MQA through Toslink

Thanks Mark - yes I’ve seen quite a few USB MQA implementations from pro-ject, iFi, and audioquest. 

Any recommendation for going from toslink to USB? I suppose this could have the additional benefit of reclocking jitter? I’m looking to Airplay MQA Tidal through an airport express. 

Thanks!

You may consider Bluesound Node 2 which retail for $499.00. But I am not sure if you will hear full MQA unfold through its Toslink output. 

I own a Vault 2 and using its analog (RCA) output for MQA playback. 

Can you tell us more about your implementation? Why Toslink? What is the digital source? What is the amplification?  If I have a full picture, I can be of more help :-)

My understanding is Node2 supports MQA though its coax digital, probably through Optical as well but I am not sure. Of course, the downstream DAC will need to also support MQA in order to hear MQA quality content. Analog RCA is a sure bet without the need for an external DAC.

@marktomaras 

hi, the source is Tidal and FLAC, transmitted over WiFi to multiple Airport Expresses, which feature an mini-Toslink output. 

They currently go via Toslink into Fiio D03 DACs and then to the integrated amps via RCA. 

I’m looking to improve the DAC section of the chain. My goal is a more 3D soundstage. The Fiio DAC sounds great in tone, rhythm and separation. But it doesn’t have the depth/texture I desire. Budget is $200-$400