DAC 2496 (AK4393) DAC KIT With CS8416+AK4393+5532

[bcmbob]

The switch is on!

Had to lengthen the chassis by 1 inch to fit everything and reorient the transformer.

Filed the old BNC hole to fit toslink plug.

DPDT switch from local RS.

For now using three segments of RG59 for BNC and some Neotech from Opt.module to switch. May experiment in this area later.

My home made chassis doesn't have room for new BNC - so it's RCA to F on one end - BNC on the other.

System with Asus ITX build showing JRiver Media Center.

Got same impressions with these short cables. Toslnk - bright, clean and defined, BNC same but much fuller with more punch. I'll do much more A/B listening this week, but both will stay for flexibility.

P.S. Sub, center and black towers are not used with the FE amps. They are part of a separate HT system.

[VT67]

Has someone have any experience with this thingy?
Multi-input/converter for DAC(USB+optic+SPDIF+XLR) | eBay

Regards

[erin]

CM102 is a very old USB i2s converter. Also very fussy with power supplies. I dont think it would be great.
I think there are more simple DIY ways to switch SPDIF inputs, you could build one on veroboard.

If you want a USB input, get a dedicated device.

[VT67]

Thanks erin. It could have been a nice addition.

Regards

[bcmbob]

I ran across this one if USB in is what is needed. Looks a little more up to date.

TE7022 USB To SPDIF I2S processor board TE7022 Support 24/96K HZ | eBay

[Timvp]

I have bought the components for Dario's BOM + PCB. I am actually looking for USB support (just so I can bring the DAC and astound all my fiends, oh and yeah also for my laptop).

Would the above be a good option for me? Does anybody have any experience with this module (or should I browse around on diyaudio.com?).

What about the connectors? I can identify the spdif and usb ports, but what about the white connector thingy-majig? I'd expect only a power source next to those above.

I'll keep you informed on the build progress, though it might take awhile...

[bcmbob]

I have not tried that unit, but the white connector appears to be the I2s output. That is a more complicated connection but some on this thread have experience with that mode - and actually prefer it. The converter looks to be powered by the USB link. There are self-contained adapters on eBay if you don't have room in your Mini 2496 chassis.

[erin]

Originally Posted by bcmbob

I ran across this one if USB in is what is needed. Looks a little more up to date.

TE7022 USB To SPDIF I2S processor board TE7022 Support 24/96K HZ | eBay

The TE7022 is a very good chip. BUT, in this case, the design is not that good. This AK4393/6 board is an uncommon exception to the rule. Cheap = Good. Dont think that all cheap ebay kits are good.
If you want to use USB as an input you really need to spend a few extra dollars and get a dedicated, properly designed device.

The cheapest device I recommend is the Teralink X2 @ about $90
More expensive : Musical Fidelity V-link @ $160 , or M2Tech Hiface Two @ $190 Or more expensive(and probably the best, although I have not heard it myself) - the XMOS board from DIYAudio XMOS-based Asynchronous USB to I2S interface

If you are serious about using USB as a source dont muck around with the cheap ones, is my recommendation.

[DarpMalone]

Guys. What should we be looking for in a dedicated usb-spdif/i2s converter? I'm currently using the miniStreamer. It works great but I have nothing to compare it to. What is it in the technology that makes the ones mentioned above ideal?

[erin]

Originally Posted by DarpMalone

Guys. What should we be looking for in a dedicated usb-spdif/i2s converter? I'm currently using the miniStreamer. It works great but I have nothing to compare it to. What is it in the technology that makes the ones mentioned above ideal?

You should be looking for a device which has proven itself to sound good. look for devices with numberous credible reviews from trusted independent reviewers who tesify as to its sound quality.

If you like your ministreamer then that is fine.