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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
joecasey
484 posts
 
09-03-14: Mitch4t
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Computer audio for me is kind of like exercising. I know it's good for me, I know if I keep at it that it will give positive results. I know that in the beginning it could be a little uncomfortable, but if I want long term results, I need to fight through the initial discomfort.

The real key for me is that I just have to get started...snd stick with it.
and ask for help when necessary.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Joe ,
I can appreciate you're happy with computer audio and that's fine. I guess you take this issue more seriously than I. For me they don't sound better and thus I felt no need to to take it further. You chose that direction and that's good for you. I see no point in turning this into some battle, it isn't that important. I'm forced to work with computers all day at work and feel comfortable with them. Just don't want them in my audio system at home, for those who do, enjoy.
Charles,
mitch2
3,973 posts
 
I agree with Raymonda on this subject - namely, that computer audio is rather a blessing than a bust
I agree with that too. Computer audio sounds better here. Also, once CD's are ripped, I find the accessibility of the music to be much easier than dealing with physical media. The contenders are MUSE Erato II player (MUSE's last top player before Kevin went on to play with HRT) against a 2012 mini with the full works by Mojo Audio using Pure Music (with upsampling to 24/88, memory play and less-is-more) into the Metrum HEX DAC.

I have no interest in convincing others what to like in their systems but, in my system, the computer source sounds better and will likely remain my primary source.
joecasey
484 posts
 
09-03-14: Charles1dad
Joe ,
I can appreciate you're happy with computer audio and that's fine. I guess you take this issue more seriously than I. For me they don't sound better and thus I felt no need to to take it further. You chose that direction and that's good for you. I see no point in turning this into some battle, it isn't that important. I'm forced to work with computers all day at work and feel comfortable with them. Just don't want them in my audio system at home, for those who do, enjoy.
Charles,
Charles1dad (System | Threads | Answers | This Thread)
Frankly I could care less what anybody do except for myself. Like you, I'm just contributing and offering my .02. Nothing more and nothing less.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi Joe,
Agree!
Regards,
Charles,
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