SACDmods.com
Modifications for the Sony DVP-NS999ES SACD player.
The Sony DVP-NS999ES represents their new generation of SACD players, all based on DVD-video designs. The NS999ES is nearly identical to the DVP-NC555ES in circuitry, but it has a little more stable transport. The engineering in the player is well thought out. Sony powers the video and transport off of a switching power supply and the audio off of a separate linear power supply. While the DAC chips are mounted on the main board, which is mostly powered by the switching power supply, a 5 volt line is run from the linear power supply to power the audio DACs exclusively. This is an example of well thought out engineering because the audio components of the player are completely isolated from the noise of the switching power supply. The analog board is built around full sized components rather than surface mount, which makes component changes easy. Overall, this is a very nice player, but not quite worth its retail price.
The sound does leave much to be desired, but Sony did leave the groundwork for an excellent audio player. I did find the SACD sound to seem muffled and lacking in bass and dynamics. Imaging was imprecise, and the bass was somewhat boomy. The player was also notably harsh.
The modifications are designed with clarity in mind. I install the D-Clock to smooth out the sound and squeeze a little more detail out of the digital signal. The output stage is completely reworked with new Analog Devices opamps and large Auricap coupling capacitors for the front channels rather than the stock Elna electrolytics with a film bypass. The muting transistors are even removed for added clarity as muting is not necessary with a voltage output DAC. The power supply is revamped with HEXFRED diodes and larger filtering capacitors.
The sound is clean, clear, smooth, dynamic, while the bass has punch and control. In all, the sound is radically improved over what it was. If you feel like you are listening through a pair or earmuffs, then this mod is definitely for you!
Details:
DEXA "NewClassD" D-Clock Precision Master Clock Generator--This is a new clock design by Lars Clausen, formerly of LC Audio. Accuracy is rated at +/-1ppm of rated frequency and the new clock generates a true square wave output. The D-Clock has a unique microtransformer coupled output that eliminates ground loops in the clock circuitry. This clock measures and sounds superior to the LClock XO3. Clock modifications make any CD player sound remarkably smoother and more detailed. Most notably, you may find yourself able to sit and listen for hours at a time when you may have become tired of listening to more than a few albums previously.
Specifications:
Accuracy: +/- 1ppm
Jitter: 1.5pS
Df(9-24V): Max 1Hz
Control Functions: Host Vcc
Power Supply Requirements: 9.00 - 24.00 Volts DC 20 mA
For more information on the DEXA D-Clock click image!
Audience Auricap 4.7uF 200V Metalized Polypropylene coupling capacitors--Installed as coupling capacitors following the new AD826 opamp on the front channels. Auricaps are much more transparent than any electrolytic capacitor, even the Black Gates, and a much smaller value may be used and still have the same bass response of a electrolytic capacitor ten times it's value! While not the cheapest, the Auricap is the best capacitor I have ever heard!
Analog Devices AD826 dual PDIP opamps--Installed in place of the NJM2114 opamps that Sony uses stock. The AD826 is one of the most dynamic and cleanest opamps I have ever used. It has a relatively high current output for an opamp, and will therefore have a more massive and powerful sound. The front channel opamp is also biased into full Class-A operation.
Harris/Fairchild HEXFRED Diodes--Installed on the power supply to the analog stage and DACs, the soft recovery diodes provide clean power to enhance DAC performance.
Black Gate 1000uF 16VDC Capacitors--Installed in the analog power supply for additional filtering. The Black Gates are much larger than the stock capacitors and also offer a power reserve for the opamp output stage: thus, firming up the bass response while dropping the noise floor.
Muting Transistors Removed from the analog output stage for all channels. Muting transistors can introduce noise in the signal and are not needed.
Modification Packages:
STEREO: All of the above, but only the front channel opamp is replaced. Multichannel outputs remain in stock form. $396.00
MULTICHANNEL: All of the above, and all opamps in the analog stage are replaced with the AD826. $416.00
All prices include several hours worth of professional installation.
Warranty is 1 year on modifications!
Try the SAPC-1: Super Audio Power Cord
The only power cord with integrated filtering. Click here to go to the product page.
$299.95
All prices include several hours worth of professional installation.
Warranty is 1 year on modifications!
SPECIFIC PURCHASE AND SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS:
GENERAL PURCHASE INSTRUCTIONS:
Shipping Options
United States of America: Return shipping and handling is $25.00 in the continental U.S.A. for cash/check orders, and PayPal shipping is calculated by percentage (5% of mod total). The shipping charge pays for shipping supplies, handling, extra packaging (if necessary), pickup, and the actual shipping costs themselves. I will choose the carrier of my choice unless the customer specifies. Typically, I will use DHL as their ground service is a day faster than UPS. Customers in Alaska and Hawaii need to contact me for a shipping estimate.
Next Day Air, Second Day Air, and Three Day are available at higher shipping rates. If you want these services, then contact me for an estimate. Please include your zip code, package dimensions, weight, and whether your address is residential or commercial.
Canada: Please contact me for a shipping estimate. Average shipping costs are $40.00 by UPS, Canadian customers are responsible for all taxes.
International: International orders are accepted, but a processing fee may apply. Also, international orders are shipped by the carriers above only. Be prepared to pay a lot of shipping if you are outside of North America. Shipping typically by USPS.
Payment Options
Google Checkout, Money Order, Cashier's Check, Personal Check, and Cash. Make checks and money orders payable to "Matthew Anker" and enclose them with the unit. Cashier's check, cash, or money order are preferred, personal checks may be held until cleared. Please note that Google Checkout prices are 2% higher than cash prices; this covers a portion of the credit card processing fees.
Where Do I Ship My Player
Go HERE for the shipping address. Enter your information into the forms, print, and affix to the package.
Contact me for more details.
See the Announcements page for current turn-around time.
Modifications warranted from defects for 1 year from date of installation. This warranty includes parts and labor. Not responsible for damage due to electrical surges or lightning damage. Not responsible for customer negligence. Operation of this unit must be conducted in the same manner as described in the Sony owner’s manual. Modifying this player does void your manufacturer warranty. This warranty does not cover failures or defects in Sony components unless I can confirm it was caused by the modifications. We service what we sell!
