is ayre qb-9 dac better than cx7e mp?

Thanks for your input Jcote. Audiofreak certainly has his agenda, whatever the reason.

Isn't the DAC in the DX5 the same one as in the QB9? I always kind of thought of the DX5 as a C5xeMP and QB9 in one chassis.

Like you I am committed to computer audio. To my ears, my Mac mini through Wavelength Cosecant has been a revelation in digital audio - my first digital front end that can give analogue a run for its money - and that includes my previous Ayre C5xeMP player.

And it's so nice (albeit potentially quite expensive) to be able to download high res albums in minutes rather than having to get SACDs shipped from online dealers.

Have you tried one? Either of you? I thought not.

As I said, I heard the Linn servers at a show and was underwhelmed but don't feel I have enough experience with them to have an educated opinion - hence I would never post anything about them unless specifically asked or challenged. You, on the other hand, have basically dismissed all USB DACs as inferior but provided no evidence that this "opinion" is based on anything tangible.

Now, for the last time, I ask that you defend your disparaging comments about USB DACs with a list of ones you have tried that have led you to your conclusions.

It would also help if you could provide a technical explanation of why a USB connection is inferior since you talk as if you know this to be a fact.

Educate us please!

I'm waiting...

If you are happy with it, that is all that matters.

Hmmmph - I thought so. As you said, ignorance is bliss. Nice chatting with you.