I2S Input - Is It Better?


I've never used I2S on my DAC and CD transport, and until recently, didn't even understand what it was.
Just wondering if it's any better than AES or SPIDIF?  I am currently using the AES port for my CD player connection.  
Also, does the I2S just use a standard HDMI cable or do I need a fancier version to get the most from it?

128x128snackeyp

Showing 2 responses by snackeyp

Who ever thought this could be so confusing?  Anyway, I ordered a Holo Audio May DAC and my CD transport is a Jay's Audio CD-2MK2.  The transport has an I2S output and the DAC has an I2S input.  I'm going to contact the two manufacturers to see what they recommend.  I'll report back if I find out anything useful.  
I wrote to Tim Connor at Holo Audio about this and here is what he wrote in response (My question was in regards to using a Jay's Audio CD Transport with the May DAC):

"The May dac has two i2s inputs and they are both configurable to any i2s pin out if you want. But come standard holoaudio type pin out which is indentical for psaudio except dsd channel left and right are reversed. But if you are using cd the dsd channels are not used anyhow. Most likely it’s psaudio i2s pinout. But you can refer to the manual for the jays Device.
Also the May dac has a Manual too, it’s downloadable from the product page. And explains how to set up i2s if you need to change it to something different."

I also asked Tim if there was any significant improvement using I2S vs. AES/EBU and here is what he said:

"Personally I’m all about i2s. It’s the best all around. With a good Hdmi i2s cable it’s definitely a step up. The aes/eBu is as good as spdif gets bit imo Spdif is a bit dated. We have overcome a lot , if not all usb shortcoming and i2s is just beyond that. I personally use i2s always"

My May DAC is supposed to arrive next week.  I'll plan to start using the AES/EBU input with my transport at first.  Once I get familiar with the sounds I will probably give the I2S a try.  

Cheers