My server set up (via Vista/XX High End and ESI Juli@) sounds significantly better to my ears than my highly modified CD/SACD player which I have now sold and very good indeed with high resolution files. Very full sounding, detailed yet relaxing much like vinyl. I have heard the highly regarded Weiss Minerva in another system but the results did not make me want to rush out and buy one. It may deliver better sound than what I am experiencing via the Juli@ and I am prepared to accept that it would but I feel that in comparison with my vinyl rig (Basis Debut/Vector/Orpheus/Basis Exclusive) there remains a gulf so wide IMO that I cannot see digital ever bridging it. I have a lot of digital music and I wish that it sounded as good as high quality vinyl but it just doesn't. There is an immediacy with vinyl, a natural you are there experience that digital cannot match. I still enjoy listening to the music I have on digital and a lot of my collection is not available on vinyl but I never now listen to vinyl first and then change to digital as the immediate comparison makes digital significantly less satisfying.
Vinyl vs. Hi Resolution Computer Audio
Has anyone ever witnessed a competition between a really nice vinyl set up and a high resolution Computer Audio set up?
Something like the HDCD Reference Recordings using digital masters, Lynx sound card, and a nice DAC (Berkley Aplha DAC?) vs a classic Linn Sondek or a similar high end turntable set up? Which set up would you rather have if it was going to be delivered to your house tomorrow? Vinyl or computer?
Something like the HDCD Reference Recordings using digital masters, Lynx sound card, and a nice DAC (Berkley Aplha DAC?) vs a classic Linn Sondek or a similar high end turntable set up? Which set up would you rather have if it was going to be delivered to your house tomorrow? Vinyl or computer?