Streamers with I2S connectivity

snafujg, how is your Denafrips Terminator DAC working out? According to Psaudio the advantage IF streamer is connected through I2S interconnect vs other connection - the PCM(inter iC sound) audio data transport, bit clock line data, work select line(L or R channel) & data line is all matching between the network streamer and the DAC (with I2S). Therefore there is no need to take apart aforementioned data only to assemble the scrambled data again at the DAC level eliminating any chance of data loss. Engineers haven’t quantify this loss but some say 5-7%, audible? There are other factors at the network stream transport & DAC level that affects sound is: bigger internal space vs. cramped all in one unit, better internal/external linear power supply(possibly multiples if well executed) and magnetic shielding strategy, using shielded power cords etc. I’m a bit late to this discussion but I just bought Soundaware D300 network streamer, lowest price at $1900 usd that seem to meet these requirements. I was told that the user interface is not the greatest but as long as i use Roon it’ll be great. I will let you know as soon as it arrives in about a week. Cheers!
Stephen

The I2S is the best input for the Terminator.  I improved the USB output of an Innuos Statement with the Denafrips Iris DDC and not by a little bit.  

I haven't made any moves yet as I was waiting for the Denafrips DDCs to come out.  I'm still using a Bluesound Node 2i for a streamer so I'm looking at either the Hermes or GAIA since they accept Digital Coax input.  If I had a USB streamer, the Iris would be all I needed.  The Hermes and GAIA cover all streamer inputs so kind of future proof myself.  

A DDC is my expected next move, though.  

Hey snafujg, 

Just following up to see if you've added the DDC to your setup?  I'm awaiting the terminator and i'm interested to hear if the conversion to I2S is a noticeable improvement with the Node.  I've got the Node2 as well and like it's functionality, stability and ease of use.  Problem with looking at the Gaia or Aries now makes me think I should have gone for the T+ so I can get the benefit of the clock features.  Whats a few more bucks!!  :(

I use an Innuos Zen 3 into my Pontus via USB. Do I really need a Digital converter and use i2s instead? I heard that the sound would be leaner using the i2s?