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Schiit Modi 3 with Google Pixel 3

Good evening to you all. I have just purchased a Schiit Modi 3 to add to my system. I do stream most of my music using Tidal and was seeking to improve the quality with this outboard DAC. My Parasound preamp does not have a built-in DAC. Sadly my music source (laptop) just died. I'm now trying to figure out how to stream Tidal from my Pixel 3.  It's my only option right now. I've tried going directly from the USB-c port on my phone to the micro USB on the Schiit Modi but it comes through with very distorted sound. I have used the dongle as that only allows a headphone jack output and I don't think there's a cable for 3.50 headphone to micro USB. I'm unclear whether or not I can go directly out of the USB-c on my phone directly to the Modi or if the phones built-in DAC is interfering with the Modi..??? Or something else perhaps.  Thank you in advance! 
icarus12
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
I just looked up the Modi 3. Doesn't the included cable fit your phone? It's usb micro on the phone end and usb-C on the DAC end. usb micro and usb-C are very similar but not the same. If it doesn't fit then you probably need a usb-C to usb-C cable. Hope this helps. My cable should be here today and I will post back here and let you know how it works.
icarus12 OP
24 posts
 
Thank you for your suggestions. Yes, the supplied cord that came with the Modi 3 would work to connect my Pixel but I need to use it to power the Modi as I have a CD player also connected by the digital coaxial audio cable.  Has anybody used any of the audioquest USB cables for the interface between your phone and DAC? The Wyred idea is also plausible but I already have the Modi DAC.  Unless you are suggesting this in addition to the Modi. 
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Yes in addition. It cleans up the usb signal feeding the dac a more pure signal to work with. Check the reviews linked on there web site. Very positive! I just got my cable and an trying to learn how to configure the phone to output audio over usb. Let you know how it goes. Im learning about this just now myself. Been researching it for a week now.
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Though its not needed and can be added later. They are having a special on them right now though. $125. Reg $200.
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Alright I'm still working through this. I found out that we need what's called an "O.T.G usb cable" stands for "On The Go". Its different than just an adapter cable. I just ordered one this morning after doing some more research. I tried using my $150. Audioquest Carbon usb C to male usb B adapter cable but it doesn't work. Now I have to return it. Just ordered a cheap OTG adapter cable form Amazon. Will see if I can make that work before trying to find a better quality cable. My Wyred 4 Sound Recovery came today also. I'm really hoping I can make this work. I have not heard of anyone else trying this so it's an experiment for me. Stay tuned.
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