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Celadus

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  1. In case you're interested it's actually possible and easy to stream DSD natively using 8player app with a DoPE (DSD over PCM Ethernet) capable server like JRiver MC19 or maybe even the newer wireless streaming portable devices... I've updated infos in my thread.
  2. Just in case someone is interested even in wi-fi stream native DSD here the updated guide.... iPad iPhone with 24bit or DSD files / high storage capacity / portability : bit-perfect wi-fi streaming. Which configuration works without downsampling? Since iOS 7 both iPad and iPhone are now able to receive bit-perfect wi-fi stream up to 24/192Khz PCM or DSD to feed a compatible USB DAC with a CCK or the newer LtUSBCA. Older iOS make the iPad the only iDevice capable to use USB OUT to feed a USB DAC. So I still keep the old guide here for those who own an old iPad 1 with iOS 5. Even DSD to iOS is now possible via wi-fi, at the end I'll show how to do it. My goal for 24 bit or DSD bit-perfect portable setup: iPad or iPhone with no jailbreak and no DIY hardware mods Server/player easy to setup and start with at least cover arts and auto play next (gapless not indispensable) High storage capacity (500GB+) Internet connection or router not required to work CCK or LtUSBCA connected to USB DAC or dedicated DAC/Amp All battery powered iPad has limited storage capacity, which must be addressed for those big 24 bit files. Apps which play local stored files (stock player or Flac Player for usopported format) are less useful and if you add storage to the dock out you can't output digital files to an external DAC. ALWAYS REMEMBER: Any point in the chain could downsample data: HW, server software, settings, player, iOS version and iDevice used all do matter. For portability of some sort, before iOS 7 the iPad was the only iDevice (without jailbreak) confirmed working without downsampling 24 bit / 96 Khz files in any point in the chain and only under specific configurations that I'll recap here: 1) Camera Connection Kit (older iPads) or the newer Lighting to USB Camera Adapter. 2) 24 bit USB DACs that don't require a driver to work at 1.1 USB specs and must provide power via USB PORT. 3) USB Hubs battery powered, powered with portable USB battery chargers or iPad powered (20mA MAX), if the USB DAC works driverless but do not provide power via USB port. 4) Specific server/iPad player combos. For portability everywhere we need a portable battery powered high storage wi-fi UPnP/DLNA server (500GB+) with bundled software player (or able to use a third-party app) capable to stream 24 bit-perfect data. For portability at home there are more choices, that I'll recap later. Points 1), 2), 3) are potentially addressable with a dedicated DAC for iPad similar to: iFi Nano iDSD (DAC/Amp combo) tested and confirmed with DSD too!!! (SEE INFOS AT THE BOTTOM) Cypher Labs AlgoRhythm Solo (DAC only) officially supports 24 bit for iPad only (see page 7 of the FAQ not the manual), but needs to be confirmed by users, testing its own digital coax out to an external dac able to display bit/samples effectively received. CEntrance HiFi-M8 (DAC/Amp combo) officially supports up to 192Khz, but I think only 96Khz for iPad, without digital out can't be tested with an external DAC able to display bit/freq. Sony PHA-1 (DAC/Amp combo) officially supports up to 24/96, but without digital out can't be tested with an external DAC able to display bit/freq. There are a lot of other dedicated DACs for iDevices, but they're limited at 16 bit / 44.1 KHz. Point 1): without a dedicated iPad DAC you need a CCK or the newer LtUSBCA to use USB digital audio out from iPad. For Point 2) be careful that not any powered USB DAC/Amp works, since we have two problems to solve, it needs to: a) work driverless at USB 1.1 specs (= up to 24bit/96Khz). b) the USB PORT of the DAC must provide power, IF NOT, a USB HUB is always needed (see Point 3). Since latest iOS iPad always checks for power req of the device asking data (USB DAC) indipendently if it's powered or not. Example 1: the M2Tech Young DAC is a powered desktop USB DAC, but it works only with drivers, so it won't work with iPad/CCK USB out. Example 2: the iBasso D7 portable USB DAC/Amp isn't powered and iPad is unable to power it, but it works driverless at USB 1.1 specs and adding a USB charger and USB Hub it works. Example 3: the Antelope Zodiac is a powered desktop DAC, it will works up to 384Khz with drivers, but also up to 96Khz driverless and it has a powered USB port, so it'll works without the need for a USB Hub. Note: some USB DACs that works are unable to process any sample rates up to their max supported (96 max but no 88.2 or 192 max but no 176.4 Khz support), it depends on the USB chip and number of clocks installed. I'll list here any portable battery powered 24 bit USB DAC/Amp (none so far) or unpowered but working (see point 3 for details) up to at least 96 Khz and which are not dedicated to iDevice only: Meridian Explorer up to 192Khz + point 3). iBasso D7 up to 192Khz but not 176.4Khz + point 3). CEntrance DacPort up to 96 Khz + point 3). Audioquest Dragonfly up to 96 Khz, reported working without point 3) but still to be confirmed with latest iOS firmware. Schiit Modi up to 96 Khz, reported working without point 3) but still to be confirmed with latest iOS firmware. HRT microStreamer up to 96 Khz, reported working without point 3) but still to be confirmed with latest iOS firmware. For Point 3), if the USB port of the DAC doesn't provide power for the attached device (so to pass iPad power check), we need a USB Hub battery powered, powered by USB battery chargers or directly powered from iPad/CCK up to 20mA MAX (the last one is now avaiable and the best solution). USB Hubs by definition pass data and power via each USB port. Most USB chargers are not Hubs, data pins are not connected so they provide only power; a few are able to pass data exclusively via USB OUT (not via mini USB IN used to recharge) so at least two USB OUT are needed (1x iPad, 1x USB DAC) making them real Hubs. The old solution to use a USB Y cable (one of the three ends is power only) to provide power to the USB DAC doesn't work anymore, with the latest iOS, iPad will check power requirements of the device asking data (USB DAC). Only a USB Hubs in the middle do the trick and activate iPad USB digital out: if the USB Hub is powered any USB port will provide power; if the USB Hub is unpowered it must work at 20mA MAX to be powered directly from iPad (like Unitek USB Hub cable). I'll update the list here of USB Hubs battery powered (or USB chargers with at least two USB OUT) or directly powered from iPad/CCK up to 20mA MAX which are the most interesting: Unitek USB cable with Hub: powered directly from iPad/CCK USB out, is avaiable with different connectors to USB DACs (USB female, male mini USB and male micro USB) the male USB-A connector must be plugged to iPad/CCK. Thanks to whodiini for suggesting this USB cable + Hub. The US eBay link is USB 2 0 90 Degree Angled Male to 2 Female Extension Data Hub Rainbow Color Cable | eBay. If you are in eBay Italy just search "prolunga USB HUB" and you'll find plenty. Also check seeteeyou post #85 at page 6 in this thread for additional links to various types. On Lite H420B: 4 rechargeable batteries that you can change/add at will (NOT WORKING RELIABLY). D-Tech solar/battery powerd USB Hub (4 USB, 1 mini USB): solar power not capable to feed USB DAC/Amp, battery last 1 hour max. Tekkeon MP1860A (2 USB OUT, 1 mini USB IN) USB charger + data pass (still to be confirmed). For Point 4) and portability everywhere we need a portable battery powered high storage wi-fi UPnP/DLNA NAS (500GB+) with bundled server software and player (or able to use a third-party app) capable to stream 24 bit-perfect data. Seagate GoFlex Satellite (now bettered by newest Seagate Wireless Plus 1TB) works with bundled software, it does not transcode/convert files and is able to stream any files the device supports or files supported by third-party apps like 8player. It has some DLNA capability (but not fully certified). Buffalo MiniStation Air (500 GB) not yet released and incomplete infos, will come with its iOS dedicated app. Patriot Gauntled Node (hard disk not included, you can choose storage capacity), is confirmed not working bit-perfect with bundled software (zzffnn reported working with SAMBA streaming which, even if bit-perfect possible, is rouled out=long start up time, too long loading each file, no cover art, no background play, no browsing while play,...). I'll update the list here: Seagate Wireless Plus (1TB) Seagate GoFlex Satellite (500GB, latest FW can use internet while streaming) discontinued. For Point 4) and portability at home we have more choices since there are lots of server software avaiable built-in a NAS or a computer system. My favourites are: a) Logitech Media Server + iPeng Player (audio only. In-app purchase needed, no need to have a Logitech device). b) Twonky Media Server or any similar DLNA/UPnP server + 8player. c) iTunes Home Sharing + stock player (audio/video but only for officially supported iPad formats). All setups are tested using external DAC able to display bit/freq received and which does not resample incoming data. iTHS/stock iPad player isn't a good solution: limited formats support and a really bad interface. For music only, LMS/iPeng is the best configs right now: great sound quality, FLAC support (no need to convert files neither in the server), cover arts in any directory, better browser organization and faster interface,... Sound quality differences are not strange since any software player do something in a different way (JRiver, Foobar, WMP, iTunes, JPlay,...): bits are not just bits in digital audio, "time" matter a lot. BUT iPeng officially will never support UPnP/DLNA and LMS is not installed in any portable battery powered wi-fi server. The solution for UPnP/DLNA servers streaming 24 bit-perfect data with support for all audio/video formats is to use 8player. Don't bother with any other app since until now most won't work bit-perfect, have bad file support and miss fundamental features (background play, play while browsing library, play on the fly, auto play next, cover arts,...). You can use 8player with the Seagate GoFlex Satellite (UPnP/DLNA wi-fi battery powered server) for audio/video portability everywhere. But I'm still unsure if FLACs are bit-perfect, since the displays stick with last ALAC played regardles FLACs bit/freq played. A solution at home is to instruct the server to transcode FLACs to WAV and you've a bit-perfect setup without converting FLAC files. Remember, most UPnP/DLNA iPad players won't work at 24 bit-perfect audio data: PlugPlayer or AceMusic players for example always downsample regardless of wi-fi type, streaming server settings and configs used. I'll update the list here for any UPnP/DLNA iPad player working 24 bit-perfect and have most fundamental features: 8player (even if not transcoded in server, FLACs play but still unsure if bit-perfect) Other iDevices (without jailbreak) are generally limited to a max official support of 24 bit / 48 Khz, which could be fine, but without a CCK, you need a desktop digital dock which is not portable neither at home or a dedicated iDevice DAC/Amp. iTHS/stock Apple player is limited to 16 bit for iPhone/iPod touch. LMS/iPeng officially support 24/48 for iPhone/iPod Touch, but needs to be confirmed. Cypher Labs AR Solo supports 24 bit for iPad only, but could works, a direct test needed from its digital coax out. Sony HPA-1 supports up to 24/96 but it's uncertain if it's for iPad only and without a digital out it's impossible to check. Fostex HP-P1 was potentially a good choice (32 bit DAC/Amp combo) but it's limited at 16/48 and iPad not even supported (even if reported working at 16 bit). iPod Classic 160GB (without wi-fi and third-party apps) works with 24 bit / 48 Khz files only in the sense that it'll be able to play them but it will always downsample to 16 bit before reaching the DAC section. VentureCraft Go-DAP 4.0 will always downsample to 48Khz (thanks to AnakChan for reporting). I'll update any possible portable 24 bit solution for other iDevices here: (none confirmed) BIT-PERFECT DSD STREAMING TO iOS (using a DoPE server) With a compatible USB DSD DAC (like iFi Nano iDSD) you can stream DSD natively (bit-perfect) to iOS without converting to PCM (which is not the purer or best performance path to follow). A very important thing for wi-fi streaming is that if you've set the server to convert on-the-fly DSD to 24bit PCM, you can't stream big DSD files (over 10 min) to iOS, with DSF files you can and with better sound! Follow these instructions to stream DSD to iPad natively using JRiver MC 19 server (DoPE=DSD over PCM Ethernet) and 8player: In JRiver MC19 go to TOOLS>OPTIONS>MEDIA NETWORK>ADD OR CONFIGURE DLNA SERVERS... >ADVANCED check "Bitstream DSD (requires DoPE compliant renderer)" In iOS, with the CCK or LtUSBA connected to the USB DAC (iDSD), start 8player seek JRMC19 library and play DSD bit-perfectly! (NOTE= since JRiver server sends native DSD this way, you can't stream to a PCM renderer a DSD file anymore). This trick should work with any DoPE server, just check for the specific stream setting. Since wi-fi streaming DSD to iPad it's possible using a DoPE server let's seek a wireless storage portable server that can do it.
  3. To play a file or to play it bit-perfect makes a lot of difference. Any point in the chain could downsample audio data to 16/44: wi-fi hardware (most Apple products downsample, not sure AE), server software, settings, player and iDevice used all do matter. If you use only Apple products you're not able to stream a lot of unsopported file types, you need third-party software or hardware to do it. In specific configs iPad can do 24/96, iPhone/iPad Touch 24/48 max, iPod Classic 16/48 max. I've a lot of updates to my OT, so I recap everything: For portability of some sort, until now the iPad is the only iDevice (without jailbreak) confirmed working without downsampling 24 bit / 96 Khz files in any point in the chain and only under specific configurations that I'll recap here: 1) Camera Connection Kit. 2) 24 bit USB DACs with powered USB port (or consume less than 20mV) and don't require a driver to work at 1.1 USB specs. 3) USB Hubs battery powered or powered with USB chargers which pass data too (most USB chargers ports are power only) if the USB DAC is not powered internally but able to do point 2). 4) Specific server/player combos: a) Logitech Media Server + iPeng Player (audio only. In-app purchase needed, no need to have a Logitech device). b) UPnP/DLNA server + 8player for iPad (audio/video and for officially unsupported formats, but FLACs still unsure if it's bit-perfect). c) iTunes Home Sharing + stock player (audio/video but only for officially supported iPad formats). All setups are tested using external DAC able to display bit/freq received and which does not resample incoming data. iTHS/stock iPad player isn't a good solution: limited formats supported and a really bad interface. For music only, LMS/iPeng is the best configs right now: great sound quality, FLAC support (no need to convert files neither in the server), cover arts in any directory, better browser organization and faster interface,... Sound quality differences are not strange since any software player do something in a different way (JRiver, Foobar, WMP, iTunes, JPlay,...): bits are not just bits in digital audio, "time" matter a lot. iPeng officially will never support UPnP/DLNA and LMS is not installed in any portable battery powered wi-fi server, so not a portable everywhere solution. The solution for UPnP/DLNA servers streaming 24 bit-perfect data with support for all audio/video formats is to use 8player. Don't bother with any other app since until now most won't work bit-perfect, have bad file support and miss fundamental features (background play, play while browsing library, play on the fly, auto play next, cover arts,...). You can use 8player with the Seagate GoFlex Satellite (500GB, UPnP/DLNA wi-fi battery powered server) for audio/video portability everywhere. But I'm still unsure if FLACs are bit-perfect, since the displays stick with last ALAC played regardles FLACs bit/freq played. A solution at home is to instruct the server to transcode FLACs to WAV and you've a bit-perfect setup without converting FLAC files. Remember, most UPnP/DLNA iPad players won't work at 24 bit-perfect audio data: PlugPlayer or AceMusic players for example and UPnP/DLNA servers (like JRiver, Asset and Foobar) always downsample regardless of wi-fi type, streaming server settings and configs used. I'll update the list here for any UPnP/DLNA iPad player working 24 bit-perfect and have most fundamental features: 8player (even if not transcoded in server, FLACs play but still unsure if bit-perfect) For portability everywhere we need a portable battery powered high storage wi-fi UPnP/DLNA NAS (500GB+) with bundled server software and player (or able to use a third-party app) capable to stream 24 bit-perfect data. Seagate GoFlex Satellite works with bundled software, it does not transcode/convert files and is able to stream any files the device supports or files supported by third-party apps like 8player. It has some DLNA capability (but not fully certified). Buffalo MiniStation Air (500 GB) not yet released and incomplete infos, will come with its iOS dedicated app. Patriot Gauntled Node (hard disk not included, you can choose storage capacity), is confirmed not working bit-perfect with bundled software (zzffnn reported working with SAMBA streaming which, even if bit-perfect possible, is rouled out=long start up time, too long loading each file, no cover art, no background play, no browsing while play,...). I'll update the list here: Seagate GoFlex Satellite (500GB, latest FW can use internet while streaming) Points 1), 2), 3) are potentially addressable with single digital devices similar to: Cypher Labs AR Solo (DAC only) officially supports 24 bit for iPad only (see page 7 of the FAQ not the manual), but needs to be confirmed by users, testing its own digital coax out to an external dac able to display bit/samples effectively received. Sony PHA-1 (DAC/Amp combo) officially supports up to 24/96, but without digital out can't be tested with which iDevice. Do you have any other suggestion for 24 bit capable device? Given point 2) not any powered USB DAC/Amp work, and some working are unable to process any sample rates up to their max supported (96 max but no 88.2 support). It depends also on the USB chip and number of clocks installed. I'll list here any portable battery powered 24 bit USB DAC/Amp or unpowered but working (see point 3 for details) up to at least 96 Khz and which are not dedicated to iDevice only: iBasso D7 up to 192Khz + point 3). CEntrance DacPort up to 96 Khz + point 3). Audioquest Dragonfly up to 96 Khz + point 3) (needs more reports to be sure). For Point 3) if the USB Hub is not battery powered, a sure approach is to use a battery powered USB charger able to pass data too (eventually an Y split USB cable able to pass power + data in all 3 directions or adapters are needed), be careful most charger's USB ports are power only and most USB Y cables are power only at one end. I'll update the list hereof USB chargers able to pass data + power: D-Tech solar/battery powerd USB Hub (4 USB, 1 mini USB): solar power not capable to feed USB DAC/Amp, battery last 1,5 hours max. Tekkeon MP1860A (2 USB, 1 mini USB) USB charger + data pass. Tekkeon MP1820 (1 USB,1 mini USB) USB charger + data pass (should works but not confirmed) Tekkeon MP1550 or 1580 (1 USB,1 mini USB) USB charger + data pass: it uses 4x AA batteries and is able to recharge rechargeable batteries. Other iDevices (without jailbreak) are generally limited to a max official support of 24 bit / 48 Khz, which could be fine, but without a CCK, you need a desktop digital dock which is not portable neither at home or a dedicated iDevice DAC/Amp. iTHS/stock Apple player is limited to 16 bit for iPhone/iPod touch. LMS/iPeng officially support 24/48 for iPhone/iPod Touch, but needs to be confirmed. Cypher Labs AR Solo supports 24 bit for iPad only, but could works, a direct test needed from its digital coax out. Sony HPA-1 supports up to 24/96 but it's uncertain if it's for iPad only and without a digital out it's impossible to check. Fostex HP-P1 was potentially a good choice (32 bit DAC/Amp combo) but it's limited at 16/48 and iPad not even supported (even if reported working at 16 bit). iPod Classic 160GB (without wi-fi and third-party apps) works with 24 bit / 48 Khz files only in the sense that it'll be able to play them but it will always downsample to 16 bit before reaching the DAC section. VentureCraft Go-DAP 4.0 will always downsample to 48Khz (thanks to AnakChan for reporting). I'll update any possible portable 24 bit solution for other iDevices here: (none confirmed)
  4. For 24 bit-perfect wi-fi streaming, any point of the chain could downsample data: wi-fi hardware, server software, device or player used. Naim has a lot of wi-fi streamers 24/192 at any price points, I prefer them over Linn (only wired), and they could be upgraded with external PSUs. The cheaper way is to use iPad + Camera Connection Kit + USB DAC (or USB/spdif converter) + server software + dedicated app, but watch out, most server settings and app players downsample to 16/44 all or some format file types. Above config is for portability too, look here: http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f22-networking-networked-audio-and-streaming/24-bit-perfect-streaming-ipad-high-storage-capacity-portability-which-configuration-works-13252/
  5. My River is a dedicated iDevice app for JRMC, but it'll downsample 24 bit data to 16/44. If you're looking a 24 bit-perfect and portable setup it's more complicated, but a few infos how to start here: http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f22-networking-networked-audio-and-streaming/24-bit-perfect-streaming-ipad-high-storage-capacity-portability-which-configuration-works-13252/
  6. LOL! I like listening late at night when babies and wife sleep, in the car I pump up the volume and high res do matter!
  7. Do you think it's better to repeat the whole thread with major updates, or just post small updates and anyone needs to remember each? How to write as a blog here pls?
  8. I've recapped here: http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f22-networking-networked-audio-and-streaming/24-bit-perfect-streaming-ipad-high-storage-capacity-portability-which-configuration-works-13252/ which configs (just a few) are potentially able to do 24 bit-perfect streaming with iDevices + a portable wi-fi server. Which configs works for you without downsampling data? Please let me know if the subject is more pertinent here or in the other thread. Thanks
  9. Given that we all want the best sound quality we should try to start with the best possible source = 24 bit / xxx Khz files. If we want a large collection of music we must have a high storage capacity for those big files. Then we need to address portability (smallest setup possible), even if not pocketable a small tablet bag is enough to store all devices we need on the go. For iDevices there is so much confusion about bit/freq supports, HW/SW configs and setups for 24 bit-perfect data, and generally not much interest, that I want to try to recap things more clearly and add here any infos reported accurately to keep things updated. I want to roule out jailbroken iDevices for a lot of reasons (iOS updates, updates of apps which follow iOS features, more work and updates with Cydia, warranty support, peace of mind,..) and DIY hardware mods (too many to recap or too difficult to perform). We need a portable DAC and a headphone amp, but let's not limit the choice to single DAC/Amp devices to open up possibilities and to be able choose the config which sounds better. So, with iDevices (not jailbroken), how to pass 24 bit-perfect data to the portable DAC? Portability at home or everywhere? Let's find the different solutions. For portability of some sort, until now the iPad is the only iDevice (without jailbreak) proved to work without downsampling 24 bit / xxx Khz files in any point in the chain and only under specific configurations that I'll recap here: 1. With a Camera Connection Kit. 2. 24 bit USB DACs with a powered USB port (or which requires less than 20mV) and don't require a driver to work at least up to 1.1 USB specs (24bit/96Khz). 3. Battery powered USB Hubs or USB chargers which pass data too (not always the case) if the 24 bit USB DAC is not battery powered but able to do point 2). 4. Logitech Media Server + iPeng (in app purchase needed to unlock its player) or iTunes Home Sharing (with stock player but no FLACs) at home are limited by Wi-Fi range. On the go, without a server, the iPad has limited storage capacity and apps able to do 24 bit-perfect streaming (i.e. stock player or Flac Player for unsopported formats) are less useful. Points 1), 2), 3) are potentially addressable with single 24 bit devices similar the Cypher Labs AR Solo (DAC only) which officially supports 24 bit for iPad only (see page 7 of the FAQ not the manual here http://cypherlabs.com/images/pdfs/Cypher_Labs_AlgoRhythm_Solo_FAQ.pdf ), but still needs to be confirmed by users, testing its own digital coax out to an external dac able to display bit/samples effectively received. The Fostex HP-P1 was potentially the best choice (32 bit DAC/Amp combo) but was reported limited to 16/48 (however a HW or SW revision could be done to make it work at 24 bit). Do you have any other 24 bit capable device suggestion? I'll update the list here: Cypher Labs AR Solo (DAC only - official 24 bit support for iPad only) Given point 2) not any USB DAC works even if it's a desktop powered one. For example my not battery powered iBasso D7 USB DAC/Amp works when connected to a USB battery powered Hub, but my desktop powered M2Tech Young USB DAC won't works even when connected to USB powerd Hubs. To dig deeper some 24 bit DACs that works in the above configuration are unable to process some sample rates even lower than their max supported (96 Khz max but no 88.2 Khz support), it depends on the USB chip used (my iBasso D7 uses the XMOS chip and can do any freq up to 192 Khz). Unbelievable, there isn't a single portable battery powered 24 bit USB DAC/Amp product for iDevices to my knowledge (Fostex HP-P1 is 16 bit only), any suggestion? A few portable unpowered 24 bit USB DAC/Amps work, at least with USB powered Hubs, at any sample up to 96 Khz. I'll update the list here (none are battery powered): iBasso D7 up to 192Khz + point 3). CEntrance DacPort up to 96 Khz + point 3). Audioquest Dragonfly + point 3). (but needs more reports to be sure) For Point 3) a sure approach is to use any normal USB charger with an Y split USB cable (Apricorn USB power splitter for example: black USB to iPad, grey USB to battery, output to the Dac), but it's less elegant than USB battery powered Hubs or chargers which pass data too (chargers USB ports are not always data connected), some are even capable to recharge the iPad. Any suggestion to the list below? I'll update the list here: D-Tech solar/battery powered Hub (solar not able to feed unpowered USB DAC/Amps, battery for 1,5 hours only for iBasso D7 for example). Tekkeon MP1860A and MP1550 (MP1580, MP1820 should works but not confirmed). While previous points are addressable someways, for portability point 4) is the main problem: limited wi-fi range or limited storage capacity. For unlimited portability we need to find a portable high storage wi-fi device capable of 24 bit perfect streaming. I've high hopes for the Seagate GoFlex Satellite Seagate Satellite Wireless | Seagate (500GB, latest FW can use internet while streaming). I've read carefully its manual, faq and other infos, the most intersting parts are: In the manual it's clearly stated it does not transcode (convert) files but is able to stream any files the device supports or files supported by third-party apps. In the FAQ it's stated it has some DLNA capability (but not fully certified), AirPlay it's not yet supported, but some third-party applications are capable of streaming files from the browser interface or DLNA connection and playing that via AirPlay. Even if it's not currently possible, for sure Seagate can do a simple software update to allow 24 bit-perfect streaming to iPad with its built in player. Could someone please add any other portable high storage wi-fi device proved to work without downsampling 24 bit data in the chain? I'll update the list here: (none confirmed) For portability at home, not any apps and servers work for 24 bit-perfect streaming to iPad. For example PlugPlayer and UPnP servers (like JRiver, Asset, Foobar,.. that I've tested) will stream and play stored 24 bit files, but they're always downsampled in some points in the chain regardless of wi-fi type, streaming server settings and configs used. If someone else is able to successfully stream 24-bit perfect to iPad with these or other configs, please post detailed infos. I'll update the list here: Logitech Media Server + iPeng (in-app purchase needed for its player) iTunes Home Sharing + stock iPad player (no FLACs) Other iDevices (without jailbreak) are generally limited to a max official support of 24 bit / 48 Khz, which could be fine, but a portable solution isn't reported yet. With iPhone and iPod Touch, LMS/iPeng or iTunes HS should work, but without a CCK, you need a desktop digital dock like Pure i-20, which is not portable. HP-P1 and CLAS (without iPad) are 16 bit limited. iPod Classic 160GB (without wi-fi) works with 24 bit / 48 Khz files only in the sense that it'll be able to play them but it will downsample to 16/48 max before reaching any DAC section. VentureCraft Go-DAP 4.0 will always downsample to 48Khz. I'll update any possible portable 24 bit solution for other iDevices here: (none confirmed) To prevent unnecessary posts and confusion which will not focus the target (like if you're able or not to hear a sound difference with 24 bit files or to suggest a diferent DAP), please post only detailed configs/settings with iDevices checked with an external dac able to display bit/freq received. Thank you very much and regards. UPDATES are always reported here asap new infos are reported accurately or I'll discover more.
  10. I have high hopes now, the sound is definitively improved during another few hours. Now the cable is singing better than stock cable, to be perfect: a little less dryness, a bit better bass articulation and dynamic. Much better that first few hours, if it could improve for a week it'll be great.
  11. Hi ted_b, I've ordered the WW Platinum USB 1 mt. I don't know if it needs a lot of burn in, but after one day this cable is not better than the standard 3mt that came with my M2Tech Young DAC. The bass il lighter and the tone is not smooth like the stock cable, it seems also compressed and lacks dynamics in comparison. Do you have any experience of its burning in? I can't believe it's defective. For a 500 Euro cable I'm disappointed in day one, for now the stock cable is better.
  12. Unfortunately for computer audio the Naim DAC was tested only with the SPDIF out of the Lynx L22 PCI soundcard, I have not any usb converter, the Lynx digital output was very bad also with all MSB DACs, so the ranking is not fair, I'm sure with a good usb converter the Naim should sound much better.
  13. I use Windows 7 64bit Professional, JRiver MC and WASAPI Event Style for software with hardware based on Intel Sandybridge CPU, SSD and Antec Signature 850watt switching PSU. Just for our different setup there will be a small difference in sound. I'll add that is generally known that the computer is noisy, many manufacturers suggest that a transport with dedicated linear PSU will give better sound than a computer connected to the same DAC which receives some of that noise. If your experience with the Cantata USB input is better than its CD, I can't disagree, I just accept my computer is so noisy it can't compete with its regulated CD power supply. Maybe your Mac is a lower noise computer than mine. I also agree that the Cantata is easier to the ears than the Young, more refined sound and less dry too, but it misses the PRaT, the precision of the soundstage and a bit of HF details of the Young in my opinion and given my system. I'm a Naim fan so PRaT is one of my priority. I can't agree with you that the Cantata is in a different league, if so I should have no doubt which is better, but I'm still unsure. I'm sure the Young can compete in USB mode, I have both connected to my system now, I've switched them a lot and will continue to do so in the following days. It's not so easy to decide, that tells a lot for the Young. However the real point is that the Young is a real high end DAC at a bargain price. I've tested only the latest version with firmware 1.3, which one have you tried? Users experiences suggests the latest is better sounding. I'll update the comparison when the new Teddy Pardo PSU dedicated to the Young will arrives, I'm confident, given the low quality of stock PSU, that it'll give the italian a good boost in performance and maybe so much to better the Cantata in every way.
  14. I've discovered two simple solutions to upgrade the sound of the Cantata USB input and make it less colored, more neutral and better sounding than before. I've discovered that the previous power cable was contributing to the warm and colored sound which masked some detail in the Cantata sound. The new Naim power cable is more neutral, more dynamic and gives the bass more control and at the same time more extension and impact. I've also experimented with digital output from JRiver MC settings, I've selected WASAPI Event Style as the best for the Cantata, it gives it a little bit more detail and dynamic. These two simple mods cures the limits I've pointed to the RA before. In this new configuration I like very much the Cantata even through USB input and now I think it's overall at the same level or better than the Young, it's more powerful in the bass and the volume could be turned up more without causing too much distorsion, the Young dryness prevent to pump up the volume that much. The Cantata has a more refined sound than the Young, even the PRaT is more evident and its closer to the italian now. The soundstage is improved too but the Young is still more precise here, maybe the Young dryness vs. Cantata warmth contribute to the perceived position in space separating the sounds better. I've no more the MSB which is the best so far but the cost/features ratio is not justified anymore, I've already tested cheaper solutions which can satisfy me. The Cantata stays for now I want to give it a better evaluation to all its features I've not tested yet: as a preamplifier, as a network streamer, the quality of each digital input and the difference between single ended and balanced analogue output. I'll update the comparison when the new Teddy Pardo PSU dedicated to the Young arrives, then I'll be able to change also the power cable of its PSU and experiment a bit as I've done with the Cantata.
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