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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
mitch2
3,969 posts
 
What was the most used source at RMAF?
What was the second most used source at RMAF?
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
AUdiolab,

Might the dealers viewpoint be skewed by the fact that these traditional "audio" only devices is their bread and butter whereas one can build a very good computer audio system with a little know-how without ever having to visit those traditional shops?

Most larger local B&M shops in my area that are still around have major inventory and floorspace dedicated to computer audio related gizmos. As always, they sell the gear that is of better quality and easier to integrate perhaps than what one might put together themselves otherwise.

Myself, I make a living from understanding and applying computer technology, so I have not bought anything for that from an audio store to-date becasue frankly I will pay a premium there for nothing better than what I might assemble myself otherwise, but, as has always been the case, there is value in going to someone with that special expertise needed to deliver good sound still for many, though there are many other options out there these days than ever before. Overall, its a win win for everyone.
electroslacker
375 posts
 
... disc spinners will be here for a very, very, long time..

One major advantage of computer audio is that it takes the spin out. Ripped discs can play directly from memory...and you can have endless bit-perfect copies as backup...and you can delete tracks that are cringe-worthy, or reorder tracks.
audiolabyrinth's avatar
audiolabyrinth
4,555 posts
 
Hi Mitch2, what was the most used sources at RMAF 2014?, and second most used?, I do not know, since this was a show, I believe it would be crazy to have a computer set-up with all that is involved to have one on a system, you think?
mitch2
3,969 posts
 
I believe it would be crazy to have a computer set-up with all that is involved to have one on a system
I am curious why you think that? A computer source is quite portable and probably easier to set up than a turntable.

I was not at RMAF'14 but the pictures I have seen seem to show more than a few computer or digital server sources with DACs, and a good number of turntables too. IMO, vinyl will be around for awhile because people still enjoy the presentation, and computer audio is definitely NOT a bust, but rather a better method of achieving the same goal as a compact disc...playing music from digital media.
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