Raj UK

Hello John_Foxx_Fan<br /> <br /> Before the V-Link, I used USB direct from PC for windows internet apps like youtube and for Spotify. I also had coax connected to my motherboard Realtek HD Audio chip through Foobar 2000 kernel streaming. I would then switch inputs on my DacMagic as required. No longer the case, everthing runs through V-Link.<br /> <br /> The V-Link Direct Sound driver in Foobar 2000 beats the sound of Kernel Streaming Driver of the on-board Realtek HD Audio with coax connection.<br /> <br /> I also observed that when the V-link is selected as default Audio device in Windows Sounds, it greys out all controls, Volume, advanced properties, Speaker settings, the lot. I don't know whether this is significant, but it strikes me as a positive indication that the device rejects meddling from Windows as much as is possible.<br /> <br /> Cheers

Hello John_Foxx_Fan,<br /> <br /> The V-link is used with my standard PC and is a must as far as the DacMagic goes. Better timing, more solid stereo image. Generally a much more accurate sound. Absolute bargain. Gets the best out of your DAC. Don't expect it to drastically change the character of your system, that's not it's job. But you will receive more insight and the musical message will be much more cohesive. Over longer listening periods I noticed my song choices changed and the range and types of music I listen to has increased. All signs of a good Hifi upgrade, all for £95 - BARGAIN!<br /> <br /> I recently tested the M1DAC in my system against the DacMagic, both with the V-link attached and it's just not worth buying if you've got the DacMagic. However, M1DAC does have a more heavier and weighty sound, and is cleaner. It ticks all the boxes for a good hifi sound. But it lacks the energy and pace of the DacMagic. M1DAC over longer listening tests is a yawn and has a lumbering sound compared to the DacMagic, which is lighter, more agile and generally more engaging.<br /> <br /> I have tested both V-Link and M1DAC in my brothers PC system also, he has custom built his DAC, the same observations as above were experienced.<br /> <br /> I can't comment on Toslink vs Coax - I'm only using coax, which I prefer to optical. IMO although optical can be cleaner sounding, it's not as engaging as Coax. However, this all depends on the system and the cables you are using. I have a Russ Andrews based system with kimber cables throughout and a number of external filters/mains conditioners and the Russ Andrews AC12 upgraded PSU for the DacMagic, so small changes can be heard easily. If you have a budget system with standard cabling, then you may as well use optical. Chris did say that the V-link showed minimal differences between Optical and Coax, so maybe stick with your optical for now. You will still hear all the benefits. Worth trying coax going forward, just to find out. Remember, it matters how your DAC treats coax vs optical, in my experience the coax on the DacMagic sounds better.<br /> <br /> In conclusion, the V-link is essential if you are happy with your non-Async DacMagic, it will improve things. If you are not satisfied with your DAC, then maybe wait and go for a more expensive Async USB DAC. A higher quality, well built DAC will give you a substantial increase in sound quality from the DacMagic, not the M1DAC with V-link.<br /> <br /> Cheers<br /> <br /> PS: I don't think the Arcam Async rDAC will be any better than V-Link/DacMagic combo.

Helpful review. I purchased the V-link (in part due to your review) for my humble budget DacMagic kit and it has transformed the SQ to a new level. Asynchrony is a must in PC based Audio.<br /> <br /> Now I'm looking to improve my system. Is the M1DAC not worthy to be included in the C.A.S.H List? If not, can you elaborate on it's weaknesses?<br /> <br /> I just don't want to buy a DAC that is too expensive, but it needs to be a tangible step forward from the DacMagic. Any advice would be helpful.<br /> <br />