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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
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I have compared my own Off-Ramp 5, which is bit-perfect to the Synchro-Mesh, both being powered from the same high-quality DC supply. The SM is pretty close to the Off-Ramp 5, even though OR5 is slightly better. In many systems, the difference would not be perceivable.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
phusis's avatar
phusis
1,202 posts
 
"State-of-the-art CD transports vs USB/SPDIF converter shootout:"

http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/state-art-cd-transports-vs-universal-serial-bus-industry-standard-cables-connectors-and-communications-protocols-between-computers-and-electronic-devices-spdif-converter-shootout-15193/

The results of above comprehensive comparison perfectly reflect my own impressions as well, albeit via different equipment and interface (but that'd only underline the generality of the matter at hand).

Notice the difference in price between the CD-transports and USB to S/PDIF converter + server used..
cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
Hi Guido, EI do not believe you would not add a "synchro mesh" between a $30,000 CEC transport and a SOTA dac. Again, if you look at other manufacturers (Ralph comes to mind), they are here to teach and educate us. Not to tell us all our issues will be solved if we buy their products. That is solely my issue.
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
Ah yes, I was forgetting AtmaRalph's arcana... I much prefer EmpiSteve's limpid discussions of matters digital.

G.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I have modded some CEC transports to improve clocks and output circuits etc.. I dont mod anymore, but I know what they sound like.

I dont even have any CD player in my reference system, and its one of the best ones on the planet.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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