Just received my touch today and thought I'd share my initial thoughts. Setup was a breeze. It connected to my wireless network without a problem and I was able to access my computer/server that is also connected wireless. Flac files, 24/96 WAVE files and even a 24/192 rip of an Eagles DVD-A played flawlessly without any stutters or rebuffering (again, this is all over a wi-fi connection).
I connected the touch analog to my preamp (Wyred4Sound STP) and coax to a DAC (stock PS Audio DL3) and switched inputs back and forth on my preamp. There is no lag when switching between the two inputs, but there is a difference in volume levels between the analog outs on the Touch and the balanced outputs on the PS Audio. I tried to adjust the volume a few steps down when switching to the PS Audio to match the levels as close as possible when switching between inputs. I know, not very scientific.
My initial impression is I won't be selling my dac anytime soon except maybe to upgrade. I could definitely tell a difference between the analog outs and digital into a dac. Without getting into the typical audio review adjectives to describe the differences, let's just say it brought me into the music more. It was subtle, but noticeable even if I played the volume through the dac at a lower volume than the analog outs. The analog and digital outs on the Touch do sound better than the Duet it replaced.
I was hoping to sell the dac and to simplify my system with less components and cables, but I can't do that now that I've heard it through the dac. Regardless, I am happy with the purchase and will continue to see if there is any change in the analog outputs with time.
I connected the touch analog to my preamp (Wyred4Sound STP) and coax to a DAC (stock PS Audio DL3) and switched inputs back and forth on my preamp. There is no lag when switching between the two inputs, but there is a difference in volume levels between the analog outs on the Touch and the balanced outputs on the PS Audio. I tried to adjust the volume a few steps down when switching to the PS Audio to match the levels as close as possible when switching between inputs. I know, not very scientific.
My initial impression is I won't be selling my dac anytime soon except maybe to upgrade. I could definitely tell a difference between the analog outs and digital into a dac. Without getting into the typical audio review adjectives to describe the differences, let's just say it brought me into the music more. It was subtle, but noticeable even if I played the volume through the dac at a lower volume than the analog outs. The analog and digital outs on the Touch do sound better than the Duet it replaced.
I was hoping to sell the dac and to simplify my system with less components and cables, but I can't do that now that I've heard it through the dac. Regardless, I am happy with the purchase and will continue to see if there is any change in the analog outputs with time.