The unit will have a big improvement with better output opamps. I changed mine and it was very transparent. The main problem is the volume obtaining a 4-channel control. If you do the work yourself there are low cost kits and instructions on the web.

Another way to solve the biamp challenge, that is lower cost without some of the DCX pain, is by using 2 DEQs and sending the outputs to 2 DACs. I would use a quality DAC for the highs and a mid-fi dac for the lows (or the one in the DEQ?). The DEQ has a fair amount of attenuation to solve the volume ctrl problem, though a small pain, and I did not hear any sound deterioration through the Krell and Maggies that were playing. I plan to go this way as soon as I get feel the need to upgrade.

Linc

To me this is a no brainer. I can not imagine why anyone would pay $2000-3000 for mods to a product (the DCX) that retails for about $300. Unless you have the ability to make the mods yourself and save a bunch of money, you are so much the better to purchase the DEQX.

Among the DEQX capabilities/features (see www.deqx.com) are: Linear phase 3-way digital crossovers with the ability to achieve perfect phase, amplitude, and time matching; Inherent EQ and external tweakable EQ; Room EQ capability to address room integration issues; An easy to use computer interface with supported user group software; A built-in measurement and calibration system so you can see and solve issues that arise; Two digital and two analog inputs with full six channel remote for source selection, digital volume control, and adhoc EQ (DEQX preamp option model).

You will be so much better off with fewer hardware and software issues with the DEQX compared to the modified DCX. I highly recommend the DEQX. I've had mine for nearly five years and with the latest DEQX upgrades (which I think are included in the current production units) it continues to be exceptional. All that for a current price of just over $3000 US.

Jim

Signal > DEQ Left > Dac left > Amp
...... > DEQ Right > Dac Right > Amp

Not as simple as the DEQX, but the cost is lower and you are not tied into the DEQX dac.

-Linc

I have never heard the Copland unit so for me it is difficult to compare to the DEQX preamp unit. Remember I'm an engineer so I do not have subjective feelings for tube gear such as the Copland.

My digital sources are a Denon DVD/CD player, Directv receiver, or an Integra CD player so digital signals go directly into the DEQX without extra conversion to analog and then back to digital. I can route analog sources--FM tuner or Nakamichi cassette deck in my case into the DEQX and then have its ADC to do its thing. But my goal is to minimize the analog paths and do as much processing in the digital world as possible. The DEQX then uses its DAC to provide output analog signals to my multichannel power amp. Bottom line is fewer interconnects and minimial signal conversions along the way.

The DEQX preamp version does the 6 channel digital world volume control, input selection between two digital sources or two analog sources, and EQ with remote control which to me is worth the difference vs. their standard unit. You can also easily select between various calibration profiles with the remote. Take a look at the features and such on the DEQX site and decide which unit would work best for your situation.

Jim