Do I really Need a Digital to Digital Converter?


Over the last few years I have continued to upgrade my digital front end and currently use an Auralic G2 (with upgraded power supply) and a Musician Pegasus R2R DAC. Some of the (mostly Asian) DAC manufacturers also make digital to digital converters (like the Denefrips Iris and Hermes).

So my questions are, if what these DDCs do so important, why aren’t they built into into DACs or Streamers in the first place. Are they only incorporated in higher end digital gear but not gear at the level I am using?. What will adding one of these bring to the table or should I just upgrade my DAC or Streamer to get the same result? Do I really need another piece of gear and another set of cables to clutter up my rack?

Appreciate input from anyone who as direct experience with these DDCs in their audio journey.

128x128alvinnir2

Same. I got a DDC to connect my streamer to my DAC I2S. There was a noticeable improvement in sound quality. In the end, I got rid of it all. I couldn’t get past the idea that I shouldn’t need one more device in the chain along with its own LPS and digital cable to get decent SQ.

it’s all part of the journey though, It was a learning experience and I don’t regret it.

 

Same. I got a DDC to connect my streamer to my DAC I2S. There was a noticeable improvement in sound quality. In the end, I got rid of it all. I couldn’t get past the idea that I shouldn’t need one more device in the chain along with its own LPS and digital cable to get decent SQ.

@rhg3 What did you have for a DAC and DDC, and what did you change to?  Just curious. 

Manufacturers love to "develop" components that aren't needed and don't do anything but make them more money. Objectively prove me wrong.

@mrskeptic 

No disagreement with your statement above but let’s not forget “beauty is in the eye (or ear) of the beholder”

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