2. pc-audio
  3. 135821-6855

JCAT Femto USB Card

I would like bring awareness to something that has drastically changed my computer audio experience: the JCAT Femto USB card.

The USB was very easy to install specially since Win 10 Pro recognizes the card without installing a driver - true plug-n-play. I was initially unimpressed with the sound and decided to burn in the card by continuously feeding signal through it for a week. OK, now I'm impressed. The imaging is so surefooted/solid and are emerging from a black background that I'm now experiencing my system in a way I have not experienced before. Even bass and midbass produces a solid image. The soundstage has become well layered and has grown a bit in height possibly due to increased midrange clarity. I thought my computer setup was excellent which is why I did not anticipate such a great improvement. My system is very revealing and all components have been modified with upgrades such as capacitors, resistors, diodes, fuse swaps, etc. This upgrade is a large step toward realism and allows my system to show off it's capabilities. The JCAT USB Femto card is highly recommended.

I ordered from the highend-audiopc website and had a positive purchasing experience.

It's good to see new products in the small PC audio market. Hopefully, in time, we'll see better competition and prices.
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Showing 1 response by jay73

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jay73
219 posts
 
I have a question about the,  JCAT Femto USB card.

I am wondering if using this card would improve the sound quality of my very entry level system?

Here is my equipment:

- HTPC (built it myself)
- Questyle CMA400i DAC
- Vincent Audio SV-500 Integrated Amp
- Martin Logan Motion 40 Speakers
- Jriver Software

I have also read that getting a better USB cable could also improve sound quality.

From my computer, I listen to the following formats of music: DSD, Qobuz and ripped CD's (FLAC).

I would say everything sound pretty good but am wondering if combo of the  JCAT Femto USB card. + better quality USB cable could produce significant improvements?

Would I need anything else? I was also reading about a power supply?

Is that a optional power supply that connects to the USB card and is it necessary?

And final question, I am assuming I would need to configure Jriver to work with the USB card, is that correct?

Thanks
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