Integrated DAC vs separate DAC

[adamrobertshaw]

I have completely updated the analogue sections of my Cyrus system by adding outboard PSX-R so I'm happy that is working as well as it can withoutngoing down the balanced route

Also i'm happy with the Cyrus sources.

What I would like here is some informed advice on the DAC sections. Currently I have a QX enabled amplifier, so effectively the DAC section is integrated close to the pre-power. I've read that this is preferable to having the DAC separate and connected via RCA for example.

Does everyone agree with this?

I have been considering updating the DAC to something like the Chord Qute HD or maybe even the DAC X signature. Would I gain in cleaner and more precise data conversion but potentially lose out in a longer signal path to the pre-power section?

I'll welcome any input to this query

 

[Ragworm]

Isn't the XpdQx Cyrus' top of the range DAC? I very much doubt the Chord would improve on it. It might have a different presentation but I doubt it would actually be better. Is there a problem that you're trying to fix?

 

[adamrobertshaw]

My question was specific to understanding benefits of integrated DAC / pre-amp (such as in the 8xpdQX) vs non integrated DAC and pre-amp

The DAC X or (DAC XP integrated with a pre-amp) are the top of the range as they are 32 bit dual mono DACs.

Cyrus never seem to let on what components are being used though.

The QX is a decent DAC card on Coax inputs ... but to my reckoning not so good on USB.

I have the ESS Sabre DAC in two guises both of which knock the spots off the QX card on USB performance. I would therefore never put a computer within my Cyrus based hi-fi system

My hi-fi dealer rates Chord Electronics as the best on D to A conversion. Chord point to their network players that have high quality DACs on board.

It's just likely the Cyrus QX card needs an update as competition have moved on a touch recently.

 

[adamrobertshaw]

It seems the Audirvana Plus plug in on my Mac has improved the music on the USB input of the Cyrus QX DAC card, which was poor direct from I-Tunes without Audirvana.

The QX card can only process 16/44.1 or 16/48 resolution. Not a problem for me at present.

But I have a feeling my QX card is old spec. I know modern QX DAC cards have 24 bit and 192khz upsampling ability.

So at some point I'll need to upgrade the DAC if I go high res.

Since I first posted the original query I have read more reviews advising positive benefits of having an integrated DAC / pre-amp section.

Unfortunately I have no means of upgrading my 8XPD QX (now called 8QX DAC) through Cyrus and retaining a type B USB input.

Still wondering if anyone else out there has had similar issues with Cyrus or can suggest how they upgraded to a new high res DAC?