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Macbook vs Squeezebox 3

Why does my Bolder Cable modded SB3 sound sooo much better than my Macbook? They are both going into the same PS Audio Digital Link III DAC. The SB3 via coax, the Macbook via USB. The SB3 is connected to my Mac Mini via ethernet and accessing files that are stored on an external hard drive. The Macbook has the same files stored on it's internal drive.

The SB3 sounds fuller, more detailed, more extension at both ends, just better all the way around. Wondering why my Macbook sounds so bad by comparison? Seems like I should be able to get equal, if not better sound out of the Macbook.
ecruz
foster_9
1,638 posts
 
Very interested to read your responses. I have a Macbook Pro 2012 version and I have tried to optimize the SQ by shutting off all non-essential processes.
mrvco
52 posts
 
I'd try connecting your MacBook to the DLIII using optical and see how it compares... or using the MF V-LINK192 / V-LINKII if your particular "MacBook" model lacks optical out.
ecruz OP
402 posts
 
Not sure whether it has optical out or not. I'll have to check. As for the V-Link, I don't really want to buy any more hardware. Was hoping I could plug the Macbook into the USB input, tweak some settings and have better sound than my modded SB3.

Must say, I was expecting more comments.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
3 possible reasons:

1) USB interface jitter is higher

2) SB3, particularly with mods has lower jitter

3) the playback software you are using with the USB interface is compromised. If you are using for instance iTunes on a PC, this is what you get.

You have only scratched the surface of the most important thing in all digital audio systems, the clock jitter.

This only gets better. Try reclocking the SB3 or upgrading your USB interface with a USB converter.

Try playing back from a PC with Foobar2000 and Jplay plug-in.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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