DAC or. Lynx 2 sound card with Vista OS

Hi Shaq,

I own a Lynx 2B sound card, a couple of outboard DACs, as well as Avalon Opus speakers. Regarding the Lynx with the Eidolons, unless you are running some tubes somewhere in the chain to fill out the sound, I would be worried that the Lynx would not be a good fit. While the Lynx is a good performer as a sound card, the Eidolon's are so transparent that all of the problems inherent in the PC (noise, power supply, environment), combined with the fact that the Lynx is designed with the accuracy needed for mastering in mind, will most likely result in some glare and thinness. The Lynx fits in very well on some systems and sounds very similar to the Benchmark DAC 1, but in my opinion neither of these are an enjoyable combo with Avalon speakers.

My favorite affordable DAC is currently the MHDT Labs Havana, but it is not ideal when driven via USB. If you really want to go USB, you might consider looking into some of the Wavelength products, but they can be quite expensive.

Alan

Following the install of the M audio AP192, using 16/44 via analog outs, I'd have to say for the entry fee, anyone seeking a DAC less PC addition to their stereo sys ought to take a peek... Do ensure the driver is the latest version. however.

I swapped it out of my main pc into a secondary one by myself. 15 - 20 min tops including driver install.
It sure doesn't sound like digital. The ICs will have a lot to do with that too.

just a thought here... you know lynx also makes a lesser input/output card with I believe the same didgital features for $700... it's the "L22". 2 ins and outs vs. 4. U Save $300... if you're determined to go that way.

hard question...

if you will not record music/sound, go for the DAC.

the lynx its an amazing soundcard, best drivers, verry nice AD/DA, nice wordclock, i own the AES16, and RME hdsp too, nice DSP mixer, but the DAC its a DAC.

if the DAC usb drivers are not working ok,
most low quality soundcards can output s/pdif from the 1/8" trs, any hi quality DAC with s/pdif in and jitter removal will work, Great! no need for USB. just good cables.

While USB is not the ideal form of transmission neither is S/PDIF. Having an internal soundcard (PCI, etc.) is also inherently a bad idea as you will output the noise, of which there is plenty, and interference from inside the computer.

An external connection whether it is called a DAC or soundcard is preferable. Firewire beats USB, but is far from a holy grail. An external power source (not computer powered) is also highly desirable. It then becomes product specific once you limit the basic disadvantages.

I fully agree with the above poster about the noise output with a detailed system. I have one. I'm still experimenting with output options, and my Paradisea+ DAC (non-USB) which enjoys a good synergy with my system. I also have Windows Vista and prefer to avoid soundcard driver issues. ;)

A well designed USB or Firewire DAC seems to be the best solution. There are assorted choices in these categories, and as usual one needs to try and hear for themselves in his/her system. USB chipset, DAC chipset, jitter reduction, capacitors, etc. all assembled leaves lots of variables. Welcome to the never ending hobby, lol.