2. pc-audio
  3. 1339808426

DAC = thin sound


Hi guys. recently jumped to computer audio wagon. I have searched and read the web but I can't find any solution.

System:

DYNAUDIO 52SE -- speaker

EXPOSURE 2010S -- int. Amp

PS AUDIO DLIII -- DAC (not yet broke-in, less than 10hrs of use)

tried my macbook thru USB and Apple tv thru toslink

I might be imagining how thinly it sounds now, but also I would add that it adds tremendous information on my simple system now. Is it, because I hear a lot on higher frequency now compared before? or the fact it's upconverting my files?

any input/suggestion is welcome

Thanks

Jason
jastorg1

Showing 3 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
First, rip CD's using XLD to AIFF. Never use ALAC format. Second, install a decent playback software such as Audirvana, Pure Music or Amarra.

Finally, you may never get great sound using those interfaces. I've not heard them myself. You may need an upgrade USB converter or reclocker. The master clock in these interfaces is the most important part of any digital playback system, more important than the DAC itself.

More tips here (no advertising):
http://www.empiricalaudio.com/computer-audio/

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
ALAC is compressed, but lossless. It still impacts sound quality when using USB or S/PDIF from a Mac. AIFF is better, but also not without fault. I wish Apple would fix this. Only .wav is unscathed by the software.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Jast - you can fix this by adding a good USB converter and drive S/PDIF with a good 1.5m cable to the DAC.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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