iPod to a Benchmark Media DAC-1 D/A

MSB has a docking station for iPod that outputs S/PDIF. Not as good as I2S IMO, but digital anyway. I believe it's around $2K.

I have the msb ipod /ilink and feel its great.Also comes with ir trans. So sit back and dial up your choice and wirelessly enjoy lossless music.
Bob

Why is direct I2S connection better than s/pdif?

The msb ipod/ilink doesn't come with a DAC. So for the $2K, you could get a new apple laptop with iTunes that would serve the same function. I would use a Benchmark DAC/USB that has a direct I2S connection. The problem with the msb ipod/ilink is that it cannot be charged while in your lap with the plug-in RF remote transmitter and if plugged into the base station, it cannot sit on your lap. The computer on the other hand can be used for other tasks when not listening to music, can stay on the wall outlet, so no need to charge and if operated with a remote contro,l can be a music server from your listening chair.

I just need to find a remote control device for the MacBook to allow use of the iTunes interface from a distance.

I have the MSB docking station and it works...far better than using the existing analogue output by a HUGE mile. I still think not as good as CDs but that;s in comparison to my EMM labs gear. The benefit of the MSB dock vs PC.notbook solution despite it being quite pricey ...sound quality wise I have no idea as I do not have the experience of the latter. However its convenient in that its portable: with your benchmark DAC...just add some quality headphones and you can use it in various rooms to your liking. Also you can use the IPOD to send data wirelessly to the DOC and use the IPOD as a remote control: and for IPOD users we all love the user interface.

Dbk wrote:
"Why is direct I2S connection better than s/pdif?"

Because the S/PDIF encoding and decoding adds more jitter. Using I2S, you can avoid encoding the clock and data into a single signal.

The optimum solution is to locate the master clock at the D/A chip and then send this clock back to the source, which will be a "slave". This achieves the lowest jitter. I have this solution for Squeezebox, and soon Sonos and Olive.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio