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Apple TV sound quality as a transport

I recently switched from a DVD Changer into a Channel Island DAC to an Apple TV into the same DAC. I was under the impression that the DAC was ultimately responsible for the sound but I swear it actually sounds better. The only change other than the Apple TV is the switch from coaxial from the DVD to optical from the ATV. Is it possible that the ATV sounds better than my DVD changer as a transport?
macallan7
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
It's possible, what files is the AppleTV sending to the DAC? If they are ripped lossless files (AppleLossless or FLAC) then it could be better.

But if it sounds better to you, then it definitely sounds better.
hellofidelity
77 posts
 
It's very possible. The Apple TV and Airport Express make an excellent music source. I've designed them into systems for years and always get excellent performance and reliability. If the files are uncompressed or lossless and the DAC is worthy, the ATV can rival the finest CD players in the world.
rbstehno
1,401 posts
 
the cables could make a difference. i switched from plastic to glass toslink from my apple tv's or airport express units and there was a difference. i also go to a jitter device between the apple tv and the dac. another big improvement over going directly from the atv to the dac.
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