The test setup
Contents
We tested the Kinki Studio CHoco Sound EMEI in our reference system. That consists of
- Sonnet Pasithea d/a converter
- TAD Evolution Two loudspeakers
- Driade Flow 405 speaker cable
- Van den Hul The CNT interlink
- Yeti Power cables
- Yeti Reference filter
Thank you Jaap. I also watched your video Nilai and Yamaha, considering Nilai is a very good option for the money. And now CHoco gets very good reviews, and it’s very hard to evaluate without the possibility of listening to them directly. I have very lively dynamic speakers (Audio Nirvana 10”Alnicos) with very good imaging and detail but sometimes gives fatigue, so I have to choose my amp accordingly. I managed to short list as 1) Nilai amp or 2) Nuprime Amg sta amp + a passive volume switch/preamp such as Schiit Kara and 3) CHoco integrated. It’s nice to see people have similar shortlists. I try to get as much as possible information, opinions and listening experiences… and you’re one of very few people with that experience. Thank you…
Curiously I was also deciding between the Nilai and the choco. I understand they are different proposals but I can work with either. My main concern is the fact that you report the issue with the fuse. You are the second reviewer to mention that.
I bought the choco a few weeks ago and am waiting for it’s arrival. DTC companies are a very interesting proposal but if they not deliver the support that may be a huge problem.
Keep up with your unique approach and you’re off to be a reference in the Hifi community.
Cheers
I know, it’s hard to evaluate the sound in mind, how would you describe the differences between Choko and Nilai? I’m also torn in between, in my research. With using a passive volume switch/preamp they are almost in the same price range. Which one would you prefer for highly efficient (95db) speakers?