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worth upgrading BelCanto REFLink?

Hi all,

I am currently using a BelCanto REFLink to convert the USB output from my MacMini (using as a Roon core) into SPDIF format to feed into the coax input on my Mojo Audio Mystique DAC.

I am wondering, based on the BelCanto's age and the rate with which things change in the audio world, if I would achieve an appreciable improvement with the new Matrix Audio X-SPDIF 3 USB Interface or the Audiophilleo1 with PurePower PSU.

Both are much newer (one would imagine technology has advanced) and have a far better clock than the BelCanto, so I am guessing that may improve things, but I would be grateful for anyone's thoughts/experience with these devices and info on what type of improvements, if any, I am likely to experience with this switch?

Thanks so much,
Chris

cporada
rossb
185 posts
 

I still have a Bel Canto Ref Link, as well as the Matrix X SPDIF 2 and have also recently bought the X SPDIF 3 to use the improved IIS ouput. I also have a few others - an old Audiphillio, the SIngxer unit and one or two others.

The Bel Canto is good but the Matrix units are better, and certainly the best I have heard. It is also worthwhile powering the Matrix unit with a good 12v linear PSU which brings another improvement in sound quality.

cporada OP
36 posts
 

Hi rossb,

Thanks so much for your post!

What types of improvements do you note with the Matrix (with LPS) over the Bel Canto?

Thanks,

Chris

rossb
185 posts
 

It's been a while since I have done the comparison, bit generally the Matrix has slightly better resolution and a lower noise floor, resulting in a blacker background, more saturated tonal colours and a greater sense of speed and dynamics. Of course, these differences are all marginal, but they are noticeable.

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