AD1865 was build from some different factory around the world. Some may have from Malaysia, some from Philippines, some maybe from anywhere around the world. I collected some old AD1865N, probably from year 90’s and some N-K series from 2000’s. I think, Analog Device also changed the font size. Newer one got smaller font size.
It’s gonna be interesting to see how good the N-K would be, vs the lower grade N series.
The old N series got Philippines engraving on the back side. Hope I got a good batch! 😉
Mark Ashley (new Orleans)
September 19, 2013 19:02Hi Jimmy,
Did you ever test the AD1865-N vs the N-K?
I have an Audio Note Dac 4.1x now, it has the N, I’ve just ordered an NK from ebay.
Fed the chip (N) with BG NX (hi q) 6.3v 47uf x 2 in a Super-E config instead of the original VK 100uf which I had bypassed with a 0.47 NX hi-q.
Difference is literally jaw dropping! it’s like I have a different DAc.
Let me know about the chips?
Mark
Auw Jimmy
September 23, 2013 12:44Hi Mark,
You mean the N is better than the N-K?
Thanks.
Mark
January 27, 2014 11:43Hi Jimmy,
No the N-K is the superior chip.
Did you ever compare the two? I still haven’t gotten around to making comparison yet.
Mark
Auw Jimmy
January 27, 2014 13:40Hi Mark,
My understanding is you have ordered your N-K?
I have tried both. In general system, I doubt we can hear so much difference. But the 18bit seems easily become the main limitation compared with newer chips.
Thanks.