Is computer audio a bust?


In recent months, I have had several audio acquaintances return to CDPs claiming improved SQ versus their highly optimized computer transports (SS drives, external power supplies, etc, etc).

I wanted to poll people on their experiences with computer "transports." What variables have had the most impact on sonics? If you bailed on computers, why?

I personally have always believed that the transport, whether its a plastic disc spinner or computer, is as or more important than the dac itself and thus considerable thought and energy is required.

agear

Showing 7 responses by kr4

No promise. Running two server systems, both with full, multichannel DSD/DXD capabilities and files. The convenience is a given but the sound quality amazes.
Agear asked: What servers platforms are you using and what is your source materials for multi-channel tunes?
1. Files are stored on a NAS in remote room.
2. Network is hard-wired.
3. Fanless, PC-based servers runs JRiver MC on SSD.
4. USB-connected DACs
5. Multichannel analog preamp/control

Can play PCM/FLAC/DSF/DFF/ISO/DXD. Files are rips and downloads.
[quote]Mapman wrote: Not sure many if any CD players
support USB, so apples and apples comparison there to
computer USB is not easy to do.[/quote]

Some do. I know that some Oppos and Marantz do. Probably
others.
We understand what you are saying, Audiolabyrinth, it's is just than some of us don't accept your arguments about cables and find them irrelevant to this topic.

And best of luck to you, too.
"Also I am playing music in double DSD and don't think SP Dif can do that." Right nor can it do HD/DSD multichannel.
Thanks, Raymonda. Since my interest is only in extracting files and not in remastering, I will stick with EAC and dbPowerAmp.