I like about the TRP3 over the La Scala but of course it would be very difficult to list all of the nuances. Overall the TRP3 produces a much larger more pronounced presentation with fairly more detail.
The La Scala provides a great presentation but I’ve found that things sometimes become too congested if there is a lot going on in the music. The TRP3 provides better separation, clarity and depth in these situations. While the stage is generally somewhat larger I would say that the La Scala is close to equal when it comes to imaging but the TRP3 exceeds that with regard to stage depth.
The wide array of tubes that can be used with the TRP allows one to push past what the La Scala can offer and though frustrating in the beginning one can quickly learn which tube pairings offer the best results based upon specific genres of music or just their system in whole.
The TRP3 digs deeper in bass reproduction and produces high frequency information with a little more extension than that of the La Scala. It’s also possible to tweak the TRP to create more focus in the midrange or to accentuate more low end with tube rolling. It’s a versatile piece of gear!

Thank you for sharing. Very helpful.

 

[JohnP]

I bought the La Scala DAC to go along with the La Diva transport. The sound from this combination is amazing. I compared the SPDIF connection to the I2S connection. No contest! The I2S connection is much better.
I also tried different types of Ethernet cables using the I2S connection. This also made a huge difference. I settled on an Audioquest Diamond Ethernet cable. I ordered an Ethernet cable from Aqua thinking Aqua would know how to make an excellent Ethernet cable. It’s been about a month and I haven’t received it yet. When I do receive it, I’ll post again about what I hear.
I also did some tube swapping. I listened to about a dozen different ECC81/12AT7 tubes. My two favorites by a large margin were the JJ ECC81 and the Mullard 10M. I slightly preferred the JJ ECC81. It was just a bit more nuanced. I also tried the Telefunken ECC801S. It was lush but not as nuanced as the JJ and the 10M. I think it is interesting to note that the JJ had a completely different plate structure from all the others.

John

Update: I received the Aqua Ethernet cable to use with the I2S format. I like it better than the Audio Quest Diamond. The Aqua Ethernet cable was more transparent and open, real nice improvement.

John

 

[Backo NYC/SF]

Wow, I am impressed that you tested the La Scala against the T+A 3100 HV generation and preferred the Aqua. Sure, the Aqua is the better value proposition, but I would have expected the T+A to come out on top.

The La Scala uses ECC81 type tubes, not ECC82. So you would need a Telefunken 801s. But I tested it and can´t recommend. It´s like the complete opposite of a Mullard ECC81.
If you like the Mullard CV4024 late military type, then try to get your hands on some older ECC81 Mullards from Blackburn. They have the same signature, but are in all aspects the better tube. Way better top end resolution while still being smooooth. If you can´t find Blackburns, you could also go for Heerlen Netherlands production - sometimes also found as Philips Miniwatt brand.

I have an Aqua La Scala MkII and want to replace the tubes. Where’s a good source for the Millard’s in the US? Thanks!

 

[facten]

I have an Aqua La Scala MkII and want to replace the tubes. Where’s a good source for the Millard’s in the US? Thanks!

Maybe check with Brent Jesse

 

[Backo NYC/SF]

Maybe check with Brent Jesse

Thanks!

 

[rgmd11]

I have an Aqua La Scala MkII and want to replace the tubes. Where’s a good source for the Millard’s in the US? Thanks!

12AT7 Tubes in Stock

 

[Backo NYC/SF]

12AT7 Tubes in Stock

I was about to order and there are options for the tube. Balanced triode. Low noise and microphonics, etc.
Low noise and microphonics make sense but is “balanced triode” a consideration?
Thanks

 

[Synaxis]

Thanks!

Check your tubes immediately from him (or anyone). I've now received four bad tubes that were supposedly "perfect NOS".

I never had a tube tester until recently so I wasn't able to test them so they went into a drawer until it was time to use them.

I just tried a pair of RCA 6SN7's I bought from him a year ago yesterday and one of them was complete junk.

I used to take their word for the condition of the tubes. Now I test every tube myself immediately.

 

[Designsfx]

I was about to order and there are options for the tube. Balanced triode. Low noise and microphonics, etc.
Low noise and microphonics make sense but is “balanced triode” a consideration?
Thanks

Yes- balanced should definitely be a requirement especially with new or NOS tubes. The tube used here is a dual triode- meaning two elements within the same package. In this case the circuit uses each side for a different function, unless they are running parallel then it would use both elements equally. Sometimes when purchasing used tubes you’ll see test results with different numbers, this reflects more or less wear for each element within the same tube. Sometimes this doesn’t matter if the numbers are in the higher range and will be used in parallel but if you’re relying on each for a different purpose within the circuit you’ll definitely want the elements to be as closely matched (or balanced) as possible.

 

[Backo NYC/SF]

Yes- balanced should definitely be a requirement especially with new or NOS tubes. The tube used here is a dual triode- meaning two elements within the same package. In this case the circuit uses each side for a different function, unless they are running parallel then it would use both elements equally. Sometimes when purchasing used tubes you’ll see test results with different numbers, this reflects more or less wear for each element within the same tube. Sometimes this doesn’t matter if the numbers are in the higher range and will be used in parallel but if you’re relying on each for a different purpose within the circuit you’ll definitely want the elements to be as closely matched (or balanced) as possible.

Thanks!

 

[Backo NYC/SF]

I have an update regarding tube replacement in the La Scala.
After talking to Scott at Arcadia, he recommended Either the Genalex - Gold Lion, the Telefunken NOS or the Mullard.
The Teles were the “best” in his list followed by the GL’s and Mulliards.
I’ve ordered the Gold Lions as the “factory” La Scalas come with Reflecktor tubes and the Genalex are manufactured at the same factory and I felt more confident ordering them new and with matched triodes as well as low noise & microharmonics.
More updates coming.

 

[dnnaudio]

Just done comparing two ECC801S with La Scala Telefunken and Siemens. I ended up with the Telefunken ECC801S - more neutral and precise. Both Siemens and this I heard significant improvement over stock Russian tubes. In past I have done tube rolling with CDP using 12AX7 tubes so I had a gut feel on what can be expected with top NOS tube upgrade and was not disappointed. The Siemens is lush and warm similar to stock so it is a great way to upgrade sonics while maintaining tonality. The Telefunken transforms the La Scala to a more neutral DAC while still maintaining a touch of midrange warmth. Happy with the results its like having two DACs, one lush and warm and the other neutral.

 

[Synaxis]

Just done comparing two ECC801S with La Scala Telefunken and Siemens. I ended up with the Telefunken ECC801S - more neutral and precise. Both Siemens and this I heard significant improvement over stock Russian tubes. In past I have done tube rolling with CDP using 12AX7 tubes so I had a gut feel on what can be expected with top NOS tube upgrade and was not disappointed. The Siemens is lush and warm similar to stock so it is a great way to upgrade sonics while maintaining tonality. The Telefunken transforms the La Scala to a more neutral DAC while still maintaining a touch of midrange warmth. Happy with the results its like having two DACs, one lush and warm and the other neutral.

I've tried 10 different tubes in it and each had a nice difference.

In the end the Mazda's were my #1 choice with Amperex Holland being a close #2 if looking for musicality with an open, airy presentation with full pace.

 

[dnnaudio]

Is it just me or does anyone else feel the power switch of the La Scala feels rather too light to inspire confidence, like almost no resistance when turning? I'm sure this was by design I wish they made it to feel a bit more firm.

 

[Emperyan]

The power switch of my La Scala feels rather solid when turning. There is a very clear resistance.
I am not digging the flimsy power toggle on the LinQ, but the La Scala feels perfectly fine for me.
Maybe it´s just your specific unit?

 

[JohnP]

Is it just me or does anyone else feel the power switch of the La Scala feels rather too light to inspire confidence, like almost no resistance when turning? I'm sure this was by design I wish they made it to feel a bit more firm.

The La Scala I had has a solid power switch. The fit and finish on the La Scala is top notch. You should send yours back to Aqua and have them install another power switch. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the touch and feel of a solid power switch.

 

[dnnaudio]

Maybe there are batches of the La Scala where the power switch is lighter than usual. It's not that I feel no resistance with mine when turning, it's just a bit on the light side, noticably lighter than turning the selector switch. I don't think there is anything wrong I'm just used to gears w/ solid feeling power switches. The Telefunken ECC801S seem to have settled further and the highs now real smooth, maybe a bit too much. It would now seem the Siemens ECC801S has more energetic highs than the Telefunken, though mids voiced warm. I might try to go back to it and give another listen.