Overview
The original DP-777 DAC/preamp was a very impressive machine. Stereophile magazine was quick to add it to their recommended list of components and we had to concur their recommendation. Music through the DP-777 was so well placed, organic sounding and so lush that the soundstage in our listening room was almost “heavenly” sounding. This particular unit however took another giant leap forward when it was sent back to be upgraded to the SE version. With the SE upgrade, extensive improvements were made to the already very good sounding DAC and raised the bar of excellence even further. Compared to our resident dCS Debussy DAC, the DP-777 SE easily rivaled the Debussy and in our opinion, “dethroned” the Debussy and is now our resident DAC for the store. Mid-range was beautifully rich and full bodied. The highs were sweeter and smooth with the bass possessing greater authority and weight. For an even purer presentation, you can use the DP-777 SE as a preamp for your digital components and run it straight into your poweramp. The preamp stage alone would have put many other preamps to shame. Built quality is outstanding with a very premium finish from the main unit right up to the metal remote.
Cosmetically, the unit looks very good. Some very minor scuff marks here and there but nothing major. One very careful owner who had the unit upgraded by the US Distributor a few weeks ago so the unit has barely broken in as a SE version. We have the original box (slightly beat up so we will double box it), remote control and manual. Unit has switchable 120V/230V on the rear so it can be used anywhere in the World.
