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USB-S/PDIF Converter or USB DAC?

I've decided it's time to use a music server with my main system. I currently use one (iBook) with my headphone system with the Grace m902 headphone amp with built-in USB DAC. I intend to get a new Intel iBook when they are released (March/April).

I currently have an unused Wavelength Audio S/PDIF DAC that I could use with a USB-S/PDIF converter (such as Empirical or Red Wine Audio) or get a USB DAC (WA Brick, Stello, ???). Is a dedicated USB DAC preferred over the hack USB-S/PDIF converter route?
budrew
dmitrydr
221 posts
 
What is the maximal reasonable length for USB connection? AFAIK after some length you have to put USB repeaters. It won't distort the data, but it may mess up timing, isn't it?
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drubin
3,267 posts
 
5M is the maximum length.

There's a great web site called "Google" where you can find out things like this or, it seems, just about anything.

Not sure what you mean about timing.
dmitrydr
221 posts
 
If any buffering involved, you may have delays resulting in pops and clicks...

So what do you guys do if the distance is more then 5m?
hagtech
173 posts
 
For more than 5m, use a USB-SPDIF converter first, then you can send a long way. Across the house. To the neighbors, even.

jh
josep_hernandez
50 posts
 
I had the same problem with the WA Brick and Gordon gave me the advice of using long ICs. I had bought two 5m USB extenders and it´s what I am using, but unfortunately it crackles every now and then. The IC route is way too expensive and I guess over time I will put the computer next to my system.
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