wadia i170 meassured jitter level

Let's not jump to conclusions with no facts. I have compared my i170 to my previous Meridian G08 CDP nd I, and others, couldn't pick which was the source, this includes using the G08 as a transport and connecting it to the DAC I use with the i170.

The wadia is a fine unit for the price. I am just saying it could be better if the unit had less jitter. I don't use my wadia i170 anymore i use the msb ilink ipod transport. The msb ilink jitter is measured at 7ps. The sound i get out of my wadia 521 great northern sound co mod dac is now true reference sound now.

I think the facts are that the 170i has high jitter as this has been objectively measured. The extent to which this is audible, in my experience, depends on the DAC and its jitter reduction processes. My experience is the same as Brian's - I could not pick the difference between transports when using a common DAC, but only after a DIP jitter reduction device was added to both devices. Without the DIP, using the same non-reclocking DAC, the CD player had better resolution. So Brian, if your DAC does reclock the signal and reduce jitter, this may be the key reason you didn't hear a difference.

Having said that, I agree that Wadia could come out with a higher-end version - perhaps with improved power supply, improved clock and a better digital RCA plug (with a sturdy digital cable, the rca plug on the Wadia moves about disconcertingly).

Hens, my DAC does reclock the signal, a must in my buying decision.

I think the facts are that the 170i has high jitter as this has been objectively measured.

Where are these measurements? I am not saying the statement isn't true, I just have never read anything published. Your DIP experiment does raise legit questions.

Talking with one reveiwer in the past he mentioned comparing a couple transports, one expensive, one not, while using a DAC that reclocks and could tell no difference.

I talked with Martin Cooper of Wadia early last year, before the i170 was released, and they did have ideas for a separate power supply and the like.

As for those considering an i170, I would just be sure you paired it with a DAC that reclocks the signal.

Brian