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With I2S how much does the streamer hardware matter?

I just received a Pi 2 Design Mercury V2 streamer and have for the first time an I2S connection to my R2R DACs. It sounds really good thru my Aries 12th into Woo Audio WA22 headphone system.

Can anyone tell me if there is any real advantage in keeping a ($5k) Lumin U1 for my main stereo system (into Denafrips Venus II and tube integrated) with its USB out versus another Mercury streamer with I2S connection with the benefits that connection provides re no buffer and separate clock signal?

Do the quality/type of internal processors matter as well or not really when going I2S? Of course there are limitations on whether they can handle certain formats like DSD but for actual sound quality of a particular format is there any difference?

I know - let my ears tell me - but was interested in any technical opinions as well.

calieng

Showing 1 response by calieng

calieng OP
144 posts
 

It seems the Mercury I2S is about as detailed as the Lumin U1 Mini thru its USB into a Denafrips although it seems a little sharper sounding. Have not compared it to the full U1 yet. 

One drawback I did not realize is that it is very limited to formats. I do not see any DSD and for PCM nothing over 192kbs. Maybe I am missing something? I have it setup with the vendors version of RopieeeXL and using Roon. The Lumin on the other hand can do DSD 2.8Mbs upscaled audio.

 

 

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