2. pc-audio
  3. 1141850991

USB-S/PDIF Converter or USB DAC?

I've decided it's time to use a music server with my main system. I currently use one (iBook) with my headphone system with the Grace m902 headphone amp with built-in USB DAC. I intend to get a new Intel iBook when they are released (March/April).

I currently have an unused Wavelength Audio S/PDIF DAC that I could use with a USB-S/PDIF converter (such as Empirical or Red Wine Audio) or get a USB DAC (WA Brick, Stello, ???). Is a dedicated USB DAC preferred over the hack USB-S/PDIF converter route?
budrew

Showing 2 responses by splaskin

splaskin
170 posts
 
For your USB extension, check out this optical cable:

http://www.usbstuff.com/opticis.html

I use a 65 foot optical usb extensnion with no loss or degradation of the signal.

If you are using a PC, the following ASIO driver is superior to the ASIO4ALL

http://www.asio2ks.de/index.html

Using this driver, I have no pops or ticks with the Cosecant. The settings on J. River and Foobar are minimum buffering.

I hope this helps you,

Steve
splaskin
170 posts
 
Belkin stated that the release of the wireless USB hub will be in Sept. The chip maker backed out of the deal.
More to discover