The distance between my pc and audio rack means that I can’t rely on a pure USB connection as the distance will be too long. I’m not sure if this rules out i2s, as I’ve heard jitter occurs easily during longer runs. I also can’t use Ethernet, such as a Sonore Rendu or ps audio network bridge, because I’m not streaming or playing audio files. I want a plug and play solution that lets me use my DAC for everything, including just watching online videos or gaming. If there is some way I can use superior connections such as Ethernet or i2s, feel free to educate me.
I’m just looking for optimal sound quality straight from my pc. Any solution, even one that isn’t a converter, is welcome. So far AES/EBU seems best from what I know.
So far, I know of these:
Berkeley Alpha: Classic, but I’m not sure if it’s still best after all of these years.
Totaldac reclocker: very expensive, but I’m not sure if it’s even any good
Singxer su1/Gustard u12: both are very similar and appear to be more “modern” options as they support more formats as well as an i2s output
Empirical off-ramp: this one looks great - like an upgraded Gustard. Not sure it beats the other high end options, though it has more flexibility in terms of outputs for sure.
Mutec mc-3+
Any more ideas?
I’m just looking for optimal sound quality straight from my pc. Any solution, even one that isn’t a converter, is welcome. So far AES/EBU seems best from what I know.
So far, I know of these:
Berkeley Alpha: Classic, but I’m not sure if it’s still best after all of these years.
Totaldac reclocker: very expensive, but I’m not sure if it’s even any good
Singxer su1/Gustard u12: both are very similar and appear to be more “modern” options as they support more formats as well as an i2s output
Empirical off-ramp: this one looks great - like an upgraded Gustard. Not sure it beats the other high end options, though it has more flexibility in terms of outputs for sure.
Mutec mc-3+
Any more ideas?
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