can the BDA-3 interpret I2s data over an HDMI cable?
I do not think so and do not think there is any standard for that. I am pretty sure the BDA-3 will only play DSD files through its USB input.
A question about the Bryston BDA-3's HDMI inputs
Ever since I got my Cambridge Audio CXU disc player, I've been intrigued by the Bryston BDA-3 DAC, and this goes back a good few years now. The CA player can output DSD via HDMI, but very few DACS can accept this kind of connection. In fact, the BDA-3 is the only one I know of that can do it. However, the current protocol for DSD is I2s which also typically uses HDMI. Now it gets a little complicated...
I have a Shanling ET-3 CD transport that can output I2s over HDMI. While I don't think it can actually read an SACD disc, it can output DSD from USB drives so in that way can render these hi-res files. Otherwise, it's basically a redbook CD spinner with the capability of upsampling. So my question is, for those of you who have better knowledge of this protocol, can the BDA-3 interpret I2s data over an HDMI cable?
I'm asking this because these Bryston DACs are being sold for a very attractive price these days on the used market. I've owned both a BDA-1 and a BDA-2 in the past so I do have some idea what the 3 will sound like. My current DAC is a Sonnet Morpheus which can only do I2s via an ethernet cable, and that really limits the choices.
Advice and opinions are welcome. Thanks!
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I had bought the BDA-3 precisely for its ability to play the DSD from SACD over HDMI. I use an Oppoo 105 to output theDSD. I believe that @cleeds is correct here |
I think this is the only thing that can do DSD from SACD disks via HDMI. GeerFab Audio D.BOB Digital BreakOut Box (OPEN) – Upscale Audio I use it to play my SACDs from a cheap OPPO. I use a Benchmark DAC3B to do the conversion of the digital steam I get from the D.BOB. |
This TAS review of the BDA-3 seems to suggest that you can play sacd via the HDMI port here is an excerpt: In head-shakingly stark contrast, SACD playback over HDMI from the Sony BDP-BX37 (used exclusively after the BDP-6200’s disc drawer mysteriously locked shut) sounded dramatically more open, incisive, controlled, focused, linear, and responsive to the ebb and flow of musical contour Full review here: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/bryston-bda-3-dac/
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The BDA-3 can definitely play SACDs from an HDMI input, although few SACD players offer that option. The Oppo that @mahler123 is using is one of the few that does. |
Update: in the end, I've gone a different direction by buying a Denafrips Pontus Gen-15, the newest iteration of that DAC. Price was irresistible, and it appears that this new version is analogous to the previous Venus II 12th in design and sound. Its main allure for me was its ability to accept I2s via HDMI, which is a connection I've been wanting to use with my Shanling ET-3 transport. I'm still running this DAC in for the next week or so, as suggested by the seller (Audioman58 here on Audiogon). So far I'm very impressed indeed, but let's see how things improve with proper burn-in. I'll post a more detailed review in its own thread when everything's settled in. |