Revisiting LG DVD Player DV-440 For Audio

In 2016, I have review LG DVD Player DV-440 and the result is very positive. This DVD player has better in audio quality compares to the others. Especially compares to the over-hype Pioneer DV-373S, the analog audio output from this LG is far better. Since I already have the external DAC, in this post I will try to answer about, do the digital audio out sound different? Let's find out.

This is the Pioneer DV-120K and it is also the newer version of it's brother, the DV-373S.

Sound wise, it identical to DV-373S.

Looking inside this unit, it is very promising. The layout design is neat and more sophisticated than the LG.

The components that Pioneer using are from the reputable manufacture. Let's say for the capacitors, all of them from Rubycon. Compares to the LG, they only using the cheap and no name capacitors.

This all in one IC is take care for all DAC and CD optical control. This is MT1389FE the newer version IC compare to the DV-373S.

Back to the LG DV-440, the capacitors has been upgraded before. But right of the box, the sound from this LG is better than the Pioneer. And yes, the digital audio output between them has an audible difference too. No wonder in hi-end audio, a single transport can sell over a grand.

The LG sound more open on top notes, the sound stage are wider, more engaging mid-range compares to the pioneer that harsh at the top notes and overall presentation is dull. All above test are using DIY DAC TDA1543 combo with Tripath amplifier TA2024.

This is the power supply board from LG. Previous capacitors upgrade is focusing the components in my bin. But for today upgrade, I have bought some Rubycon MBZ which superior in the ripple rejection and the Sanyo OS-Con for digital circuit.

The leftover components from previous upgrade is the brown Elna RJH.

Complete upgrade in the power supply section.

The main board upgrade is focusing for the filter capacitors near the IC. This IC is handle all task, from optical control to the DAC, same with the Pioneer but different manufacture of course.

Mostly I using the Sanyo OS-Con SH. It is a long life version but quite okay for this application.

The difference before and after capacitors upgrade are audibly better. This upgrade give the impact on better bass control and even wider sound-stage. They are not break-in yet, but this is a good sign of successful upgrade.

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