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Boulder Modified Squeezebox...any experience?

Hello all,

I have been interested in the Squeezebox V3 for some time now...I finally had the opportunity to see and use one at a local shop and liked the interface, which I think would work well with my iTunes library...which FYI is all ripped in Lossless.

Now to the meat here. I am worried however that the stock SB V3 is not really going to keep up with my Denon transport, let alone anything else that I have thought about upgrading to...Which makes me wonder what type of difference has the boulder modifications had on this device. I have read all of the reviews I could find on the mods, but am interested if any of you have had experience with this modified piece...

Finally, if you have had experience with the squeezebox at all, but particularly the modified unit, what did you think? How does the modified SB compare to your transport? Please let me know what transport with which you are making comparisons.

Thanks for your input!
Ben
bearotti
ecruz
402 posts
 
Oops again! I can't believe I called Wayne, Vinnie.

Can you tell I sat thru a 4 1/2 hour meeting this morning?
bobschneider
27 posts
 
Why not just use the Squeezebox with an external DAC, rather than going the mod route? The Squeezebox works very well with external DACs, and the sky's the limit for sound quality. You could even use the same DAC with your Denon if you're looking to upgrade that as well.
mdconnelly
133 posts
 
So here's what I struggle with... I don't doubt that throwing $1k-$2k at a $300 unit can do wonders. But, then you're talking very rapid depreciation in resale value when the next generation of SB-like devices are available... Maybe a year from now, maybe two, maybe next month. And if you're willing to throw $2k at it, would you not be better off with the Transporter?

That's my hesitation... and, hell, I still may jump in anyway.
bearotti OP
164 posts
 
Bob,

Yes, that is the idea...however the mod I am most interested in is the digital mod...Simply becasue of the fact that I will be using the external DAC...I would want the unit to perform its best under it digital capabilities. For $550...for the mod and the SB 3 on eBay...it shouldn't cost too much if it can compete with some high $$$$ transports.

Thanks for your input,
Ben
vladimir
346 posts
 
I own a Bolder-modded (digital and analog, power supply) SB2. I used it directly into a pair of Stello M200 amps for a couple of years and was satisfied. I recently bought a Monarchy Audio M24 and using both DAC and preamp it sounds distinctly better than directly into the amp. I suggest you try the standard SB3 first, then perhaps add a Channel Islands VDC-SB power supply.
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