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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I have modded some CEC transports to improve clocks and output circuits etc.. I dont mod anymore, but I know what they sound like.

I dont even have any CD player in my reference system, and its one of the best ones on the planet.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
10-27-14: Phusis
"State-of-the-art CD transports vs USB/SPDIF converter shootout:"

Yet another BADA advert....:)

Needs to blind a bunch of philes at an audio society meeting and do the same test. It would not be as black and white as one reviewer making pronouncements from the mountaintop....
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
10-27-14: Audioengr
I dont even have any CD player in my reference system, and its one of the best ones on the planet.

You need a formal system page then. Since the room is 80% of the equation, what have you done in that regard.

Also, what is the best way to store and then stream files to ones dac? Ethernet?
tbg
5,263 posts
 
I find no worthy points being made on this thread. I see the computer as the wave of the future with data coming from internet downloads.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Agear - I have an "about AE" page that describes my system and has a photo. It is not up to date though, since I now have custom 805A SE monoblocks. Soon to get Vapor Audio Nimbus speakers too.

The best way to play files is probably wired Ethernet. I am currently designing a network renderer for this purpose. My products, including the Overdrive SE can be upgraded to change out the USB interface for this network renderer, called the "Interchange".

Storing files depends on the playback. Generally the best way is to have them local to the computer, not NAS, and not USB if you are using USB interface. If you use network interface, then USB or firewire access to the drives is fine. IF you use USB, then Firewire to the drives is best IME.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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