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Benchmark Dac1 - next step recommendations please

I've been using the Dac1 for over 6 months with my dvd player as a transport and long term I'm looking at computer->Dac solution.

While I like the Dac1 the next step is not as clear. Have folks used the USB Dac1 connected to their computer or perhaps upgraded to a higher-end Dac with a Squeezebox solution?

I've heard higher end players costing 3-5 times as much so I know you can get better sound. Current system: Dac1 - deHavilland UltraVerve - CJ 2500a

Thanks for the advice.
adasilva

Showing 2 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
You can actually have your cake and eat it too. With the I2S interface that Empirical puts on the DAC-1, you can add a USB to I2S converter, or a Sonos, Olive or Squeezebox reclocked through a Pace-Car reclocker. This gives you the most flexibility as well as the lowest jitter. No upsampling either.

If you go with the DAC-1 USB (which is a good product dont get me wrong), you will always go through the upsampler chip and you will have USB as your computer audio interface.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Streetdaddy - I have them and use them all, Squeezebox, Sonos, Off-Ramp USB converters. I like the Sonos myself. The output is very jittery stock however, so I highly recommend a Pace-Car reclocker. The first Zone player of Sonos needs a network drop. The additional ones can be wireless. There is no sound degradation with either. Do the demo at:

http://www.sonos.com

If you want the very best that Computer Audio can offer, then go with an I2S interface on the DAC of your choice rather than S/PDIF.
DAC's that have I2S:
Benchmark DAC-1, Northstar 192, Audio Logic, Spoiler, and the Perpetual P3A. The bonus with the DAC-1 is that it has a built-in preamp and balanced outs, however I highly recommend mods to it. You can drive your amps directly, but it is not remote controlled.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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