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Would a DDC (Denafrips Iris) improve my system?

Hi, 

In reading various threads, stumbled across those recommending introducing a DDC to a digital chain when using USB.  I’ve got a U2mini with S/Booster feeding a PS Audio Direct Stream MKii.  I flip between using a USB connection and AES connection between the Lumin and PS Audio MKii.  Many say the best input stage for the MKii is the i2s which my Lumin doesn’t offer. 
 

Any advice on if something like the Denafrips Iris would provide a noticeable improvement?  The option of being able to try the i2s input on the MKii with out having to change my streamer is what’s intriguing to me.  Flip side is the Lumin and PS gear are both solid prices of gear, I would be surprised if they “needed” the Iris in the middle of the chain to scrub, further clean up the USB signal but I’ve got no knowledge or experience with that so might be off base with that thought. 
 

Thanks in advance for some advice, guidance. 

mm1tt77
mm1tt77 OP
162 posts
 

@jastralfu thanks for the helpful info,  are you using the i2s output?

jastralfu's avatar
jastralfu
373 posts
 

Yes, that was one of the reasons I got the Hermes.

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,152 posts
 

Yes the Iris would help but much more dramatic would be the Herms with the oven clocks 

trivema's avatar
trivema
88 posts
 

I’m running USB from a fan-less miniPC (ultra quiet) with optimized MS settings as my streaming source w/ Qobuz to an IRIS then I2S to a Pontus II 12th anniversary. The IRIS made a distinct improvement (~20%) when I put it in the system. The IRIS clock is temperature controlled, one step up from the Pontus clock. The Hermes is another step up to oven controlled. 
 

I first got the IRIS when I had a Topping D90 LE in my main rig knowing that I would replace with a Pontus at some point. ASR measured the Topping at -123dB SINAD, the highest ever at the time, if you believe measurements mean something. The Topping is as transparent and “clean” as any DAC on the market. Yet the IRIS improved the “black” silent background, increased details slightly and made the soundstage much larger with greater instrument separation. 

Now I have the Pontus II in which is a better match for my integrated tube amp and 99dB sensitive Klipsch Forte IIIs. I would highly recommend a DDC if you’re running a USB input. Hermes or IRIS depending on your budget. 
 

 

mm1tt77 OP
162 posts
 

@trivema thanks for the info, sounds very worthwhile for me to explore.

@audioman58 not sure if I should thank you… now I want the Hermes instead of the more reasonably priced Iris… thanks for the info, appreciate it.  I’m sure I’l be trying one of these DDC’s in the near future. 

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