2. digital
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worth upgrading BelCanto REFLink?

Hi all,

I am currently using a BelCanto REFLink to convert the USB output from my MacMini (using as a Roon core) into SPDIF format to feed into the coax input on my Mojo Audio Mystique DAC.

I am wondering, based on the BelCanto's age and the rate with which things change in the audio world, if I would achieve an appreciable improvement with the new Matrix Audio X-SPDIF 3 USB Interface or the Audiophilleo1 with PurePower PSU.

Both are much newer (one would imagine technology has advanced) and have a far better clock than the BelCanto, so I am guessing that may improve things, but I would be grateful for anyone's thoughts/experience with these devices and info on what type of improvements, if any, I am likely to experience with this switch?

Thanks so much,
Chris

cporada
ghdprentice
6,397 posts
 

While you are correct about advances. I would recommend replacing your Mac with a proper streamer. The Mac is probably by far the weakest link. A high quality streamer would probably improve the sound a great deal. I prefer Aurender new or used.

The biggest step forward in digital was getting the PC / MAc / MacBook out of the equation.

cporada OP
36 posts
 

Thanks for your response!

Alas, my hands are tied with respect to using the MacMini, as I use Theoretica Physics BACCH4Mac cross-channel cancellation software/filtering to achieve "true" 3D sound, and this requires the player/streamer be a Mac device.

Thanks again,

Chris

rossb
183 posts
 

I still have a Bel Canto Ref Link, as well as the Matrix X SPDIF 2 and have also recently bought the X SPDIF 3 to use the improved IIS ouput. I also have a few others - an old Audiphillio, the SIngxer unit and one or two others.

The Bel Canto is good but the Matrix units are better, and certainly the best I have heard. It is also worthwhile powering the Matrix unit with a good 12v linear PSU which brings another improvement in sound quality.

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