Mapman, I believe the biggest user base for this device are movie/video streaming buffs and that's where the majority of the support issues remain focused right now in the forums. I'm not a video/home theater enthusiast, so I'm just watching it play out.
I've only had the box for a few days and am still discovering its features. I had planned on just utilizing the TOSLINK connection into my EP9ES for my streaming apps, however USB audio support was a pleasant surprise. Granted I have only tried the Valab (which is arguably no slouch on redbook), but I honestly believe that it sounds as good or better than the SB Touch (<--on its own). I am unsure of what negative influences there may be on the digital signal of this device in its current configuration (chipset, firmware, power source, etc.) However, I am certain that one of the best things going for it is the fact that it is essentially a quiet PC.
I must say that I am impressed with the XBMC application. I am still learning my way around the interface, but it appears very solid and well thought out. Apparently the developers have recently done a serious upgrade to its audio capabilities, including high resolution support. I do need to dig deeper into the audio configuration options as there is a volume control within the application which I feel may be degrading. I am unsure of the optimal settings. I just installed the Yatse remote control app for XBMC. I had to add a few port forwarding strings to my router, but was easy to configure. This is an excellent app to control XBMC via smartphone or tablet.
Mapman, I'd say go for it. I've been more disappointed with more expensive cables. At least there are other features beyond 2 chan audio that this device could be used for.
I've only had the box for a few days and am still discovering its features. I had planned on just utilizing the TOSLINK connection into my EP9ES for my streaming apps, however USB audio support was a pleasant surprise. Granted I have only tried the Valab (which is arguably no slouch on redbook), but I honestly believe that it sounds as good or better than the SB Touch (<--on its own). I am unsure of what negative influences there may be on the digital signal of this device in its current configuration (chipset, firmware, power source, etc.) However, I am certain that one of the best things going for it is the fact that it is essentially a quiet PC.
I must say that I am impressed with the XBMC application. I am still learning my way around the interface, but it appears very solid and well thought out. Apparently the developers have recently done a serious upgrade to its audio capabilities, including high resolution support. I do need to dig deeper into the audio configuration options as there is a volume control within the application which I feel may be degrading. I am unsure of the optimal settings. I just installed the Yatse remote control app for XBMC. I had to add a few port forwarding strings to my router, but was easy to configure. This is an excellent app to control XBMC via smartphone or tablet.
Mapman, I'd say go for it. I've been more disappointed with more expensive cables. At least there are other features beyond 2 chan audio that this device could be used for.