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Is computer audio a bust?

In recent months, I have had several audio acquaintances return to CDPs claiming improved SQ versus their highly optimized computer transports (SS drives, external power supplies, etc, etc).

I wanted to poll people on their experiences with computer "transports." What variables have had the most impact on sonics? If you bailed on computers, why?

I personally have always believed that the transport, whether its a plastic disc spinner or computer, is as or more important than the dac itself and thus considerable thought and energy is required.

agear
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Thankyou Agear.
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
08-06-14: Audiolabyrinth
one more time!, computer audio is a bust!

Ha! At least your a good natured troll with a sense of humor....

For the record, I agree with your statements about the influence of cabling. I have experienced it too. Happy listening....
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
08-06-14: Cerrot
Computer audio via USB is an absolute BUST! USB is for connecting peripherials - not for music!

I know a lot of people who feel that way including an engineer who designs outstanding digital front ends (Exemplar Audio).....

So, that begs the question as to WHAT IS NECESSARY to make USB work?

Galvanic isolation?
Asynchronous streaming?
Isolation of power and data within cabling (Light Harmonic, etc)
Active reconstruction after the fact (BMC Pure USB cable)

What????
bcgator's avatar
bcgator
355 posts
 
I've petitioned congress to create national "Computer Audio is Dead!" and "USB cables should not be used for anything except tying shoes!" days for Audiolabyrinth and Cerrot, respectively. I admire Agear and others for attempting honest, rational discourse, but I'm quite certain that Audiolabyrinth and Cerrot are as interested in discussing both sides of the issue as John Corzine is in talking about where the missing MF Global money went. You guys can keep trying, but you'll probably have better luck getting the neighbor's dog to explain why he picked the last place he excreted his breakfast.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,709 posts
 
Agear,

As I understand it, USB asynch mode is one of several mmodes of operation for USB. It is intended to assure bandwidth,which is needed for high res audio to stream fast enough to keep up with playback. It also allows the "peripheral"device to be in control. You want that to be a DAC of high quality which includes an accurate clock to keep jitter minimal. In lieu of that, computer/server assumes that responsibility and other modes not as well suited for audio sound quality may come into play.
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