Although i2S is widely regarded as a superior connection, it really depends on how a component is designed as to which connection is best. Although I use an i2S connection, I would not let that be the deciding factor on which component to purchase — that will always be which one produces the sound characteristics I’m looking for. That said, Jays does i2S and would be a great choice, but I was recently made aware of the Shanling ET3 at only $729 that also offers i2S and that’d be high on my radar although not sure of its reliability as it’s relatively new I think. Most major manufacturers are likely compatible for i2S (the smaller boutique brands seem more hit or miss), but it’s always best to check with a manufacturer if the pin configuration will work between two components before buying. Not many streamers have i2S outs at this point, but a workaround would be to get a DDC that can convert to i2S and also potentially offer further benefits like a better clock, galvanic isolation, etc. I went this route and added a Denafrips Iris DDC to be able to take advantage of my Musician Pegasus DAC’s i2S input and was frankly surprised by the overall level of improvement (over RCA without the DDC) to the point that I’d encourage almost everyone who uses a DAC to at least try a DDC as it can be a very cost-effective and worthwhile improvement. There are many DACs — and several at relatively low price points — that now offer i2S inputs so that’s become less of a hurdle. So to sum up, I’d put sound characteristics first in making component decisions, but all else equal if you can get components with i2S I’d say it’s very worthwhile to have. One last thought — if you do use i2S it’s important that the connecting cable (usually HDMI) be as short as possible as the signal degrades quickly with distance as it was designed for use internally within components so distance wasn’t part of the development need/protocol. Hope this helps, and best of luck.
Seeking Streamer & Dac that has 12s outputs and inputs
In my quest to upgrade my Dac and streamer, I was looking at 12s compatible equipment which is said to provide the best sound available. I need a transport and streamer that have 12s outputs and a Dac that has 12s inputs. The issue seems to be that there is no standard established for the 12s architecture, as well as limited availability of same. Are the manufacturers actively adding 12s inputs & outputs to their equipment? In 12S outputs I see the Jay's Audio having 12s. I currently own a Lumin U2 mini and if I wanted to upgrade with another Lumin streamer, I do not believe Lumin offers a streamer with 12S. As far as 12S inputs not many dacs provide 12S. I believe that what I am seeking is very hard to find. My alternative is to just buy equipment that is fully balanced. My rationale being that fully balanced provide better sound that RCA connections. Any thoughts would be appreciated. If I am wrong about any of my assumptions I would be happy to be corrected. Thank you.