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How to Connect DAC's USB Port to Ethernet Cable

My DAC is a Bricasti M21. I would like to try streaming native DSD256 files using the DACs true 1-bit DSD.

Music is currently streamed using Audirvana on my android phone from a network switch using the DACs ethernet port with an ethernet cable. The DAC can only stream DSD256 files using its USB port. I’d like keep the ethernet connection to stream other file types and Qobuz. I can switch to the DACs USB port using the remote when I want to listen to DSD256 files.

The computer with the DSD256 files is downstairs and the Bricasti is upstairs. How do I add a cord from the network switch in the music room to the DACs USB port? Do I need a separate box in the music room that converts the network ethernet signal to a USB signal or can I use a USB-B to ethernet adapter?

I already contacted the manufacturer, but the person I talked with said they have never tried this before.

bigby
hgeifman
2,239 posts
 

+1, The Bricasti M21 DAC can stream DSD files up to 128 via an Ethernet connection, functioning as a DLNA-compliant media renderer. It supports various digital inputs, including Ethernet, which allows for seamless integration with networked audio systems.

>> However, it does not support streaming DSD256 files over Ethernet; the maximum for Ethernet is DSD128. For DSD256 playback, USB input is required.

Ethernet to USB adopters are available on Amazon but I have no info on the signal quality of the format conversion.

FYI:  USB-to-Ethernet adapters can provide reliable signal quality, but performance varies based on the adapter type. USB 2.0 adapters support speeds up to 100 Mbps, while USB 3.0 and USB-C adapters can achieve up to 2.5 Gbps, offering better stability and speed for demanding applications. However, using a USB adapter may introduce some latency compared to built-in Ethernet ports, though many users report minimal noticeable differences in typical internet applications. Overall, the quality of the adapter and network conditions will significantly impact performance.

hgeifman
2,239 posts
 

TP-Link adopter, see this link.

please search for other options.  
 

bigby OP
155 posts
 

@audphile1 I download DSD128 files to my PC using NativeDSD Music. Before downloading, you can select the format. I want to try their DSD256 format.

 

The DSD128 files sound pretty good, but I have to listen more to tell if there is a difference from Qobuz.

 

@hgeifman  I'm going to give it a try next week when I get the parts in.

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,173 posts
 

@bigby there are adopters for everything. However, these adapters aren’t made with high quality audio signal in mind. Worth trying if you’re so dedicated to doing it. You can return the adapter if it’s not good. 
 

As to DSD128 vs. Qobuz…I find DSD to sound different but not necessarily better than the 192/24 Qobuz. DSD is usually softer sounding. I wouldn’t get out of my way to hunt down this sound - I rarely play DSD files. But that’s just me. 
 

Ley us know if you get around to it. 

rbstehno
1,455 posts
 

I think dsd sounds much better than 24/192. 
I would stick with Ethernet with dsd. USB you will degrade the sound quality

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