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ASUS HDAV 1.3 Upgrade Recommendations for Audiophile System


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Hello,

 

I've assembled an audiophile sound system of the following, but I think my computer is now the weak link:

- FLAC files on computer (Windows 7, ASUS HDAV 1.3 using SPDIF or RCA outputs)

- Krell S1000 preamp (XLR to amps)

- Mark Levinson 436 monoblocks

- Thiel CS-2.4 speakers

 

My problem is that I don't trust my computer and what its doing to the signal. I attempted a comparison test last night using the RCA outputs on the HDAV 1.3 vs the SPDIF output to the Krell preamp, and didn't really notice much of a difference.

 

I would like to upgrade my soundcard to change my computer into an audiophile source, can anyone help me out with some recommendations? I'm thinking of trying a pro-level RME card, but I'm not sure if that's the right choice.

 

Thanks,

Chris

SoCal HiFi

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A USB to SPDIF converter is probably now a better option than RME card. Chris recently reviewed the Musical Fidelity V-Link 192 which may be a good starting point.

 

Eloise

Eloise

---

...in my opinion / experience...

While I agree "Everything may matter" working out what actually affects the sound is a trickier thing.

And I agree "Trust your ears" but equally don't allow them to fool you - trust them with a bit of skepticism.

keep your mind open... But mind your brain doesn't fall out.

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Thanks for the reply. So that would still be using the DACs in my Krell preamp. Can someone explain why the external USB/spdif converter would be better than using the spdif output on my ASUS. I just configured it to use ASIO, so I shoud be bypassing all of the windows processing, right?

 

I'm still having trouble underdtanding the differences in digital processing and what factors matter, such as clocks and jitter.

 

Thanks,

Chris

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For 2 channel music;

1.) Use J River media player, better than Win 7. $50.00

2.) Replace Asus HDAV 1.3 with ASUS Xonar ST ( not the STX! ) with S/pdif coax only as output. This is what I use, and it performs very well. $209.00. You will be using the Asus ST as an exceptional S/pdif bridge.

2a.) Or, as Audio-ELF recommends, try the V Link which has just been reviewed in the C.A.S.H. list. $399

3.) Eliminate the Krell except for use with video and multi channel processing. Volume control is done with internal volume control with J River, a one layered control system.

4.) Purchase stand alone Dac $479. I use the Peachtree Dacit (see review in C.A.S.H.) Whatever Dac you purchase, it must have a S/pdif coax input.

5.) Output, good RCA cables to amp. Check compatibility of Output from Dac with monoblocks.

 

Total cost with Asus Xonar ST config.= $739

" " " V Link " = $929

 

I'm sure you will get other recommendations, good luck... :0)

PC (J River-Jplay) > USB > Mytek 192 - DSD > XLR > Adcom GFP-750 Pre > XLR > Emotiva XPA-5 > Snell C/V's (bi-amped) / Klipsch Sub <100 Hz

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