I want to try my SPDIF output, but have some n00b questions.

9designs2 · 4 Mar 2009 at 08:58

Now we are getting into the new area of streaming data, and SPDIF is NOT the way to go, as it is subject to jitter and timing issues. The error free way to do this is over CAT5 and LAN connection, where the data is fed into a buffer into the DAC. The the PC/NAS drive can out perform even the best Transport. I now use this method myself, NAS drive into Linn Akurate streaming DAC.

gt_junkie · 4 Mar 2009 at 09:45

I'd never contemplate using analogue from my PC - since buying a Beresford 7510 and using my mobo's onboard digital out the difference is night and day.

It surprisingly musical and makes using my PC for gaming and audio playback a pleasure.

Having compared the output of the PC to that of my Cyrus CD7Q (using the 7510 and a pair of Sennheiser HD650's) i would say that there is almost no difference... certainly not enough to concern myself with anyway!

gt

kennyhkw · 7 Mar 2009 at 20:31

Firegod said:
Bi-wiring must do something though.... otherwise why would all the speakers have that feature?

See if your still using the little 'jumper bars' to connect the terminals, i suggest you change them for speaker cable as this will make a noticeable diff.

Bi-wire makes bugger all difference tho, but i personally do it cos it looks cool behind the speaker!

Firegod · 8 Mar 2009 at 08:48

Hello!

Wow, a lot more replies. For some reason I haven't had the notifications in my email so I'm sorry for not replying.

I definately think I'm going to try and get a hold of a DAC (borrow or test) and see what I make of it.

Ste · 8 Mar 2009 at 11:18

Now we are getting into the new area of streaming data, and SPDIF is NOT the way to go, as it is subject to jitter and timing issues. The error free way to do this is over CAT5 and LAN connection, where the data is fed into a buffer into the DAC. The the PC/NAS drive can out perform even the best Transport. I now use this method myself, NAS drive into Linn Akurate streaming DAC.

Can you elaborate on this a bit? Sounds interesting - are you talking about a standard NAS drive and DAC, or is this only possible through certain DACs?

Does the Linn have cat5 input or something?

james.miller · 8 Mar 2009 at 11:22

oli collett said:
imo - no, I don't think you would see any benefit at all. The only benefit I can see in bi-amping is where you have speakers that are particularly difficult to drive and I doubt your amp is struggling.

oh i dont know, i found improvements even driving a set of budget missions, which im still trying to find replacements for lol

9designs2 · 8 Mar 2009 at 16:23

Ste said:
Can you elaborate on this a bit? Sounds interesting - are you talking about a standard NAS drive and DAC, or is this only possible through certain DACs?

Does the Linn have cat5 input or something?

There are few media streaming dac's about now, most famous I guess is logitech squeeze box.

Basically I have a QNAP TS109 NAS running the pre installed Media Twonky, it plugs into my Router, and the Linn Akurate DS "DAC" hooks into the router by standard CAT5 network patch lead.
It's then controlled by either my PDA, Nokia N800, wireless laptop or any UPnP compliant device..... PC is only required for ripping and uploading to the NAS drive. SQ is better than just about any CDP you can get.
OK The Akurate DS is not cheap, but then as I say others do the same principle for less money, and less SQ of course