I have an MHDT Labs Orchid DAC in my main desktop system. For years I ran it off the digital coax signal from a SPDIF converter. A couple years ago I decided to try a DDC. Ended up buying the first generation Matrix Audio X-SPDIF converter. I installed it in the system in place of the SPDIF converter (using the same coax cable), and immediately heard small but worthwhile differences in soundstaging and the focus/palpability of notes. That's the only DDC I tried, and it's a keeper.
Do I really Need a Digital to Digital Converter?
Over the last few years I have continued to upgrade my digital front end and currently use an Auralic G2 (with upgraded power supply) and a Musician Pegasus R2R DAC. Some of the (mostly Asian) DAC manufacturers also make digital to digital converters (like the Denefrips Iris and Hermes).
So my questions are, if what these DDCs do so important, why aren’t they built into into DACs or Streamers in the first place. Are they only incorporated in higher end digital gear but not gear at the level I am using?. What will adding one of these bring to the table or should I just upgrade my DAC or Streamer to get the same result? Do I really need another piece of gear and another set of cables to clutter up my rack?
Appreciate input from anyone who as direct experience with these DDCs in their audio journey.