EverSolo DMP-A8 with Denafrips Pontus 15th, both have i2S

If the clock in the A8 is a femtoclock then it’s not as good as the ddc.  Likely a toss up to the clock in the Pontus.  The ddc clock, at least in the Hermes and above is an OCXO (oven controlled crystal oscillator, which) clock which is much better.  The Iris uses a TCXO (temperature controlled).  The control of the temp of the clock greatly increases performance in terms of reducing jitter.

Comparing ddcs I would listen to the aspects that were mentioned previously, soundstage, imaging, transients, bass response.  Even treble and midrange response can improve with a ddc.  Noise floor is also lower with the ddc.  You really just need to listen critically and decide what you like but certainly pay attention to the things listed above.

@mbolek makes a fair point, a ddc is often used to clean up USB signals.  That is why I have one as I stream using a MacBook Pro.  Given that your streamer has I2s output you may not gain much with the ddc.  You would be getting s much better clock with the ddc but then using a different output from the streamer which would involve conversions to I2s format when outputting from the ddc to the dac.  The clock might be worth the effort though, timing is significant in the digital world.

Thanks, I'm looking forward to trying everything out. I don't have a problem purchasing a Denafrips DDC if it comes down to it. I realize this is a hobby, and striving for a great sound.

mbolek, I'm glad to hear you have an A8, and i2S is working well with your Harmony. I'm hoping to find a user with A8 and Pontus to ask what Pontus i2S settings they use? I thought I heard one person say, when configuring,  1x on 4x on?

In looking at the specs for both DMP-A8 and Pontus 15th, I think the new Pontus 15th has the same Fentosecond clock as the DMP-A8. I will try evaluating them both ways, USB vs i2S. If I can’t tell a difference, is there a theoretical idea that would favor one or the other? I would think i2S would be the way to proceed if I can’t hear a difference?

If they both sound the same to you then it doesn’t really matter but I would stick with I2S.  The USB connection should utilize the DACs clock instead of the A8 so any difference you hear could be attributable to that as well.