@hickamore,
Without a doubt N10’s SPDIF and AES/EBU audio outputs are superior over its USB output due to signal from these outputs being regulated by one of the finest on-board OCXO clock. I’ve used both of these outputs for a very long time with DAC’s prior to acquiring EMM Labs DA2.
@auxinput makes a good point about USB implementation in your DAC. I have used couple of DAC’s with N10 that did not have SOTA
DA2’s meticulous and superb implementation of DSD and USB. In that setup, N10 shines via SPDIF and AEX/EBU output. But with DA2 DAC, I am unable to tell the difference between USB and SPDIF or AES outputs. For the sake of convenience and simplicity (one less $$$ digital cable) I am now listening N10 through USB only as it supports wide variety of resolutions without the hassle of switching back and forth between PCM and USB.
Another fine example of SOTA USB implementation in a server/ renderer is Innuos Statement but it cost almost twice as much. You can get a less expensive server in Innuos line up and add USB re-clocker to get as close to Statement performance but then you’re also looking at extra shelf space, USB and Power cables.
I have yet to find another renderer that can rival N10’s superlative sound quality, exquisite build, versatility and superb Conductor app.
Without a doubt N10’s SPDIF and AES/EBU audio outputs are superior over its USB output due to signal from these outputs being regulated by one of the finest on-board OCXO clock. I’ve used both of these outputs for a very long time with DAC’s prior to acquiring EMM Labs DA2.
@auxinput makes a good point about USB implementation in your DAC. I have used couple of DAC’s with N10 that did not have SOTA
DA2’s meticulous and superb implementation of DSD and USB. In that setup, N10 shines via SPDIF and AEX/EBU output. But with DA2 DAC, I am unable to tell the difference between USB and SPDIF or AES outputs. For the sake of convenience and simplicity (one less $$$ digital cable) I am now listening N10 through USB only as it supports wide variety of resolutions without the hassle of switching back and forth between PCM and USB.
Another fine example of SOTA USB implementation in a server/ renderer is Innuos Statement but it cost almost twice as much. You can get a less expensive server in Innuos line up and add USB re-clocker to get as close to Statement performance but then you’re also looking at extra shelf space, USB and Power cables.
I have yet to find another renderer that can rival N10’s superlative sound quality, exquisite build, versatility and superb Conductor app.