2. digital
  3. 181442-174511

Pontus ii and Hi Res

A bit new to streaming so apologies for a naive question. I’m streaming Tidal from a Bluesound Node into a new Denafrips Pontus ii via optical cable. Regardless of resolution (hi res or MQA), the DAC stays on 44.1 kHz x 1 multiplier. I tried setting the streamer audio to “MQA to external DAC”, but no difference. Also no difference toggling between OS and NOS  

What am I missing? If the Pontus can’t unfold MQA or resolve anything above 44.1 (x1)  is there any reason to keep Tidal’s highest res service?  The DAC should certainly recognize higher res files...no?

Appreciate any ideas. 

chocaholic
chocaholic OP
201 posts
 

Yes, am on Qobuz now (free trial).  Currently streaming at 24 bit 192 kHz but DAC doesn’t seem to recognize anything above 44.1 kHz (x1 multiplier). That’s my concern. As such, Qobuz is no better than Spotify. Concerned my new Pontus is malfunctioning. I’ve emailed Denefrips but no response as of now. 

rockrider
181 posts
 

Do you have a Coax cable you could try instead of optical? Optical SPDIF (Toslink) is not generally considered the best connection choice. 

chocaholic OP
201 posts
 

@rockrider Yes, using a Wireworld coax cable currently. No difference.

Could it be because I’m streaming via Bluetooth from my iPad to the Node?

rockrider
181 posts
 

Bluetooth? No no no no no. The iPad should be connected to your WiFi (on same network as Node) then the iPad only works as a controller and the audio signal goes directly to the Node. 

chocaholic OP
201 posts
 

@rockrider DUDE!!!!  If you are in the Atlanta area, I owe you dinner. You nailed it. I had no idea I was to control the source through the Blusound app. Problem solved. DAC recognizes high resolution just fine. All is good. Will stick with Qobuz and the Bluesound interface. No more Bluetooth. Really appreciate you sticking with it. Whew!  

 

 

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