To DDC or not to DDC. That is the question.

If you are using a computer as your streamer, I think a DDC will almost always help.

If you are using a dedicated audiophile streamer, it's very hit or miss.  

I contacted Merason directly and the DAC designer and founder of Merason responded. The DAC1 is built with the USB input optimized and he does not believe that an additional DDC would be of benefit unless I was using coax or AES/EBU. I’m using an Eversolo A6 with Beatechnik LPS as streamer. 

From Daniel Frauchiger: "In combination with the USB input, a DDC should generally not be necessary, as the incoming signal is re-clocked internally using very precise clocks. In the case of SPDIF or AES connections, however, a DDC can sometimes provide an audible benefit depending on the source and overall system synergy — this is something that ultimately has to be evaluated in practice."

@audphile1 I have to say thank you for reminding me I have a CD Player!! I’ve been listening to and rediscovering my CDs over the past couple weeks and the Merason DAC1 has given them a new life. And I have well over 1000 of them collecting dust!! 

@maprik I’m very happy to hear you’re enjoying music. There’s something to be said about physical media. The sound is more alive than streaming in most cases, be it vinyl or CD. It’s got to do with both the mastering and delivery. That’s my theory and I’m sticking to it. Lol

Although Roon, after the major update few weeks ago, sounds spectacular in its own right. I’ve been listening to streaming exclusively for almost two weeks as I sent my phono stage out for a trade in. Can’t wait to get back to spinning vinyl.