Hifi Addict

For the ultimate SQ, IMO there is no substitution for a properly configured Windows Server 2012 machine. Unfortunately the setup isn't cheap and takes a little research to get it right. Of course your audio system has to be at a level to justify the cost and realize the gains. I have used optimized 2012, 2014 Macs and BeagleBones systems and although they are all good options, the properly setup Windows Server system cannot be beat. Not only have I found the harshness of digital to disappear, which is why I started on this journey, but I have also realized an incredible 3 dimensional sound stage where I can pinpoint the location of each performer far beyond my original expectations.

I agree whole heartedly with Richard12. There is a significant difference upgrading to a linear power supply and there is absolutely no need, imo, to pay double for the overpriced competitors' offerings. Larry knows what he is doing and, unlike many others he is reasonable in his pricing and excellent in customer service.

Chris and Alain, I respect your comments and will read more of Alex and John's posts before I reach any conclusions.

Ted, point taken. Unlike your self confessed acid laden review (lol) of an excellent dac, here we're talking about revelatory improvements from an internal SSD being powered by a linear power supply directly instead of an SSD powered by a linear power supply not separately. You may also note that the OP in a separate thread gave a more than positive review of the JS-2 which adds to the incredulity of the opinion. I have followed this forum for many years and have never felt compelled to post until now. I am looking to buy a linear power supply and the JS-2 was on my short list. Based on my experience it is impossible that driving an SSD directly from the same linear power supply as opposed to through the computer's motherboard can result in such dramatic improvements. As you know it is almost impossible to audition everything before we buy. We, therefore, must rely on the opinions of other users and try to read through the lines when deciding what to buy. When I read such unrealistic claims I begin to suspect an agenda and as a result I lose respect for the product. As a result I have likely eliminated the JS-2 even though it may be a great product.

My intent was not to insult or offend the OP, nevermind be "rude". Computer Audiophile is one of the few truly valuable computer audio internet resources available. So many forums offer a ton of misleading or bad advice. I find, for the most part, that the members here try to avoid this and truly try to help each other with realistic opinions and helpful tips. Sometimes some members either unintentionally or with an agenda make invalid, exaggerated or even false claims. I am not suggesting the OP is in this group. Perhaps giving concrete examples of what we hear that leads us to our conclusions would be helpful instead of statements like using a particular linear power supply on an SSD results in

What does that have anything to do with anything.

The Zies is a great product but does not match the ultimate sound quality of a properly setup PC. You have to weigh the hassles of properly setting up the PC vs. the amazing convenience of the Hap. You also have to be sure you know what your source will be as I don't believe you can stream from a NAS or the internet (although I may be wrong in this regard). You may also want to check out the Auralic Aries which is another great product for convenience but you will need a Dec to use with it which will increase the overall cost.

AudioSeduction, I don't know if you work for Uptone Audio or if you are an extremely excited personality but please consider toning down you opinions as they are highly unbelievable. I appreciate that they are opinions but many of us rely on this site for honest assessments as it is often difficult if not impossible to audition gear before we buy it. I am sure you have realized improvements from the JS-2 but no product is magical enough to result in the dramatic improvements you claim. I don't think you are doing Superdad any favours with these over the top reviews. Thank you in advance. Steve