USB to AES converter

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Joined 2007
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I want to convert a usb output from a MacMini to an aes/ebu connection on an active speaker. I’ve seen some devices that do this but they are very pricey. Like this
https://www.matrix-digi.com/product/82/X-SPDIF3 This device costs $500. While I’m sure this would do the job it’s alot more than I need or am willing to pay There must be a simpler more affordable solution. Suggestions or links please. I don’t want anything that will degrade the data.
Thanks,
Jcris
 
Maybe you could cascade a USB to I2S interface (like Amanero Combo384 or I2SoverUSB) with an I2S to S/PDIF and AES/EBU interface. This is an example of an I2S to AES/EBU interface designed to be driven by an Amanero: https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/inte...al-interface-32bit-384khz-dsd128-p-13627.html

It appears Amanero also has a Combo384SE with S/PDIF connection, https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/inte...b-384khz-spdif-wm8804-to-i2s-dsd-p-14535.html Add a small transformer to convert 75 ohm unbalanced to 110 ohm balanced and there is a good chance that it works, even though the voltage levels are not exactly according to the AES standard.

Or this: https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/digi...es-spdif-i2s-32bit-192khz-dop128-p-14869.html
 
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AX tech editor
Joined 2002
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I had very good results with a JLsounds converter. < € 100.
The number of options is dizzying, but if you ask they configure it before shipping.
I also got a small optical and coax output board to mount on the case panel.

Edit that audiophonics thing also looks good, but no idea how good the quality of clocks etc is.

Jan
 
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Good move. I've had such a device in use for maybe 10 years, called "Breeze" and found it on eBay for maybe $35. Nice box. Also has fiber output and choice of clock.

I connect a Mac to the Breeze then to Input A of the great workhorse, Behrenger DCX2496. Not sure if Input A is nominally AES or SPDIF (which differ only in signal voltage) but seems to work just with either level signal. BTW, connecting to the DCX this way keeps things digital past the input stage which otherwise is the victim of undeserved criticism.

I believe anything digital is great sound and the Breeze doesn't disappoint.

A major issue for me was how to do a master volume control for all the speakers together and maintaining good gain management. Can't control volume from the Mac laptop - unless there's an after-market software fix I don't know about. Ended up with multiple pots mounted on a single shaft and lots of RCA jacks.
 
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Joined 2004
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Well there are these, and there are a bunch of them on eBay and they are under $24 typically shipped

https://www.ebay.com/itm/353538460669?

I use AES extensively and am planning to get one or two of these as quick problem solvers, if they don't work I haven't wasted much.

I have been experimenting with a cheap SPDIF RX/TX to USB interface, I haven't finished evaluating it, but it at least works and shows up as an interface I can connect to in Reaper. Sound quality will be evaluated next. It was cheap enough to throw away if it doesn't meet my expectations.