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Post by MikeMusic on Nov 9, 2015 15:10:58 GMT
One for me too I think !
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Post by Greg on Nov 9, 2015 23:15:41 GMT
OK, I've just completely re-read this thread (in case I had missed something) but I can find no reference to the Venom 3/4 upgrade. What is this, please and is it included in the latest upgrade scheme? I ask because I do not recognise the components and their values as they do not seem to correspond with what has been previously discussed.
Thanks in anticipation.
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Post by ChrisB on Nov 10, 2015 0:01:59 GMT
I don't know for sure, but I think the Venom thing is a mod that came about originally for the Bushmaster and is in relation to its use as a headphone amp. I think there were several versions but some are touted to have a beneficial effect on the unit as a whole.
I only have two of the (now left way behind) 7520 DACs, so please do forgive me if I haven't properly kept up either!
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Post by krzysztof on Nov 10, 2015 6:33:17 GMT
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Post by MartinT on Nov 10, 2015 6:41:51 GMT
I shall probably be doing the rework tonight so I'll document the component designations (I can't read them all in the photos).
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Post by stanleyb on Nov 10, 2015 7:21:48 GMT
OK, I've just completely re-read this thread (in case I had missed something) but I can find no reference to the Venom 3/4 upgrade. What is this, please and is it included in the latest upgrade scheme? I ask because I do not recognise the components and their values as they do not seem to correspond with what has been previously discussed. The PDF has been updated to include the components required to do the Venom-3 mod. I won't mention the Venom-3 mod specifically though. |
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Post by krzysztof on Nov 10, 2015 7:33:53 GMT
I shall probably be doing the rework tonight so I'll document the component designations (I can't read them all in the photos). Great, please report back Martin. |
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Post by MartinT on Nov 10, 2015 20:56:45 GMT
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Post by MartinT on Nov 11, 2015 14:55:37 GMT
I never asked before: Stan, what is the purpose of the DIP switches on the PCB? What if they were acidentally altered?
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Post by mcebrian on Nov 13, 2015 21:15:32 GMT
Hi! After some days testing and testing more my new Caiman Mkii against and along other great dacs like Audiolab M-dac, Halide Dac HD, etc. I can honestly say it is really really good. It surpases in some areas all of the other tested gear. But now to the useful part, I have found it sounds a little bit better using a battery (as well as many others) and by better i mean more dynamic and with clearer bass. The battery i used is Intocircuit PC26000. It works with the included cable, it stays on forever, it has 26000mA and will last loooooong. Very well built and available at Amazon if anyone is interested. that was what i wanted to say just if any of u is looking for a battery.  |
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Post by MartinT on Nov 14, 2015 9:43:38 GMT
Thanks for the recommendation. Many of the batteries some of us have been using are now discontinued, so more recommended models are very welcome.
For those of you who are still using mains power, I urge you to try battery power. The Caiman-II steps into the high end with a significant uplift in SQ.
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Post by MikeMusic on Nov 14, 2015 11:43:44 GMT
I found the (still going) Ankaka a bigger lift in quality that the Bushmaster was over a straight connection
Caiman followed later
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Post by stanleyb on Nov 14, 2015 12:30:03 GMT
I bought two Ankaka batteries and they are both still working. I never overcharged them, nor did I leave the DAC on 24/7.
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Post by MartinT on Nov 14, 2015 12:42:17 GMT
I do leave mine on 24/7 now that the SFWv4 firmware keeps my battery running.
As I've suggested several times: use a plug-in timer and set it to charge in the middle of the night (say, 2am - 6am). The battery doesn't need much charging as the current draw is minimal. The benefits are:
- You always listen to the Caiman-II on battery power only
- You take out of circuit a noise polluting switched mode power supply while you're listening
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Post by MikeMusic on Nov 14, 2015 14:46:36 GMT
I leave my Caiman on permanently.
Charge when I need do, hopefully overnight
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Post by Tweaker on Mar 31, 2016 20:29:04 GMT
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Post by MartinT on Apr 1, 2016 4:45:40 GMT
If it's truly low noise it might work well.
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Post by John on Apr 1, 2016 4:56:41 GMT
I read quite a few positive reviews on the IFI power supply
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Post by stanleyb on May 23, 2016 6:59:08 GMT
I managed to put together a kit of parts to do the sections of the modification that does not require removal of the PCB from the case. So far quite a few people capable of soldering have got the parts off me and fitted them. So this is an update to this thread for anyone reading it at some stage, and wondering if and how they can get the bits without any difficulties.
The kit consists of:
1 x Gator Firmware Upgrade chip
3 x 100uF SMD Tantalum caps
2 x Vishay 120 Ohms resistors
2 x WIMA 15nF capacitors.
If you can't get hold of the caps and the resistors yourself, just get in touch with me. I have been shipping them to as far as Australia and Canada. So shipping distance is not an issue.
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Post by MartinT on May 23, 2016 7:31:15 GMT
Nice one, Stan, and great support as usual. Thanks.
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