2. pc-audio
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Importance of computer for DAC shootout

I am using a perfectwave DAC + bridge + modwright 36.5 LS/PS preamp to stream flacs over my network. Very happy with the sound, but intrigued by the idea of getting better SQ for less $$$ I will soon be auditioning an Antelope Zodiac Gold + Volticus over USB, directly into my poweramp. Being able to take out the modwright alone would pay for the new DAC. My only concern is the Computer I will be using for this shootout. I have a Dell laptop and an Asus media PC, both with USB 1.0.

If I opt for the Zodiac I will go all out on computer source (may be mach2music), but I don't want to invest before knowing if I even want to go down the USB path.

In you estimation, is there any chance of the computer used in my shootout distorting the outcome? Would I be better off using my Marantz ud9004 S/PDIF source for the Zodiac, and then get a better computer if the Zodiac wins the contest?

Or are the difference between computer sources small and will I be able to conclude which is the better DAC using a mediocre PC as the source for the Zodiac. Any advise on how to set up the hardware for the shootout is welcome.
edorr

Showing 1 response by 4est

4est
507 posts
 
For starters you might want to test file types and player programs. On my system I notice a distinct and repeatable difference in them (alac,flac,aiff and wav). Yes, I realize that there should be none, alas.

If your system can resolve those differences, there is a good chance that you will realize the benefits of other cpu related changes- just as with a turntable.

I am sure that someone will chime in here stating that I am a fool, and bits are bits. FWIW, I was very skeptical before I did the test. In fact, I needed to do the test three times over months before I would believe (in) it.
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