24bits/96kHz DAC question

[eliotn]

Hi all,

I'm thinking of buying TC-7520 DAC with intention of improving my sound quality even more. Currently I'm using Windows PC with SPDIF out connected to CA540R via coaxial. Most of the files are mp3 320kbits.

The first question is whether the sound will improve at all ? I can not see any information what kind of DAC CA540R is using ?

The second question is about 24bits/96kHz support in 7520 DAC. In what scenario is this actually used? My understanding is that most of FLAC files/mp3 are in 16bits/44.1kHz so how can someone use 24bits mode?

Thanks

Jake

 

[Andrew Everard]

Well, if you have a computer capable of outputting 24/96, or indeed 24/192, you could play higher-resolution audio files, such as those available from outlets such as The Naim Label, Linn Records and HD Tracks, through the DAC.

Unfortunately, though, such audio is best output over a higher-capacity digital link, such as Firewire, into a suitable DAC.

As it is, some DACs use 24/96 or higher conversion because they upsample standard 16/44.1 stuff before conversion, thus reducing digital noise, and others use these converters simply because most audio DAC chips these days are at least 24/96 capable, due to the demands of DVD and Blu-ray.

It's a bit like the reason why some CD players these days use either computer drives or DVD-based mechanisms...

 

[Anonymous]

Yeah 24 bits aren't readily available to be honest and typically it will be 16 bit but the best thing to do in order to judge the dac is request a loan unit from Stanley that way you can always return it if you aren't happy.