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Is computer audio a bust?

In recent months, I have had several audio acquaintances return to CDPs claiming improved SQ versus their highly optimized computer transports (SS drives, external power supplies, etc, etc).

I wanted to poll people on their experiences with computer "transports." What variables have had the most impact on sonics? If you bailed on computers, why?

I personally have always believed that the transport, whether its a plastic disc spinner or computer, is as or more important than the dac itself and thus considerable thought and energy is required.

agear

Showing 4 responses by mitch2

mitch2
3,685 posts
 
I agree with Raymonda on this subject - namely, that computer audio is rather a blessing than a bust
I agree with that too. Computer audio sounds better here. Also, once CD's are ripped, I find the accessibility of the music to be much easier than dealing with physical media. The contenders are MUSE Erato II player (MUSE's last top player before Kevin went on to play with HRT) against a 2012 mini with the full works by Mojo Audio using Pure Music (with upsampling to 24/88, memory play and less-is-more) into the Metrum HEX DAC.

I have no interest in convincing others what to like in their systems but, in my system, the computer source sounds better and will likely remain my primary source.
mitch2
3,685 posts
 
What was the most used source at RMAF?
What was the second most used source at RMAF?
mitch2
3,685 posts
 
I believe it would be crazy to have a computer set-up with all that is involved to have one on a system
I am curious why you think that? A computer source is quite portable and probably easier to set up than a turntable.

I was not at RMAF'14 but the pictures I have seen seem to show more than a few computer or digital server sources with DACs, and a good number of turntables too. IMO, vinyl will be around for awhile because people still enjoy the presentation, and computer audio is definitely NOT a bust, but rather a better method of achieving the same goal as a compact disc...playing music from digital media.
mitch2
3,685 posts
 
Anyone planning to "bail on computers" and "go back to CDs" REALLY needs to explore using a dedicated server such as Aries, Aurender, Antipodes, Lumin, etc....
  +1!
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