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Value of Adding Bridge II to Direct Stream DAC

Hi All.  I've got a PS Audio Direct Stream DAC running the latest (Redcloud) firmware, with a good deal of both power supply and digital signal purification in front of it (including a Singxer USB=>I2S converter).  This additional "cleaning" improves the sound, which is already quite good.  I'm curious about how adding a Bridge II would affect/improve sound quality.  I understand it means that I would no longer use the USB connection between the computer and the DAC. Most of my music is played off a hard drive connected to my Mac Mini, though I've been streaming Tidal a bit lately using Audirvana.  I'm mostly interested in effects on SQ from the hard drive, but also interested in effects on streaming from the net.  If anyone has made this move, can you tell me what you've observed regarding SQ changes?  Thanks, Peter
peter_s
3 responses Add your response
marktomaras
544 posts
 
Peter, 

i have a perfect wave Wave Dac mkII, with Bridge II. I can say without a doubt, the bridge over USB is the Way to go! Before bridge 2 came out, I was using the original bridge. The tests between USB and bridge or no comparison. Healthy increase in sound quality. Now that bridge 2 has been released, You have the added benefit of being able to control your system with Roon, which is the best music management software I have ever used. As an owner of a $6000 DAC, the $800 upgrade of bridge  two is a no-brainer.
peter_s OP
1,335 posts
 
Thanks Mark.  That may be the case.  I can purchase with 30-day return from PSA, or maybe elsewhere for a bit cheaper.  I could also look into trade ins.  

I would, however, like to hear from folks who have upgraded their DSD with the Bridge.  Anybody?
cal3713's avatar
cal3713
1,421 posts
 
I have one in a pwd II and it is so much better than usb. So good that I don't think I'll ever go back to usb. 

As for purchasing, just look for a couple ps audio dealers on agon and email about possible deals. They often offer substantial discounts. Should be mandatory behavior for any psa purchase, really...
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