Oversampling DAC Vs. Non Oversampling?


What are the advantages/disadvantages of oversampling vs. non oversampling DACS? I have a Squeezebox 3 and I love it, but I want to buy a DAC and I am not sure which to buy. I listen to Internet radio on the Squeezebox most of the time, which is usually around 128 KBPS and sounds good. However, I want to use the DAC for two-channel home theatre as well, and I will route the DVD through the DAC via a digital cable to listen to music from time to time. What to do? Thanks!!
regafan_1972

Showing 1 response by rooski

On the other hand, I've tried a Valab dac, and although I find it easy to listen to, I find the overall sound to lack the elements that bring "life" to the music. I can't really pinpoint what I hear, but it's kind of "mechanical" sounding, as if certain elements of music are missing. Imagine seeing the difference between a robot walking down the street, and a human walking down the street, and you'll see that the robot is missing the fine movements required to fully replicate the human's "lifelike" flow. Well, apply this type of comparison to listening to reproduced music, and that's the difference I hear when comparing my Valab to either of my 24/96 players. For me, the Valab lacks "life", and sounds more "mechanical", and my OS players have a much better sense of realistic tone, depth and believability.

To put is simpler, with the Valab, although it did sound smooth and easy to listen to, my brain was always aware I was listening to something "reproduced", and never could "suck myself" into the music, if you know what I mean.

Am I making sense?