I have a Node 3 and added an SMSL M400 DAC with MQA. I believe it is an improvement in sound quality over the streamers DAC. I can do a direct A-B comparison of a recoding in MQA and CD Quality playing on Radio Paradise. I have not been able to distinguish a difference between them.
Pontus ii and Hi Res
A bit new to streaming so apologies for a naive question. I’m streaming Tidal from a Bluesound Node into a new Denafrips Pontus ii via optical cable. Regardless of resolution (hi res or MQA), the DAC stays on 44.1 kHz x 1 multiplier. I tried setting the streamer audio to “MQA to external DAC”, but no difference. Also no difference toggling between OS and NOS
What am I missing? If the Pontus can’t unfold MQA or resolve anything above 44.1 (x1) is there any reason to keep Tidal’s highest res service? The DAC should certainly recognize higher res files...no?
Appreciate any ideas.