Heard the Computer Audio Design GC1

After I had reviewed the SONORE Signature Rendu SE for Dagogo.com they came out with the systemOptique upgrade; it's an Ethernet to optical converter leading to the Sig. Rendu. That was a shocking moment as well for the same reason, as the noise carried on the Ethernet connection was banished. Elimination of noise is a legit way to boost a system's performance. 

Audiophiles seem zany to talk about how "black" backgrounds are, and how much noise there is during quiet passages, etc. But, when you have a good enough system all these things are revealed quite clearly, and they make a big difference to the perceived quality of the recording and sound of the system. It's very much like the new lenses for the Hubble Space Telescope, in that when you can refine and refocus the system so many details that were previously obscured now are resolved and the image created is all the more stunning.  :) 

Yes, I use a special deal for that also.

Looking forward to your discussion of it when used in your system. :) 

I was with Peter (CTsooner) at Audioconnection when we had an audition of the GC1.
I can attest to a deeper, more nuanced reproduction. Very subtle information became more apparent. 
I found it hard to believe that such a non-active component could affect sound reproduction- but, Hey, this is high end audio, and there is a lot that seemingly defies reason, but provides better listening.
Bob

That really was an eye opener wasn't it?  I'm about to pull the trigger on getting one.  It's been the best under 2k tweak I've ever heard.  You can use one on each server, DAC and preamp.

The recommend using one on the earth to the system/power conditioner if you can afford it.  For me, I'm going with the CG1 on the server/integrated DAC as that most probably will be the biggest sound difference in my system.  I already run fairly clean power from dedicated lines to the system.

Not given to overstatement in describing audio gear, I nonetheless have to agree with the OP that this is a must listen product (see below). I came onto it in the ideal way--a friend brought one (the GC1 base model) to my house and I listened to it in my system. Although he was a knowledgeable audiophile and spoke highly of it, I really didn’t expect much. But once it had warmed up (essential), I was amazed at how it improved the sound from my already very high end system. Much deeper, quieter and opened-up soundscape (honestly, made me think of outer space), almost hauntingly so, the sound was cleaner, clearer and the music was just more fully realized. More enchantingly beautiful, I am forced to say. I auditioned it on a Sunday, and ordered one on Monday (also from John Rutan at Audio Connection in NJ). With the two required cables, it comes in at $2,700.  (Pricing structure is $1,995 for the GC1 and $350 each for the two required cables.) Not cheap but in audiophile dollar circles, a very cost effective purchase. Scott (the designer) suggested I hook it up to specific connections on my DAC and preamp (yes, he knew my specific equipment). The GC1 is small enough (sort of a long, rectangular tube shape) to share a shelf on my rack with my server. If you have no dealer nearby, my understanding is that it is 30 day money back, so one can be ordered with no risk. (Note that I have not auditioned similar products to compare.) Also, no deals are allowed--it is only available at retail.

Thanks for sharing. yes, it's an amazing product.  Scott is a genius.  I'm glad that Rutan turned us onto this device. It's a MUST get. I'm calling him in the morning to set up the purchase.  Just one of those rare devices that work.  

I heard these devices at Axpona last year. CAD had a complete system with at least three ground controls, their streamer and their DAC. The system sounded amazing to me - digital but not digital. It was hard to say what was making the magic but I purchased a CAD GC1 in hopes of capturing some of it. 

In my system it did several things
> much more tone color - sounded gray when I removed it
> much better low bass (I have Vandersteeen 5A carbons so when you change the bass it is very audible)
> smoother and quieter without loss of detail, especially with crescendos 

Indispensable devices IMO. I am going to get another one. 

It has improved every system I have been allowed to try it with.

Thanks for sharing.  Where did you purchase it?  I know they only have a small group of trained dealers.

I had a demo unit for a while. While it was good, I found that the Entreq and/or my DIY versions to be better.

ozzy

Just get in touch with CAD via their website - they'll either direct you to a dealer or will offer direct.

Hope that folks decide to support the dealer network.