S/PDIF sounds more analog than AES/EBU


Hi folks, I have both Nirvana S/PDIF and AES/EBU cables. At the end I prefer the S/PDIF because to me it sounds more natural (more "analog") than the AES/EBU. Is S/PDIF more "analog" in general? Does AES/EBU sound more mechanical/sterile? My transport is the MBL 1621 and DAC is Accustic Arts Tube DAC. Thank you.

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by richards

I've done some comparisons IMS with AES/EBU and S/PDIF (RCA) cables and find that S/PDIF generally provided a deeper soundstage with a smoother and more relaxed presentation. The AES/EBU were more dynamic and upfront with a wider stage. Preferences depended on the individual cable brands as well as the particular recording I was listening to. Mostly though, I've settled on using S/PDIF at present (though my Tara 'One' has a BNC on the source end).

Tpsonic:
Could you explain in more detail why having both types of cables connected at the same time would affect each other, since one is selecting and de-selecting the inputs. All my comparisons were done with both cables connected and toggling between inputs.