IMO, adding an Asynchronous USB input ... would broaden the appeal of this new DAC.
I'm surprised that someone like oneinthepipe, who's digital source is computer-based, doesn't understand that.
I understand that Frank might sell more DACs if he added USB inputs. I am certain that Frank understands that he might sell more DACs if he added USB inputs. Apparently, the fulcrum of Frank's value system is producing the best-sounding DACs rather than the best-selling DACs. If Frank eventually decides to include USB inputs in his DACs, I am confident that the DACs will operate flawlessly. I could buy any manufacturer's DAC. However, I sent my Insight SL to Frank today to have a Vision DAC installed,
sans USB.
I don't read Stereophile. I sat two seats away from the editor on the limo ride to the airport after RMAF. I listened to the guy drone on to some manufacturer's rep for an hour. At one point, I was tempted to ask the guy if Stereophile, or their parent company, which he indicated was concerned about profits, intended to have a "100 Best Looking Products" issue, similar to People Magazine's Most Beautiful People issue. I believe that particular issue, like the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, is always a big money-maker.
I think if members wish to "educate" Frank, who has over 40 years of experience in audio design, they should have the courtesy of contacting him privately. However, "malcontents" usually don't display an abundance of courtesy, and instead, are more likely to demonstrate their narcissism by criticizing a manufacturer in a thread, in the manufacturer's own forum, in which the manufacturer eagerly announced a new product. I think that is the height of bad manners, in addition to being indicative of other issues. Of course, they will protest, silently I hope, that they were merely trying to be helpful or that they were just trying to stimulate "constructive" discussion.
BTW, jhm731, which DACs have you designed and produced? Chris C., what products listed on your website did you design and manufacture? I didn't think so.