I know some people who prefer AES/EBU over I2S.
What Digital to Digital Converter Do You Use? Why?
I have an iFi Zen Stream and am considering using a digital to digital converter to convert the iFi's USB to i2s into the May Holo DAC.
I guess the question that arises is if this approach is sonically better than USB directly into the DAC.
So, who can offer some advice based on personal experience? Yes, I do realize that your DAC and streamer differ from mine.
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to ghdprenticeAgree, I'm not sold on converting any native output signal, just adds interpellation (maybe good or bad). What did make a very notable difference for me was using a cheap "break-out" box on an OPPO 83 HDMI output to separate the native I2s and feed it to a Pontus II. Notably better than coax/optical/spdif sound from regular CDs. Plus dsd layer output from SACD disks, a lot better! If you have HDMI output from whatever device your not converting anything, just accessing part of the source native signal in this chain.
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You're closer to the end state of your hi fi journey than many of us who are either starting or are in the middle of their journey. How about a little empathy? ;-) I'm not going to argue the technical merits of USB vs. I2S but rather try to imagine that someone has a DAC with both interfaces and for whatever reason I2S sounds better? I agree that putting DDC "barrel connector" in the signal path isn't optimal but if it provides a better listening experience by definition it can't be a "bad thing". One day this probably won't even be a consideration as the technology will have sufficiently advanced such that we can get the integrated Streamer/DAC that is emotionally engaging and at a reasonable price point. In the mean time, we all do what we can, the best that we can. ps. Love your system! Although I can't see it anymore. I haven't been able to see Virtual Systems since around the time they instituted "bot checking". I suspect I am not alone.
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