playback mps-5 v dcs puccini

I've heard the Puccini side by side with an EMM Labs XDS1.

I ended up picking the XDS1. Easier to make out different instruments/layers/vocals (in this respect it is similar to the MPS5 from memory) and noticeably lower noise floor (vs the Puccini) on the XDS1

I haven't had the chance to compare the XDS1 side by side with the MPS5 yet but from memory, they are more similar than they are dissimilar. The XDS1 seems to have a lower noise floor, the MPS5 has more decay/resonance in the mid bass which I kinda like.

The MPS5 also comes with the USB-X box now which allows you to send DSD audio over USB. That's pretty cool. The XDS1 has no such provision. dCS says they'll upgrade their USB devices to support this if there's industry acceptance but no commit on deliverables.

When I get the chance to put the XDS1 next to the MPS5, I'll post again.

I'll need to run in the XDS1 first :) The MPS5 I had on loan was fully run in and yes, I was damn impressed with it when I heard it in my system.

Unfortunately, I am not in the same country as my system at the moment.

A real bummer.

Can't wait to get the chance to hear the 2 side by side.

You should get the USB-X box.

Get a Mac Mini with SSD and load it up with memory. Run some optimization to cut out unwanted background processes and dedicate the machine for music playback. Run Audirvana+ with Direct/INT mode and a good USB cable (I am using Cynosure from Locus)

IMHO it's getting to the point where the computer is about equal if not exceeding the built in transport.

I think as long as the machine is dedicated and you can disable background processes