blessingx

"* Note: DSD-IFF and DSF formats are converted to PCM before playback. Playback of high-resolution files places high demands on CPU and battery resources. For optimal playback results, Onkyo recommends closing other applications and placing your device on Airplane Mode."

Here are BAAS related photos from the CA Audio show: <br /> http://baasnotes.com/blog/2011/07/17/pictures-from-the-2011-california-audio-show/<br /> <br /> NickG, there's a Neko Audio loaner program going on at the moment (currently in my custody). You may want to add your name if you're curious.

Surprised at the difference from 'headphone' meets (mostly in logistics, branding). Rooms overall small, so sweet spots tend to be also (thus difficult to hear best), but highlights on either end were a Napa Acoustic/Mistral $600 NA-208A amp/NA-208S speaker mini system and the 'big sound' Sony SS-AR1s (powered by Pass Labs mono-blocks). Best overall sound of the show was previously mentioned Marutani Consulting Magico/Constellation setup. I actually almost automatically started clapping at the end of a song like there was a band on stage. Also a little insight into Blue Coast recording techniques and DSD. Suspect Reference Recordings presentations would have been interesting also, but missed those.

Thanks.

Evaluating Amarra Mini 2.2 and when in playlist mode outside of iTunes I can't for the life of me find where I can see tracks in the playlist. I can load files, clear and play, but nothing to see or edit list. I know the UI leaves a lot to be desired, but assume I'm missing something. Any guidance is appreciated.

Another thing to consider is OS X having no native 88.2 optical output. If you have any 88.2 HDtracks/ripped DVD-As or 176.4 HRx files, it is problematic to bump to 96 or down all the way to redbook-like 44.1. V-link would require dividing the 176.4 sample rate in half, but that's still a better solution than your optical options. Just ordered one myself partially because of the above and partially in anticipation of a new MBA (which unfortunately has no mini-toslink).

For those interested, the XDA-1 is back on sale for $299. http://www.emotiva.com

For Classic DADs (as opposed to Classic HDADs which have a DVD-A layer/side) I've had to use a PC and DVD Audio Extractor. Maybe an OS X solution out there, but I've haven't found a good option for ripping DVD-As on the Mac either so using a work PC for them and might as well for these too. If you're not concerned getting the 24-bit files off, Audio Hijack Pro could probably do the trick.

If Apple TV is like Airport Express the limitation is 16/48, not 16/44.1. I use a SB Touch for 24-bit files, but with Airplay and MOG, gotta say my Airport Express (and maybe soon Apple TV) is getting a ton of use. djiNN, I think all modifications (volume equalization, EQ, etc.) are off.

I've recently picked up a few Reference Recordings HRxs, but at least for the near future, due to the DACs I own, I will not be able to play them back at their native kHz. Anyone know how to convert to 88.2 in OS X? Max is usually the jack of all trades, but I don't see a kHz setting and I assume the 24 bit preference will default to native. I haven't yet received the discs (so can't test), but wanted to ask so I'd be set when they arrive. Thanks in advance for any help.

Thanks for the review. Aside from price/performance and extension issues, can you tell us a bit more about the signature and overall sound quality?<br />

There's a little sub-community of vintage Parasound users. After hearing the DA/C 1500, I knew I needed the single-ended version. Have now bought two at $200 a pop which you wouldn't get a mile to new. Of course there are sampling rate limitations, but there are killer deals if you go best of the 90s. Much more organic sound than some of the biggies currently (thinking of you DAC1).

The Duet is an excellent DAC, and a decent head amp, but its specialty is definitely the former. If fact I haven't heard a new DAC solution sound better under 1K and I prefer the Duet to several at that price point (notable the Lavry DA10). That said, if you're looking for a combo DAC/amp one box solution and you're using phones that require significant power (AKG, Sennheiser, etc.), there are other options with a better amp section. For the same price I'd point to the Headamp Pico.

Thanks for the list. I was unaware of the B&W Society of Sound Music Club and have since signed up. So far so good with ALAC or FLAC downloads. Like their emerging artist focus.

Interesting setup. I'd be curious how it stands up to what many seem to think is a leading $1K bang-for-buck solution of:<br /> <br /> Apple or PowerMax sold refurbished Mac mini ($500)<br /> Apogee Duet ($500)<br /> <br /> Course both setups require some sort of display. <br /> <br /> May be a fun battle?