My DMP-A8 replaced the Schiit Kara preamp, SMSL D400EX (AKM) DAC, and RPi streamer. I still have them and they sound great but the DMP-A8 (AKM) DAC is slightly more 'refined' with a smooth sound but not at the expense of detail. The one thing I notice most is the improved instrument separation and soundstage. On the other hand, the Schiit Kara setup was a little more robust in the mids.
Eversolo DMP-A8. Mac Mini M1. 8 year old PS Audio NuWave DSD DAC.
I'm streaming directly into the DMP-A8 streamer/DAC section via Roon but I can also use the Mac Mini + PS Audio DAC into the A8 balanced XLR preamp section.
