New Sony HAP-Z1ES Firmware Out Today
I installed the newest firmware today and was pleasantly surprised that the player now supports an external DAC via the USB connection. It now does DSD over USB2 and there is a provision to turn it on/off. I played a couple of different artists and the player seems to work perfectly with the iPad remote. Here is the skinny, direct from Sony:
This firmware upgrade (version 18033R) provides the following improvements over version 17384R:
I finished my project, for those who use a DAC, that can be interesting. Sony HAP S1/Z1ES remote control key remapping demonstration video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIhKWJwfVIU |
....so why is it not preferable to have a computer in a stereo system? IMO, the answer depends on the level of audio nirvana you're wishing to achieve. Meaning, while a computer USB output to an external DAC USB input is very doable, listenable, etc., it is often considered (by the DAC manufacturer) the least quality with respect to other inputs the same DAC would typically have. Also IMO, I believe the same can be said of the USB cable with respect to S/PDIF, AES/EBU, etc. cables. The aforementioned said, the difference could still amount to splitting hairs and you may never realize or care to realize there are better options than USB. IMO, if USB works for you and this is your way of keeping things simple, go for it. |
