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Long runs - USB or RCA???

I'm considering an "external HD > laptop (PC - iTunes) > USB DAC" setup in my office. My audio rack is 15' away from my listening position where the laptop/exHD will be. My question is - do I position the DAC near the listening position and run 15' analog RCA cables to my integrated amp in the rack or do I site the DAC in the audio rack and run a 15' USB cable to the DAC? I know that with certain RCAs, I'll be susceptible to RFI; will a long-run USB cable potentially have the same problem? Any recommendations of either flavor cable to avoid the RFI? Thanks.
soulbrass

Showing 1 response by audiobb

audiobb
103 posts
 
Why not use a USB/SP DIF converter?Use a short USB cable to converter and then long digital RCA cable from converter to DAC.I currently do so in my office.
I use 10 metres (22 feet) of digital cable.Results are great.
USB signal is usually also converted to SP DIF inside the DAC.
My tech told me that long USB cable degrades the sound,but i never tried it.
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