Is computer audio a bust?


In recent months, I have had several audio acquaintances return to CDPs claiming improved SQ versus their highly optimized computer transports (SS drives, external power supplies, etc, etc).

I wanted to poll people on their experiences with computer "transports." What variables have had the most impact on sonics? If you bailed on computers, why?

I personally have always believed that the transport, whether its a plastic disc spinner or computer, is as or more important than the dac itself and thus considerable thought and energy is required.

agear
Charles1dad, I just read the 6Moons review. Wow! I didn't have time to note what chip is in it, but I would love to hear it.
Hi Tbg,
I believe it uses the TI(Burr Brown) 1794. The key to its sucess IMO is the ultra simple discrete analog circuit(Yamamoto avoids Op amp/NFB at all cost he says). Minimal use of filters and his emphasis on power supply and heavy duty transformer. He placed attention on implementing a very minimalist design which he feels yields a natural sound quality. It's exceptionally organic and lively.
Charles,
Charles1dad, while I like avoiding Op amps and his other emphases, I need the Sabre chip for my music server and it double DSD.

Thanks for the information.
Tbg,
I understand. My belief is what ever it takes to sound good for "you". Its just become that simple for me.
Charles,
I'll say it again.....computer audio is how 99.9999 percent of all music is recorded.....mixed and mastered today. Playing back files on your computer has the potential to be as close to the final mix as possible....for the good or bad of it. People are so hung up on usb....well, today's usb sounds as good as last year's firewire thanks in part to asynchronous. So much so that I no longer use firewire to playback tracks for mixing. Anyway....If you don't like usb buy a mytek with a firewire port.

Again.....listening to a hard drive is how recording engineers mix. After sending out for cd pressing, the cd wi be compared to the two track file from a hard drive to ensure a proper pressing.

Also....I for one am glad that disc drives have been pushed to the back of the bus. Do you know how many laser problems occur with dvd drives. It is a crap shoot to even invest in a top player due to the short life laser problems. And....hard drives are so cheap that backing up your files in incredibly easy and fast.