2. digital
  3. 131208-2280

Looking for Better Jitter Reduction in a DAC

I'm looking to improve the jitter control in my digital setup, which hopefully will create a more analogue presentation. I own a PS Audio PW Memory Transport, which sports a FPGA, and a Nuwave DSD DAC with a scaled-down version of the gate array.

   I have owned a Chord which uses this technology and it was like listening to analogue recordings. I sold it only because it's soundstage was very forward, like sitting in the front row of a concert hall. My current PS Audio setup has wide and deep imaging, as does my Atma-Sphere preamp.
   I have auditioned the Schiit Grundir and it was a bit too fast in the attack and transients, but had the dynamics and deep imaging that I like. So, I guess what I'm looking for is a unit with a laid-back, realistic musical presentation.

The Mytek Digital Stereo192 DSD and Blue Circle DAC are in my price range, but there is no way to audition them.
  So any recommendation and advice is appreciated. DSD preferred, budget is about $1200 used.


lowrider57
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
Dave, I believe the clocking performed by the FGPA in the Exogal makes a reclocker unnecessary. But, everyone of us would have still tried for that extra bit of perfection.
I'll bet the Purist cable also is excellent. I have all Purist analogue cables and they are an integral part of my modest system.
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,190 posts
 
That was the posit from Jeff Haagenstad of Exogal when I solicited his opinion before trying the ISO Regen and I expect you are both right, lowrider.

I gave it an honest shot which is, it seems, more than many often do before judging here in writing.

The Purist 30th USB cable has ferrite filters around the 5v power lead (but not the signal conductors) and that, along with the Comet's prowess in that area, may have contributed to the lack of improvement from the ISO Regen’s galvanic isolation.

The takeaway for me was that I never expected that the sound quality would lessen, only perhaps that it would not change audibly. But it did in my system to my ears and I felt that to be noteworthy.

Dave
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
Open question; is it worth experimenting with a Toslink cable from my transport to DAC (in case there is a grounding issue)?

I'm not dealing with computer audio at this time since I need to have my Mac serviced.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
@rodge827 , 
I'm thinking about trying the iFi SPDIF iPurifier, but noticed that the input for a PSU is USB. How would you connect a LPS to the iPurifier?
 I'd like to use a toroidal PSU but they use a DC cable with 5.5, 2.1mm head size.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
5,418 posts
 
I've been on the prowl for a used Exogal Comet or Holo Spring and I came across the Gustard X20, which can be modded by Ric Schultz.
Any info on this DAC?
More to discover