Best affordable Linear Power Stage

@ghdprentice I'd agree for major streaming components like streamers and dacs shouldn't be any need for outboard power supplies. When I'm speaking of the need for outboard lps this pertains to the myriad network devices available for streaming.

As to discussion of DDC, I'm content my choice of going with Denafrips Gaia along with top quality I2S cable was best for both near and long term enjoyment. With the Gaia no need for outboard power supply, has top notch internal lps, great usb input optimization, best quality OXCO clock with top quality power supply for clock. Certainly the Gaia relatively high cost but keeping in mind both short and long term I believe it provides best value for a highly resolving streaming and system setup.

@ghdprentice,

As to discussion of DDC, I’m content my choice of going with Denafrips Gaia along with top quality I2S cable was best for both near and long term enjoyment. With the Gaia no need for outboard power supply, has top notch internal lps, great usb input optimization, best quality OXCO clock with top quality power supply for clock.

Good point here, even the Iris and the Hermes have no need for a outboard power supply and are very price competitive. I just wonder do we want to mix brands? Or do we want to stay with the same brand to get the ’house’ sound? Keep in mind I have NO idea what I’m talking about here, I’m just spitballing...

@tyray I've never heard a 'house' sound from network and clocking devices or network cables. these only affect transparency/resolution, have no affect on either tonality or timbre. I2S and usb cables affect tonal balance to a small degree, also transparency/resolution. Voicing comes from dac and rest of audio system.

@sns Thanks for your answer.

@toneranger58,

https://forum.audiogon.com/posts/2789900

Do you know what the difference is between the LAIV uDDC version of the 5V and the standard? Can’t find anything on it.