UPDATE:
Just thought I should update my previous posting on ST fiber vs. s/pdif. My initial brief comparison was carried out with an anti jitter device in the chain.
This combo interfered with bit perfect playback. Long story short, my Synergistic Research D2 with RCA ends and G-MPC is far superior to the ST fiber. Its actually no contest. Much more air, depth and analog sound. This is
a disappointment for me because the SR D2 retails at $1200.00. I was hoping to sell it. However, at only $100.00, the ST fiber is a no brainer, and a nice option to have. I also did a brief comparison with a BNC Stereovox cable. The ST fiber is a tad more softer sounding with a little bit more weight. I did get a little bit more depth with the Stereovox.
After using the Lightlink via ST fiber, I was under the impression that the ST fiber was the way to go. But I was mistaken. Every variable is system dependent, so take this with a grain of salt. My system leans on the warm, magic carpet ride side of the spectrum. So, result will vary, and it is advantageous to experiment with different digital cables.
As for the BADA alpha DAC/BADA USB and BADA USB/Bel Canto DAC 3.5 combos, they made my ears bleed. Keep in mind, this is from a personal perspective, and not from a marketing perspective. Component mismatches
do happen, and it always pays to try before you buy.
Just thought I should update my previous posting on ST fiber vs. s/pdif. My initial brief comparison was carried out with an anti jitter device in the chain.
This combo interfered with bit perfect playback. Long story short, my Synergistic Research D2 with RCA ends and G-MPC is far superior to the ST fiber. Its actually no contest. Much more air, depth and analog sound. This is
a disappointment for me because the SR D2 retails at $1200.00. I was hoping to sell it. However, at only $100.00, the ST fiber is a no brainer, and a nice option to have. I also did a brief comparison with a BNC Stereovox cable. The ST fiber is a tad more softer sounding with a little bit more weight. I did get a little bit more depth with the Stereovox.
After using the Lightlink via ST fiber, I was under the impression that the ST fiber was the way to go. But I was mistaken. Every variable is system dependent, so take this with a grain of salt. My system leans on the warm, magic carpet ride side of the spectrum. So, result will vary, and it is advantageous to experiment with different digital cables.
As for the BADA alpha DAC/BADA USB and BADA USB/Bel Canto DAC 3.5 combos, they made my ears bleed. Keep in mind, this is from a personal perspective, and not from a marketing perspective. Component mismatches
do happen, and it always pays to try before you buy.