I purchased a JCAT and Mojo Audio voltage regulator. I can say that the voltage regulator runs exceptionally cool, and after having it on for some time it is only mildly warm to the touch... .
While the difference with these two devices is noticeable (fuller, more dynamic and detailed sound), I think it is highly system dependent. Compared to the new asus motherboard USB running off a Seasonic fanless titanium 600w power supply, with a relatively revealing front end (Lampizator Amber 3->Pass XA25-> Accuton Cell based speakers), I'd say its a somewhat worthwhile but very expensive difference to pay for. Compared to the optical out of my TV, or the usb of a 10 year old Lenovo laptop, the difference is staggering and equals that of a major component change and is a relative bargain. In other words, having heard the difference in my system I won't be going back to the motherboard USB... but if I had known in advance, I might have decided to address other weaknesses first.
While the difference with these two devices is noticeable (fuller, more dynamic and detailed sound), I think it is highly system dependent. Compared to the new asus motherboard USB running off a Seasonic fanless titanium 600w power supply, with a relatively revealing front end (Lampizator Amber 3->Pass XA25-> Accuton Cell based speakers), I'd say its a somewhat worthwhile but very expensive difference to pay for. Compared to the optical out of my TV, or the usb of a 10 year old Lenovo laptop, the difference is staggering and equals that of a major component change and is a relative bargain. In other words, having heard the difference in my system I won't be going back to the motherboard USB... but if I had known in advance, I might have decided to address other weaknesses first.