Or stick to USB line conditioner with reclocker.
1. innous phoenix USB reclocker
2. iFi iPurifier3 + iFi iDefender 5v power
3. SOTM USB RECLOCK
For Gustard R26...which bang for the buck: DDC or LHY OCK clock?
I've been enjoying this dac for several months now. I have tried USB and COAX and now I2S.
There is a noticeable improvement in each of these inputs. I have read many of the discussions here regarding both DDC and external clocks. I am wondering which of these would give more bang for the buck. The Gustard goes very well with my tube amps.
I am considering the LHY OCK 1 or 2 for clocks and undecided for the DDC.
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@peareye I've had the R26, the Ock-1, Zen Stream, U18 & SU6 for 6 months, and more recently got the Ock-2 and LHY SW-8 switch. The Ock-2 is a clear step up over the Ock-1, in resolution and refinement, though the Ock-1 is warmer, smoother and perhaps more forgiving of average sources as a result. Still, the OCK-2 is the new incumbent. My DDCs and Zen have been collecting dust for a while now TBC, I much prefer Roon/HQP via the R26's internal renderer... particularly since I've progressively improved my upstream network path. I do dust the DDCs off every now and then to recheck with new USB or power cables for eg, but there's no question in my system the internal streamer remains so much more musically engaging - more dynamic, weighty and resolving with a broader, deeper and taller soundstage and a calmer background. So for the R26 rather than DDCs I'd recommend an OCK-2 and a good switch like the LHY or Fibre Media convertors. |
@kereru Are you using the i2S output from the DDC? |
@soix Yes i2S - a Blue Jeans Cables FE cable which although very well regarded up to say the $200 range I is likely a limiting factor vs say a Tubulus Argentus, which would cost as much again as a DDC which I’m not in a hurry to do. USB cable is an also highly rated if a bit more boutique but well priced Gothic Audio Semperfi Outsider pure silver. |
@kereru How long is the Belden cable? I’m using a cheap Monoprice HDMI cable that is only 6” in length and getting surprisingly great sound. As you undoubtedly know, cable length is critical for i2S as it was designed as an internal connection inside pro audio components so the signal degrades quickly with cable length and most people who know more than I recommend 1 foot or less, which is why I went with a 6” cable and maybe a big reason why I’m experiencing such great sound. I’ve also heard some people say they don’t notice much difference upgrading to a more expensive HDMI cable, which is why I’m like you and in no hurry to upgrade my current cable. If you’ve been using a longer cable and might like to try what I’m using it only costs $5.50 so what the heck? |
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