Recent content by thekenc

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    Question CD Players

    Understood on the buffering and clock folks. Here is what I observed when I added a new DAC into the loop: * simply using the new DAC appeared to improve the audio quality of the CD player, which was expected. * then I played withe DPLL setting on it, and took that configuration value down to...
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    Question CD Players

    Another good question. I don't know the answer to that. What I can say is that there have been innovations in audio technology where more accurate -- improved -- master clocks are being used with great results. The Audiolab CD player uses, and highlights, the use of an accurate master clock...
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    Question CD Players

    Yes. Sorry for the confusion. Here is the clearest explanation I can give with respect to CD players, master clocks, data transport of the information to the DAC, and the conversion of the digital signal to analog: When a CD player transports the data through the digital output -- either...
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    Question CD Players

    My only addition here, minimal though it is, is that the Audio lab CD player has its own master clock. In addition to innovations in DAC technology, there are also advances in 'de-jitter' which pertain to the use of high quality master clocks. Based on that I'd support the choice of the...
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    DAC and Headphone suggestions for son's PC

    You might also look at schiit DACs or Topping. Getting a listen is most important. I am also a fan of Sennheiser headphones and ear buds but don't have any specific models to suggest. My headphones are gaming headphones that I also use for work.
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    Question First time DAC buyer

    Yes, sorry. Still learning how to use the editor. It was a copy/paste. :) I fixed it.
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    Question First time DAC buyer

    Hey Lee, I did some more digging around on DACs, because that's what I've been doing for the past several months, and wanted to share some more observations. Sweetwater sells the Motu M2, which I'm sure that you're aware of. They are a great resource to use for researching equipment, and may...
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    Question First time DAC buyer

    Hello Lee! I too have recently become aware of the benefits derived from purchasing a separate DAC. I see that your user scenarios relate to streaming from a PC, and that your goals are to beef up your headphone and powered speakers. The main scenario I sought to improve was quite different...
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    Question Advice for speakers

    I too am dabbling with a potential speaker purchase in the future, and really want to get a listen to the JBL HDI-1600's. They're in your price range and I've found JBL to be fantastic, but I have an older generation of that bookshelf style speaker. I'm curious to hear what you come up with...