Which has better sound quality? I really like the duet remote but if sound quality is better on the sb3 I could go that way and add the duet remote later. Current 2 ch system is an Arcam se8 to Modded Lite Dac Ah to B&K reference 20. I am looking to make a move up in sound quality and at the same time add the convenience of pc based audio. Thanks Steve
It should not matter if you use the digital out! However, your best combination is the Squeezebox with an ipod touch. Ipod touch will totally replace the duets remote. The remote for the duet costs about the same as the 32Gb ipod touch, so there is no reason NOT to buy an ipod touch and just the duet receiver/ or the squeezebox (for better viewing.)
Kana, Thanks! Reading lots of reviews had confused me. There seems to be a bit of controversy over which has the best sound so glad to hear your opinion. I will eventually add a better dac with usb. Any suggestions >$700.00? What about the sound quality compared to mid level cd players? I've considered a Jolida and the Rega players but hate to put out the cash if I can get a pc based system with comparable sound. Doug, Appreciate your input. I would have a hard time spending an extra $180 on the touch. Sound is my main priority and it seems that the duet remote would give the flexibility I need. What does the touch add? Thanks Steve
The touch is lighter, bigger screen, allows you to surf the net, and take your music with you (obviously). Maybe look into the 16GB ipod touch to save some money. The duet remote is a waste if you EVER plan to buy the ipod touch (IMHO).
I must admit I approach the situation differently then you. I have a squeezebox ALREADY, and was thinking about buying the duet remote. CLEARLY the ipod touch is the way to go in this situation, and would provide maximum flexibility. While not the most cost effective setup, it is the way to go, if possible.
I guess I got lucky. About a month ago, I won an auction here for a Duet and a (stock) PS Audio Digital Link 3. Since I got them together, I didn't really listen to the Duet analog outs; pretty much went straight through the DAC. All I can say is wow. ;) My cdp is a Music Hall CD25.2 with Underwood level 2 mods. Last January, I upgraded my Von Schweikert speakers from VR-4JRs to VR-4SR MkIIs. The latter have a pretty hot top end. The DAC tamed the digital harshness so now everything is listenable (wasn't the case before) and what was good before is now great. (I'm still very tempted to send it to Cullen for a Stage 3 mod.)
The Duet is pretty cool. I'm using EAC to rip my CDs to FLAC on my laptop. Prolly will get an external USB drive for backup.
When the novelty wears off, I'll compare the Duet analog out to the cdp to the Duet through the DAC and note differences. Actually I've already done cdp vs. DAC and all I could do was shake my head back and forth at how nicely the DAC sounded.
Tvad Thanks for the response. REsearching the itouch I can see how a lot would enjoy having one. For me it would just be another remote for the sb. I just want to be able to control the music stored on my hd and have a sound quality upgrade. Kartracer Did you feel like the sb, dac combo was a significant upgrade in sq? I will start with the dac ah and eventually upgrade to a tube dac (Paradisea+). Thanks Steve
Kana Think Tvad referred to the sb3 in his reference to the screen not the duet. Tvad Thanks for the info. Feel sure the itouch would be an upgrade even from the duet remote. It looks to be very versatile a has tremendous functionality. If I were planning to use the functions it would be a no brainer. At this time I do not intend to use it that way but will continue reading about it and considering how it might be of use. You have succedded in getting me curious. Steve
Kana I'm also interested in the Acopin ps model no.. Would like to get one ordered since I just ordered a duet. Got a great deal that I couldn't pass up. Also, what is the best wiring method. My ht is in a different room so I will hardwire to my receiver with either coax or toslink. The run will be around 25'. I'm guessing digital coax. Everything I have read about the Boulder mods has been positive. Figure I'll play with the duet a bit, buy a better dac, play some more, and may try their mod. Figure the longer I wait and play the more time for better mods or possible diy tweaks/mods. Thanks again for all the help and suggestions. Very excited about the duet. Steve
I'm looking for a regulated, quiet, linear power supply too and checked Acopian and didn't have a clue which PS would work. Please help recommend a model number. It would be appreciated. I don't want top spend an arm and a leg for a replacment PS. Thanks.
I have never listened to either of these units. However, I can tell you 2 things:
1.) The digital outputs are the identical design.
2.) The Duet has lass crap on the supply rails, as the outboard SMPS does not have to power the display. There is still too much noise on the clock's supply on the Duet, but with a decent linear supply, there is hope for it.
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