2. pc-audio
  3. 190748-82684

Why did this just happen ?

Folks ,

I have been using an old (2012) iMac with a 1TB SS drive for years. It is connected to an old Benchmark USB DAC that feeds my refurbished(2X) Audio Research SP IX mark 2 preamp into my Quicksilver KT88 mono blocks that feed my Pro Ac SE’s. 

I just bought a used 2020 MacBook Pro($400.00) to replace the old iMac. I connected it to my USB DAC via a usb C to usb converter.

AND BAM ! The resolution is stunning. I would equate it to a $5K upgrade in any part of my chain. It is truly an ear opener.

What did this ?

The USB C ?, The MacBook isn’t doing anything but output the data to my USB DAC.

I would love to hear from any of you who might know the reason for this wonderful improvement.

Eugene

eugenegearty

Showing 1 response by jji666

jji666
592 posts
 

My primary guess would be that the newer Mac has a newer OS with improved drivers for the DAC, and that what you were using before was "crippled" relative to the driver. 

Either that or you find the effect of using a hub between your Mac and DAC to be euphonic and pleasing.  Just in general, USB hubs are not recommended for use with DACs, so you might want to connect directly.  

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