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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
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
08-09-14: Cerrot
Get a sound card. ESI juli@ for $149. Spdif out. All you need, plus a coax cable into your dac.

That is an option, and one that the Alpha Berkley crowd runs with....
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
08-09-14: Twb2
"Is computer Audio a Bust?"

Is this a serious question?? If so, the one asking is grossly uninformed and/or naive.

No, just a rhetorical question to stimulate discussion. As you can see, some people do actually feel that way, and its still a valid opinion...
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
08-09-14: Twb2
I should add that the PC or Mac/DAC combo introduces variables that can result in inferior SQ. The Lumin eliminates these variable by combining the computer and the DAC in one housing, with the power supply in another, thereby eliminating the USB or other interface and clocking problems. The designer has total control of the results.

Indeed. I actually looked at one. It does however take away some of your own control over SQ. I would rather have a dedicated digital transport and a DAC of my choosing....
agear OP
1,362 posts
 
If you do not believe me, research all that you can about the Tara Labs Zero Gold with HFX grounding station and get back to me, likly, your tone will change with inverasment!

Grounding does indeed make a difference. I have some of Mosaic Audio's (aka Dale Pitcher from Intuitive Design and Essence) reference cables and they have a grounding element as well. Tripoint audio has opened a lot of eyeballs in reference to grounding. It think it is particularly efficacious in regards to digital. That and power filtering whether it be batteries or a dedicated conditioner....
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Agear, mmmm, that was some enjoyable posts, I can learn from you,I am being honest here, education is always the answer to all questions, what I learn, I may be able to share with others in this hobby, Would be nice to be an asset to many others in our hobby of extreme audio, thankyou, happy listening
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