macmini spdif out vs. usb
Here are some interesting threads running currently on Asylum: Which is better format sonically: USB or S/DIF? SB3 versa USB to S/PDIF converter? Why no "reasonably" priced USB Dacs? Enjoy! |
Kana813, I'm actually quite impressed with the sound quality of the current set-up (Mac->optical cable->MF Tri-Vista), and find it sounds as good (some listeners I've had over say "better than")as playing a CD using the Tri-vista as both transport and DAC. However, as a card carrying member of the audiophile community, I'm always interested incremental improvements in sound quality. In my case, I would add "Cost effective" to that search. That is why I was hoping for a relatively inexpensive cable solution to improving the sound quality. I'm not going to spend a thousand dollars on this unless it makes a discernable improvement over the current set-up. Howver, if I can do a lot better than I am now with a relatively small investment, I'll do it. I would like to try it out before making the investment though. |
Bruce_1; you are welcome. Definitely get some input from the folks who make their living in that field, and listen and weigh the specific alternatives yourself. Report your findings here when you have...perhaps another thread. Have fun! Worst case scenario - it does sound like you have an enjoyable system already - Nothing wrong with that! Hey Rene - How have you enjoyed the Wavelength Brick? Did I describe the sound in a way that was similar to your own impressions of it? Have you held onto it? Marco |
Marco (Jax2), I got the Brick and I am holding onto it. Your description was on the dot - relaxed and smooth, very natural sounding with solid midrange, solid images and deep soundstage, good separation between instruments, every instruments is well defined sonically and spatially. The bass can be a little on the soft side, but I did notice some reaction to tube rolling. I am able to get closer to a solid state type bass and top end extension, but at the sacrifice of some of the positive qualities. I just got some more tubes for tube rolling (Mazda triple mica etc.) to play around soem more. Overall a slightly different sound and presentation from my Audio Aero Prima, but with similar strengths. The Prima seems to ad some more resonance and texture, while the Brick shows more realism and a more natural sound. Thanks again for all your help and comments :) Rene |
