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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
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.
splaskin
170 posts
 
For your USB extension, check out this optical cable:

http://www.usbstuff.com/opticis.html

I use a 65 foot optical usb extensnion with no loss or degradation of the signal.

If you are using a PC, the following ASIO driver is superior to the ASIO4ALL

http://www.asio2ks.de/index.html

Using this driver, I have no pops or ticks with the Cosecant. The settings on J. River and Foobar are minimum buffering.

I hope this helps you,

Steve
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Belkin will also be offering a wireless USB Hub in July 06. This will have the bandwidth for 24/96.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
drubin
3,274 posts
 
>wirless USB hub

What does that mean, exactly? Is it a separate USB network (with the hub as access point and wireless-enabled USB receivers or devices communicating with the hub) or part of an 802.11x network?
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