JPS

Stereolab cables are definitely state of the art!

Hi Blake, We are talking about digital here. With an asynchronous USB to SPDIF converter which isolates and reclocks the datastream, what happens in the USB domain should not matter as long as there is no data loss. This discussion has taken place before, and potential explanations for the audible differences between upstream cables and software have included: -excessive jitter in USB transmitted data beyond the capability of the USB to SPDIF converter to correct -common mode noise via USB affecting the USB to SPDIF converter and even the DAC. In my understanding noise can propagate through signal and ground paths -RFI which can also leak through A USB noise filter which allows to reduce audible differences between USB cables and player software is therefore in my view a very good thing. For instance, with the Aubisque in, while there are still better dynamics/ transients /texture to be heard with a 1m WW silver starlight USB cable than with a 5m Belkin gold, I no longer notice any tonal differences, which is reassuring as the quality of USB digital transmission should not cause tonal shifts. I reckon the tonal differences I detected before were indeed due to noise leaking through. In addition to this, with the filter there is definitely an impression of cleaner sound/blacker background which I associate with noise reduction. This is similar to the effect of power noise filtering. Regards, Jean-Pierre

Dear all, Having listened to my system with the Aubisque USB filter for a few days, I wanted to let you know that I am very happy with its performance. It seems to work as advertised, significantly reducing noise and minimizing differences between USB cables and player software upstream of the Aubisque. Digital seems to have become logical again, which is no small feat. I now need to investigate whether there are still noticeable differences between different sample rates. In any case, I currently have the feeling that a common mode noise USB filter should be included in any USB to SPDIF converter or USB DAC. Jean-Pierre

Hi, I've been using WW silver starlight for severac months now and do not notice the ultrabright character mentioned in some posts. I would assume that it was due either to lack of burn in or too revealing for the test systems. Any other WW silver starlight users around?

I am well aware of that, and also very puzzled about how to upgrade my usb cable (currently using WW silver starlight). Any suggestions?

Hi Oscar, I'm somewhat surprised that you found the Transparent Performance USB Superior to the AQ Diamond, which is very highly regarded. Has anybody else had a similar experience? Jean-Pierre

Dear all, I've been experimenting with CDs upsampled to 24/192 using iZotope SRC. 24/192 definitely sounds better than 24/96 or 24/88.2 (which are themselves better than 16/44.1). I don't know if this can be attributed to iZotope being better than the DAC internal up/oversampling, to the absence of clipping due to the DAC internal up/oversampling, to the need for less filtering within the DAC, to increased jitter immunity or to something else, but my experience is definitely in line with Barry Diament claims that with 176.4/192 everything is significantly more natural.

Hi, I've been experimenting with CD upsampling to 88.2 and 176.4 using r8brain pro linear phase. 176.4 files actually sound better than 88.2 files on the Theta Gen VIII series 3 DAC. Any explanations/recommendations? JPS

Hi Chris, Any update regarding how AQ Diamond and WW Platinum USB cables compared in your system?