Ghardy

Thanks Good to hear from a HDMI user. The tech papers I have read on or should I say criticizing HDMI focus on the problem of running your video and audio at the same time on the same cable. Hence, why Meridian will not instal HDMI into their pre-pro, but uses an external adaptor. Just not much info on HDMI audio only, though I do want to see if I can find the writeup mentioned before by berkley audio on the subject. You touch on a great point regarding the mac mini. The "problem" may not be with the HDMI but rather with how the mac uses the HDMI. Do you run usb from mac to receiver?

Thank you to everyone that joined the discussion. I am trying to get a better understanding of the pros and cons of HDMI as a computer to dac transport. I have been considering the Meridian HD621 for my meridian kit. On paper outputting your digital data via HDMI to the Meridian HD621 with its FIFO buffers and apodizing would seem a better way to skin the cat than than USB. However, in real world some report better results from a USB converter (H.Bidge etc). Probably for the reasons explained by Rob. ANd, given what a pain HDMI is with its ever changing upgrades (not that USB is any different), can not blame anyone from wanting to stay away from HDMI when possible. But, -- HDMI can be run asynchronous, then I will have to research what it would take to get asynchronous data out on a Mac via HDMI.

Thanks for the replies. I guess the question is why not hdmi for stereo? Does hdmi have greater jitter problems?

Checking the knowledge base here regarding hdmi as a digital source. Given that many computers have hdmi out ( I.e Mac mini). I realize that few standalone dac have hdmi in. Meridian being one through the hd621. I guess statement av receivers from denon and the like would also allow. Thanks.