Does a DAC need a large/strong power supply?

@charles1dad ,

Very well stated. Ones needs measurements to get you there and listening to refine and perfect it. To disparage the second half of the equation is downright silly and exposes those who do so as trolls, as this one ably demonstrates.

All the best,
Nonoise

+2 @charles1dad ​​​​@nonoise 

@koestner

You ask a good question - but I think ultimately what you’ve come across is a case of people dismissing (or perhaps minimizing) the performance of a component under the misguided notion that price or fancy parts is an indication of how a piece of gear performs.

So why does an inexpensive component measure well? Adhering to good engineering and design principles most likely. What about all the hubbub over different power transformer types, discrete circuits and custom digital filters? It’s really all just marketing in the end.

If you decide to compare the Yggy to something like the Topping D90 SE, then I highly suggest removing this type of psychological priming through a blind test. You can draw inspiration from this Wikipedia article on ABX testing. Not knowing which source you’re listening to (and probably keeping your eyes closed) during testing helps you to judge solely on sound quality. Don’t forget to pay attention to the section labeled ’Confidence’.

I can not see how a properly designed well implemented power supply would not be good for a DAC or any audio components. However, maybe not ''overkill'' power supply but, a properly designed one with quality parts. Just my $0.02 😎

Mike

There was a really good reason for the genius EE / listening focused designer of the Ayre DAC implementing a “ measure / listen “ switch….

Also, a firm believer in level matching….for valid listening tests..

God, I miss Charlie so…..