AudioCircle
Industry Circles => Bryston Limited => Topic started by: alexone on 27 May 2012, 07:02 pm
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James,
any news on the update for the BDA-1's ability for 192/24 via USB??
thanks,
al.
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James,
any news on the update for the BDA-1's ability for 192/24 via USB??
thanks,
al.
Hi Al,
We are working on that now but still a few months out. Like everything else there are a number of ways of doing it and we want to investigate a number of them.
james
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...ok, thanks.
one more question:
the SP3's USB is modular and the BDA-1's is not, correct?!?
al.
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...ok, thanks.
one more question:
the SP3's USB is modular and the BDA-1's is not, correct?!?
al.
Correct - but with the USB we are developing we are working on a way to retro-fit the current BDA-1's.
james
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Correct - but with the USB we are developing we are working on a way to retro-fit the current BDA-1's.
james
That's great! :thumb:
Btw, James do you think ideally its the best to keep USB out of the DAC??
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That's great! :thumb:
Btw, James do you think ideally its the best to keep USB out of the DAC??
Good question - the advantage of having it internal is you can use I2S whereas external you are using SPDIF - so you can eliminate one conversion step using an internal USB.
James
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James, don't you think the BDP-1 digital Player with the BDA-1 DAC is the better approach?? Also would there be proper isolation at the USB interface from computer source?
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James, don't you think the BDP-1 digital Player with the BDA-1 DAC is the better approach?? Also would there be proper isolation at the USB interface from computer source?
Hi,
Yes I do but some want to be able to use their Laptop as their source component.
james
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I think it is good move regardless of opinions or technical (dis)advantages, clearly there is market demand and by implementing this interface Bryston will position BDA-1 as viable option to larger audience.
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Hi,
Yes I do but some want to be able to use their Laptop as their source component.
james
That's a reality now and will certainly make the BDA-1 more appealing. :thumb:
Any idea how much will the upgrade be for existing BDA-1 owner? Since we maybe sending in for retrofit you think its a good time to upgrade the software too?
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now that's a promising statement! Wonderful indeed. Thanks for this James. While you're at it, are you considering to retrofit hardware decoding of the DSD format too? That would make the BDA1 the DAC of choice for all matters.
#fingers crossed
Marius
Correct - but with the USB we are developing we are working on a way to retro-fit the current BDA-1's.
james
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That's a reality now and will certainly make the BDA-1 more appealing. :thumb:
Any idea how much will the upgrade be for existing BDA-1 owner?
Hi
Too early to say - we are still looking at what is possible and how best to implement it.
james
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Hi
Too early to say - we are still looking at what is possible and how best to implement it.
james
James - any additional thoughts/developments on a USB upgrade to existing DACs? CES is around the corner and I figured it might be on the table?
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James - any additional thoughts/developments on a USB upgrade to existing DACs? CES is around the corner and I figured it might be on the table?
We are going to offer an external unit that will connect to the BDA-1.
james
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We are going to offer an external unit that will connect to the BDA-1.
james
James, thanks. Do have any inkling as to timing? A few months? A year?
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James, thanks. Do have any inkling as to timing? A few months? A year?
Months :thumb:
James
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James - thanks!
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What is this all about?
Is this new device supposed to connect the computer to BDA-1?
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Here's what I am planning guys:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67171)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67172)
james
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HI James,
Looking forward to yet another great Bryston product.
Would this be the moment to ask for native DSD (as in http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/468-emm-labs-dac2x-review/) and HDMI inputs (as on the http://www.stereophile.com/content/nad-m51-direct-digital-da-converter) too? Might have to make it a little bigger with extra computing power......, but I believe it would make it more future proof?
Would appreciate your thoughts about that.
Marius
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HI James,
Looking forward to yet another great Bryston product.
Would this be the moment to ask for native DSD (as in http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/468-emm-labs-dac2x-review/) and HDMI inputs (as on the http://www.stereophile.com/content/nad-m51-direct-digital-da-converter) too? Might have to make it a little bigger with extra computing power......, but I believe it would make it more future proof?
Would appreciate your thoughts about that.
Marius
Hi Marius
DSD is something we are looking at (does not seem like there is much LEGAL material available though) but I am not happy with the jitter numbers with HDMI.
James
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DSD: great, hope you can do it.
HDMI: I totally appreciate your point of view about jitter/hdmi. Otah, please consider how very convenient it would be to be able to plug the (secondary) hdmi out of DVD/Bluray players right into this new Bryston product, instead of needing another product in between (HDMI de-embedder)
Or would we have to buy an SP3 for that....
Marius
coincidence or not, Channel Classics today started new DSD compilations and here are some of their downloads http://www.channelclassics.com/dsd.html
Hi Marius
DSD is something we are looking at (does not seem like there is much material available though) but I am not happy with the jitter numbers with HDMI.
James
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I guess this would come with Windows/Mac asynchronous USB Audio drivers written by Bryston, and supporting DS, ASIO, Kernal Streaming, and
WASAPI?
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DSD: great, hope you can do it.
HDMI: I totally appreciate your point of view about jitter/hdmi. Otah, please consider how very convenient it would be to be able to plug the (secondary) hdmi out of DVD/Bluray players right into this new Bryston product, instead of needing another product in between (HDMI de-embedder)
Or would we have to buy an SP3 for that....
Marius
Hi
Yes I think this particular product will be targeted to current BDA-1 owners who want to use a state of the art asynchronous USB out from their computer to their current BDA-1 AES/BNC/COAX inputs.
James
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I guess this would come with Windows/Mac asynchronous USB Audio drivers written by Bryston, and supporting DS, ASIO, Kernal Streaming, and
WASAPI?
Hi Bruce
Yes we have written all the driver software and so far at home my demo unit works well with ASIO etc. So far I have tested with Media Monkey and JRiver on my Windows laptop at all samples up to 192/24 and with my MAC PRO Laptop (only at 44 and 96 on the MAC because I only have standard Songbird).
James
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Hi Bruce
Yes we have written all the driver software and so far at home my demo unit works well with ASIO etc. So far I have tested with Media Monkey and JRiver on my Windows laptop at all samples up to 192/24 and with my MAC PRO Laptop (only at 44 and 96 on the MAC because I only have standard Songbird).
James
Any typical computer "hitching" of the sound, or is it interruption free?
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Any typical computer "hitching" of the sound, or is it interruption free?
So far no issues at all :thumb:
james
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HI James,
with the right software and connected to the right DAC (the new Bryston obviously) your MacbookPro ought to be capable of 24/192 http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1596?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
I use Audirvana Plus http://audirvana.com/?page_id=112 that does just that and more (DSD) highly recommended!:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67174)
Marius
Hi Bruce
Yes we have written all the driver software and so far at home my demo unit works well with ASIO etc. So far I have tested with Media Monkey and JRiver on my Windows laptop at all samples up to 192/24 and with my MAC PRO Laptop (only at 44 and 96 on the MAC because I only have standard Songbird).
James
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HI James,
with the right software and connected to the right DAC (the new Bryston obviously) your MacbookPro ought to be capable of 24/192 http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1596?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
I use Audirvana Plus http://audirvana.com/?page_id=112 that does just that and more (DSD) highly recommended!:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67174)
Marius
OK... thanks - will give it a go.
james
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Hi Marius
DSD is something we are looking at (does not seem like there is much LEGAL material available though) but I am not happy with the jitter numbers with HDMI.
James
James - don't know much about it but there are a few DACs out there that can do DSD at the moment - saw this too - http://diydsd.blogspot.com/
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Hi James, any pics on the innards? :)
What would be the key feature of this converter that separate Bryston from the myriad of converters out there??
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What would be the key feature of this converter that separate Bryston from the myriad of converters out there??
[/quote]
Nothing other than it's a Bryston :thumb:
james
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HI James,
with the right software and connected to the right DAC (the new Bryston obviously) your MacbookPro ought to be capable of 24/192 http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1596?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US
I use Audirvana Plus http://audirvana.com/?page_id=112 that does just that and more (DSD) highly recommended!:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67174)
Marius
Hi Marius,
Downloaded it - works great. I am using it in combination with ITUNES getting all sample rates up to 192/24 - any other tips?
Have the trial version for 15 days - how much is it??
james
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:thumb: :thumb:
49$
Hi Marius,
Downloaded it - works great. I am using it in combination with ITUNES getting all sample rates up to 192/24 - any other tips?
Have the trial version for 15 days - how much is it??
james
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another tip might be, since u use the Itunes integration (I never tried yet) to check wether iTunes adds all your indexed hires recordings physically to the Itunes Media folder. Check in Itunes/settings where that is. You might not want to end up with all double files. Playing with more than 1 library is very well possible, but you have to figure out some settings, and startup options.
Yet another tip would be to send one over and see if it works just as well this side of the pond of course :D
Cheers!
Marius
Hi Marius,
Downloaded it - works great. I am using it in combination with ITUNES getting all sample rates up to 192/24 - any other tips?
Have the trial version for 15 days - how much is it??
james
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Hey James,
Interesting direction on USB-A. I've seen other products like this from companies such as Musical Fidelity with their V-DAC and M1 product lines. What I've seen them do is not only offer the USB convertor as a separate component, for those that need it but also integrate the technology in their standalone DAC e.g. M1-DAC A, where "A" stands for asynchronus USB.
Are you considering offering an update to the BDA-1, say the BDA-1 "A" that will have the a-USB integrated? Given where competitors are going with their latest updates to DAC models - it may make sense to integrate this technology (if possible) within an updated version of the BDA-1, while still offering it as a stand-alone for those who already own a BDA or perhaps those who own a competitors DAC product and want what Bryston can offer in a USB convertor.
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Hey James,
Interesting direction on USB-A. I've seen other products like this from companies such as Musical Fidelity with their V-DAC and M1 product lines. What I've seen them do is not only offer the USB convertor as a separate component, for those that need it but also integrate the technology in their standalone DAC e.g. M1-DAC A, where "A" stands for asynchronus USB.
Are you considering offering an update to the BDA-1, say the BDA-1 "A" that will have the a-USB integrated? Given where competitors are going with their latest updates to DAC models - it may make sense to integrate this technology (if possible) within an updated version of the BDA-1, while still offering it as a stand-alone for those who already own a BDA or perhaps those who own a competitors DAC product and want what Bryston can offer in a USB convertor.
Hi
Yes I think a BDA 1A makes a lot of sense.
James
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I think the product makes sense, as do many, at a proper price point for those who like their DACs and may just want the upgraded USB. Depending on which direction I go, it may make lots of sense as I can just use the balanced out of it into the BDA-1 and have plenty of digital inputs. That's one good thing about the BDA-1 vs. some others out there which have more limited inputs. It (the Bryston USB converter) seems similar to this product - http://www.tweekgeek.com/evo-usb-to-spdif-interface/
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Hi James,
Since you're obviously into the software-players with this new product, you might want to have a look at http://www.headfonia.com/os-x-audio-players-amarra-audirvana-pure-music-fidelia-decibel-and-bitperfect/ which has a nice overview of the various players for the Mac. Of course there are more reviews, but this one is rather complete and could be a good startingpoint for further investigation.
I settled for Audirvana+, simply because it sounds, works and feels best for me (and my Mac), doesn't cost a fortune (Puremusic in either version) and has all I need, whiteout all the bells and whistles I don't need and that hog the system (again Puremusic). Fidelia would have been second, had I not settled for Audirvana already...Fidelia could be of special interest to all your BHA1 owners because of the new FHX module.
I'd be interested in your experience with the free version of Audirvana, and whether you agree on the sonic differences this article describes. Lose the Itunes integration, lose the Izotope SRC but lose the pricetag too.
Marius
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Hi Marius,
Only problem I have run into is I can not seem to get the ITOUCH or IPAD to connect so I can use the remote in ITUNES.
james
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do you mean the handheld remote, or the app Remote, http://itunes.apple.com/nl/app/remote/id284417350?mt=8?
If you enable 'home-sharing' , add you library and fireup remote-app, all your library is at hand, and you could even play them over airplay speakers...
will check for the handheld, only ever use that for my Apple tv :D
Cheers,
Marius
Hi Marius,
Only problem I have run into is I can not seem to get the ITOUCH or IPAD to connect so I can use the remote in ITUNES.
james
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do you mean the handheld remote, or the app Remote, http://itunes.apple.com/nl/app/remote/id284417350?mt=8?
If you enable 'home-sharing' , add you library and fireup remote-app, all your library is at hand, and you could even play them over airplay speakers...
will check for the handheld, only ever use that for my Apple tv :D
Cheers,
Marius
The Handheld iTouch and the iPad.
I will look at home sharing but it was working OK before I loaded Audirvana?
james
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Hi James,
We have to be precise here: you say Handheld Itouch and iPad, do you mean the 'music' app on those? Because those handhelds don;t play your locally stored library, but music stored on those handhelds, and of course all your Icloud music.
The itunes app on those is in fact the iTunes store, so not the same as your itunes-app on your mac either. Has all your bought recordings, but that's it.
If you want to control your iTunes library that is on your Mac/Windows machine or a shared Nas, you have to use the wonderful Remote-app and enable home sharing, or use the somewhat basic separate Apple remote, with which you can use the right/left keys to browse albums/artists and up/down for volume control. Play/pause are obvious.
Audirvana +, and I believe all the others that use iTunes (but not sure on this one) use the stored library, as is designated in the settings/advanced page.
Hope this helps.
Marius
The Handheld iTouch and the iPad.
I will look at home sharing but it was working OK before I loaded Audirvana?
james
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Hi James,
We have to be precise here: you say Handheld Itouch and iPad, do you mean the 'music' app on those? Because those handhelds don;t play your locally stored library, but music stored on those handhelds, and of course all your Icloud music.
The itunes app on those is in fact the iTunes store, so not the same as your itunes-app on your mac either. Has all your bought recordings, but that's it.
If you want to control your iTunes library that is on your Mac/Windows machine or a shared Nas, you have to use the wonderful Remote-app and enable home sharing, or use the somewhat basic separate Apple remote, with which you can use the right/left keys to browse albums/artists and up/down for volume control. Play/pause are obvious.
Audirvana +, and I believe all the others that use iTunes (but not sure on this one) use the stored library, as is designated in the settings/advanced page.
Hope this helps.
Marius
OK - thanks - will give it a try.
james
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Does the new device simply pass the input sample rate received from the player application, or can it also be set to upsample to a higher rate and bit count?
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While it is probably too late in the process, I'd love to see someone make a device that reads bit depth (a pet peeve of mine sorry - you can buy an outboard device that displays sampling rate for less than $100). The ATI ADAC2 and another professional unit by Drawmer (and perhaps some others) have this capability but they are about $1.5k. I remember trying a bunch of players with the HDMI audio de-embedder and while the BDA-1 shows 176kHz, I had to drag it over to John Gatski's (of everythingaudio.net) place as he has the ATI unit to confirm it truncates to 16 bit. With all the hi-rez files becoming available, it would be a nice feature.
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Only problem I have run into is I can not seem to get the ITOUCH or IPAD to connect so I can use the remote in ITUNES.
iTunes (basic) Sharing (Edit > Preferences > Sharing tab) and iTunes Home Sharing (Advanced > Turn On Home Sharing) will both let another iTunes computer play a shared library, but the differences with Home Sharing are:
1. Home Sharing allows an iTunes computer to copy (drag-and-drop) shared library content from another iTunes computer
2. A Home Shared library can be streamed to an iOS device, which is useful if the library is much larger than will fit on the device or if the device has not been synced to that computer)
3. Home Sharing requires that all iTunes computers use the same iTunes Store Account and is limited to 5 iTunes computers (iOS devices do not count as computers)
To use the Apple Remote app to control iTunes does not require either Sharing or Home Sharing to be enabled. I have come across several Windows iTunes computers that could not be found via the iOS Remote app, and disabling the firewall allowed the iTunes computer to be recognized (even though the firewall did allow full access to iTunes and Apple Push). Interestingly, the firewall only had to be disabled to make the initial connection and then could be enabled.
Steve
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Hi Steve,
you' re right. I should have been more precise myself :oops: :oops:
Homesharing makes Remote find libraries automatically, and does what you describe of course.
If you don;t want that, (there can be good reasons for that: all my kids can see my libraries, and what;s even worse, play and pause at will....) you can add non-homeshared libraries by entering the 4 number code remote-app generates into iTunes .
Thanks for putting that straight.
Marius
iTunes (basic) Sharing (Edit > Preferences > Sharing tab) and iTunes Home Sharing (Advanced > Turn On Home Sharing) will both let another iTunes computer play a shared library, but the differences with Home Sharing are:
1. Home Sharing allows an iTunes computer to copy (drag-and-drop) shared library content from another iTunes computer
2. A Home Shared library can be streamed to an iOS device, which is useful if the library is much larger than will fit on the device or if the device has not been synced to that computer)
3. Home Sharing requires that all iTunes computers use the same iTunes Store Account and is limited to 5 iTunes computers (iOS devices do not count as computers)
To use the Apple Remote app to control iTunes does not require either Sharing or Home Sharing to be enabled. I have come across several Windows iTunes computers that could not be found via the iOS Remote app, and disabling the firewall allowed the iTunes computer to be recognized (even though the firewall did allow full access to iTunes and Apple Push). Interestingly, the firewall only had to be disabled to make the initial connection and then could be enabled.
Steve
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I have downloaded Amarra as well for a try.
james
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Hi Guys,
Thanks for the tips - got Amarra and Audirvana working perfect as well as the iTunes remote on the iTouch and iPad.
james
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Hi James,
Since you are developing this new digital Bryston machine, what is your opinion on hard- and software being able to decode 384hz files? Haven't ever seen them yet, but Amarra, and for example Antelope Audio Gold http://antelopeaudio.com/en/products/Zodiac-Gold-DAC support this.
Will Bryston go that way somewhere soon too?
Marius
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the tips - got Amarra and Audirvana working perfect as well as the iTunes remote on the iTouch and iPad.
james
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Great,
And before you get all carried away, read this just to be sure:
http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/articles/comments/moving-your-itunes-library-to-a-new-hard-drive/
Marius
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the tips - got Amarra and Audirvana working perfect as well as the iTunes remote on the iTouch and iPad.
james
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Great,
And before you get all carried away, read this just to be sure:
http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/articles/comments/moving-your-itunes-library-to-a-new-hard-drive/
Marius
Back to PC - my first love.
james
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Hi guys
Is there a way to have iTunes display the attached music files in Folders (like on the other interfaces I use with the BDP) rather than the song name?
James
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HI James,
When you ask for Folders, do you mean per Artist? per Composer? Easiest way to do that is to select Album, Artist, Genre or Composer, and search for what ever you want. Select Album and search for Genesis, finds you all Genesis Albums etc etc.
There's no 'folder' view as in Finder or Explorer. (i think)
May I ask why you want a folder view? If you want to manipulate the files, let Itunes take care of that for you. If you really beed the files, they're in Itunes Media on whatever medium you pointed Itunes to in settings/advanced.
Marius
Hi guys
Is there a way to have iTunes display the attached music files in Folders (like on the other interfaces I use with the BDP) rather than the song name?
James
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HI James,
When you ask for Folders, do you mean per Artist? per Composer? Easiest way to do that is to select Album, Artist, Genre or Composer, and search for what ever you want. Select Album and search for Genesis, finds you all Genesis Albums etc etc.
There's no 'folder' view as in Finder or Explorer. (i think)
May I ask why you want a folder view? If you want to manipulate the files, let Itunes take care of that for you. If you really beed the files, they're in Itunes Media on whatever medium you pointed Itunes to in settings/advanced.
Marius
Ok thanks - I guess I am just use to the way it's done with the BDP. I am using Amarra and Audiorvana with iTunes at this point.
James
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Is there a way to have iTunes display the attached music files in Folders (like on the other interfaces I use with the BDP) rather than the song name?
Not sure if this it what you're looking for, but you can use iTunes Column Browser to look at groups of songs. View > Column Browser > Show Column Browser (or toggle Column Browser on and off with Ctrl + B on Windows or Option + B on Mac).
You can select what groups to view by checking the specific column headings on or off also with View > Column Browser.
Steve
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=67458)
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HI James,
Any developments in the USB 192/24 front? You left us a bit unexpected and confused :?
Marius
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HI James,
Any developments in the USB 192/24 front? You left us a bit unexpected and confused :?
Marius
You think you're confused :lol:
Seriously though where did I screw up??
james
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HI James,
Any developments in the USB 192/24 front? You left us a bit unexpected and confused :?
Marius
Unless I misunderstood, it was my understanding that Bryston was going to have a new DAC. For those current BDA-1 owners, they are going to have a separate box which James posted pictures of a page or two back. I initially raised the issue as the last post was May with regard to this subject and I figured with CES around the corner it was time to bug James.
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You think you're confused :lol:
Seriously though where did I screw up??
james
James, you may get a little more confused - as there is a new version of iTunes that is set to launch shortly - read the press release here: http://www.ultrahighendreview.com/apple-announces-itunes-for-mac-and-pc-2012/
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Unless I misunderstood, it was my understanding that Bryston was going to have a new DAC. For those current BDA-1 owners, they are going to have a separate box which James posted pictures of a page or two back. I initially raised the issue as the last post was May with regard to this subject and I figured with CES around the corner it was time to bug James.
HI,
Yes we will be (are) developing a USB 192/24 interface to be added to the BDA-1 before years end.
james
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Lol,
but since you press me: this one i guess http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=106813.msg1127553#msg1127553
You think you're confused :lol:
Seriously though where did I screw up??
james
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Lol,
but since you press me: this one i guess http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=106813.msg1127553#msg1127553
Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
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Super James, how wonderful that would be :thumb:
Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
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Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
Yes - that would be wonderful. I finally have my PS3 up an running to that is capable of ripping DSD that I picked up at the end of June (thanks to HAL). Once I have enough software, it's only going to be a matter of time before I think about a digital source that can best play it.
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Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
Indeed both additions could be very valuable. Would a separate upgrade to BDA-1 present owners be available too?
thank you
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James,
please let it happen that the current BDA-1 can handle DSD one day :green:that would be really great!!
btw, what are the major (technical) issues so far to make the BDA ready for DSD?? if it means a complete redesign it surely would end up in a new product, i guess?!?!
al.
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James,
please let it happen that the current BDA-1 can handle DSD one day :green:that would be really great!!
btw, what are the major (technical) issues so far to make the BDA ready for DSD?? if it means a complete redesign it surely would end up in a new product, i guess?!?!
al.
That's the main issue - it would have to be an add on box.
james
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That's the main issue - it would have to be an add on box.
james
James,
why don't you consider a product that has as many as possible analog/digital stereo features which is simply made in one box? i think that Bryston is able to keep the feature/performance task even if this product is a single unit.
al.
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James,
why don't you consider a product that has as many as possible analog/digital stereo features which is simply made in one box? i think that Bryston is able to keep the feature/performance task even if this product is a single unit.
al.
Yes a BDA-2 with some of the new features makes sense but I worry about customers who have already purchased a BDA-1 and how we move them along as well. You are correct though at some point you just have to move on, technically speaking.
james
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Yes a BDA-2 with some of the new features makes sense but I worry about customers who have already purchased a BDA-1 and how we move them along as well. You are correct though at some point you just have to move on, technically speaking.
james
James, would it makes sense to do a BDP-2 at a cost above the BDP-1 for those wishing DSD too?
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James, would it makes sense to do a BDP-2 at a cost above the BDP-1 for those wishing DSD too?
Yes I think that has merit. It just seems like there are very few interested in DSD as such given it is really DSD encased in a PCM wrapper.
james
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...and even if DSD is something that is wanted only by a few i'd say that most of the (Bryston) customers out there would appreciate a more compact product. this way you could avoid to create "a box for a box". just think about the fact that the BDA-1 would need an add-on box for USB 192/24 and another add-on box for DSD...not a good idea :nono:.
it surely is a pity that the customers who already bought a BDA-1 might never get the chance to update their unit. but that's just the way it is. i love the BDA-1 as it is a great stereo dac! and that is what i wanted it for :thumb:
one thing i would vote for is that this "new product" is as future proof as possible. if it is doable to give it a modular design for future upgrades then Bryston has another superstar to gaze at :green:
al.
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Yes I think that has merit. It just seems like there are very few interested in DSD as such given it is really DSD encased in a PCM wrapper.
james
James, I understand. It's a matter of demand and what it means to develop vs. potential sales. Right now most of my playback is disc based. I plan to move at some point not too far down the road and it would be nice to not have to store some of the media in the listening room
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Hi James,
I believe to have understood as much that DSD can have several implementations: software decoding (like Audirvana+ and others), the wrapper you mention, DoP (DSDoverPCM) but also native DSD decoding. That would ask for a separate hardware (chip) configuration. If you'd consider that and add that to the new USB 192/24, wouldn;t that make this new box to have extra added value next to the BDA1, and prevent the box for a box matter as much as possible? You'd make it stand out of the rest of the available USB converters even more. Add the HDMI deembedding could take it even further...
Ted_B might chime in here, and take away my misunderstandings if so.
Marius
Yes I think that has merit. It just seems like there are very few interested in DSD as such given it is really DSD encased in a PCM wrapper.
james
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IMHO there will only be a significant demand for a BDA-2 when the basic DAC capability is improved/enhanced. If one has the BDP-1 then a USB 192/24 is not required. Adding DSD capability is minor enhancement of limited value to me. BDA-2 should provide above all, improved DAC and any other "features" that would enhance demand for the new unit.
Tony
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I understand but I think from implementation the minor enhancement to play back another format may be easier in terms of manufacturing something that decodes another format (e.g. licensing). Playing back DSD or converted DSD allows one to chose a DAC of their choice. I'd love Bryston to have a DSD DAC. It's not out of the question that I could consider the Meitner. My first challenge is to get enough stuff digitzed before I jump in. Once that is done, then it becomes a matter of looking what is out there and what is likely to become. I'm really happy with the current system and if I do upgrade something, it is going to be a digital source and DAC. I'm hoping by the Spring to Summer time from of 2013, I'm either done or close to done with digitization. There are servers that do DSD and having a Bryston player at a decent price point (perhaps 25-30% above the current BDP) with USB, Firewire and SPDIF out that can do DSD and DSD convertered to PCM to me sounds like it could have enough of a market to make it worthwhile.
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Yes a BDA-2 with some of the new features makes sense but I worry about customers who have already purchased a BDA-1 and how we move them along as well. You are correct though at some point you just have to move on, technically speaking.
james
James, a few companies have been going the way of modular designs or interchangeable boards - is this possible with at BDA-2? Given your concerns about customers, is there a way to break up the boards so that certain parts / circuits more frequent to be changed can be swapped out while essentially keeping the case, power supply, display board etc. intact?? Perhaps even a dealer installed upgrade path?
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James, a few companies have been going the way of modular designs or interchangeable boards - is this possible with at BDA-2? Given your concerns about customers, is there a way to break up the boards so that certain parts / circuits more frequent to be changed can be swapped out while essentially keeping the case, power supply, display board etc. intact?? Perhaps even a dealer installed upgrade path?
There are modular approches that we can use and do on some products - the SP3 for instance.
james
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There are modular approches that we can use and do on some products - the SP3 for instance.
james
Flexibility like this on a Bryston DAC would be great!!!
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Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
I was just reading that Chord release a very affordable version of its Chordette product with not only 32/192 capability but also DSD. I haven't considered DSD myself as I don't own any SACD but there are other places to get these files beyond ripping from a SACD. I know these are competitors but thought it was interesting to share: http://www.audiostream.com/content/dsd-ready-dacs-short-list
Oh, and it seems to be that DACs are becoming more feature rich at lower price points - do you see that the cost of producing a DAC at the level of a BDA actually declining already that it is now possible to offer more at the same price or perhaps even reduce pricing on subsequent models?
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I was just reading that Chord release a very affordable version of its Chordette product with not only 32/192 capability but also DSD. I haven't considered DSD myself as I don't own any SACD but there are other places to get these files beyond ripping from a SACD. I know these are competitors but thought it was interesting to share: http://www.audiostream.com/content/dsd-ready-dacs-short-list
Oh, and it seems to be that DACs are becoming more feature rich at lower price points - do you see that the cost of producing a DAC at the level of a BDA actually declining already that it is now possible to offer more at the same price or perhaps even reduce pricing on subsequent models?
I have not signed up (yet) for Blue Coast Records newsletter but will eventually and I believe they have a sampler one can download.
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Nice examples to try and compare resolution/QoS on Channel Classics, Mahler 1st http://www.channelclassics.com/try-it-now
Marius
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Yes I think that has merit. It just seems like there are very few interested in DSD as such given it is really DSD encased in a PCM wrapper.
james
FYI. Just because us DSD fans listen to pure native DSD via something called DSD over PCM (DoP) doesn't mean that the files, "wrapped in PCM" for the ride, are any less native. The signal path is pure DSD, it's just that it is carried cleverly by a 24/176k packed vehicle, then a flag (imbedded in the first 8 bits) tells the DAC whether it's REAL 1 bit 2.8mhz DSD or is 24/176k PCM. There is no conversion, no faux DSD, etc. it's the real thing. And on Windows, if you use ASIO, there is no DoP either (I have used both and do not hear any difference).
James, you have a PM.
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HI Ted,
Thanks for joining this. Is there no preference for hardware decoding DSD over software decoding?
If so, could the BDP1 (software) be updated to play these files?
Audirvana + plays DSD, and in my situation plays a dsd64 file on the MAcbook in 24/44.1 resolution. I could attach the MAcbook to the BDA1 but would still have the same resolution over USb or optical. Seems there's a lot of conversion going on, and James always advices to play native resolution.
What's to choose?
Marius
FYI. Just because us DSD fans listen to pure native DSD via something called DSD over PCM (DoP) doesn't mean that the files, "wrapped in PCM" for the ride, are any less native. The signal path is pure DSD, it's just that it is carried cleverly by a 24/176k packed vehicle, then a flag (imbedded in the first 8 bits) tells the DAC whether it's REAL 1 bit 2.8mhz DSD or is 24/176k PCM. There is no conversion, no faux DSD, etc. it's the real thing. And on Windows, if you use ASIO, there is no DoP either (I have used both and do not hear any difference).
James, you have a PM.
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Marius, I'm not exactly sure what you are asking. I have three OS's serving me DSD: OSX (A+ or PM), Windows (J River, Foobar, HQplayer) and MPD Linux (embedded player of course). I have no idea whether the BDP-1 could be updated to play DSD, as it involves more than just the OS I would think, but, nonetheless, the Voyage MPD OS does have a version that supports DSD, yes. And it supports DSF metadata/tagging, etc. In Linux and OSX I use DoP, in Windows I use ASIO (only cuz I want to try DSD128 and my home office DAC, the Mytek, only supports DSD128 in ASIO right now....temporary and unique circumstance). I will be building a minimalist Windows server (Computer Audiophile calls it CAPS V2) in the next days and it will serve my main rig. Then I can do a proper "which minimalist server and OS sounds best for me" thing. :)
If the BDP-1 is made to do DSD I would think it would be amazing! It would be asking for a new big brother though :)
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Main question is , I think :scratch:, whether we need a dedicated DSD-decoding chip in Brystons setup, or can rely on new software, to play DSD files optimally on the BDP1.
I can now output Audirvana+ to the BDA1, but it downsizes the resolution over USB. James is making this new USB 192/24 box to have high res USB transport. How wonderful would it be to be able to play DSD natively on that. Either through software or hardware, which you explained both to be valid DSD playing. Or on the BDP1 with updated software, if possible.
There are so many options, it gets confusing to choose the best. Would appreciate your expert opinion on this.
Thanks!
Marius
Marius, I'm not exactly sure what you are asking. I have three OS's serving me DSD: OSX (A+ or PM), Windows (J River, Foobar, HQplayer) and MPD Linux (embedded player of course). I have no idea whether the BDP-1 could be updated to play DSD, as it involves more than just the OS I would think, but, nonetheless, the Voyage MPD OS does have a version that supports DSD, yes. And it supports DSF metadata/tagging, etc. In Linux and OSX I use DoP, in Windows I use ASIO (only cuz I want to try DSD128 and my home office DAC, the Mytek, only supports DSD128 in ASIO right now....temporary and unique circumstance). I will be building a minimalist Windows server (Computer Audiophile calls it CAPS V2) in the next days and it will serve my main rig. Then I can do a proper "which minimalist server and OS sounds best for me" thing. :)
If the BDP-1 is made to do DSD I would think it would be amazing! It would be asking for a new big brother though :)
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At the very least you need a DSD capable DAC, period. Simply serving up DSD files, whether via DoP or ASIO, is not enough. The DAC chip MUST be capable of 1 bit 2.8mHZ decoding. You can't fake it. And to retrofit a DAC that has an underutiltized DSD capability (many DAC chips can theoretically do it and don't)...ain't easy. it's not firmware, it's a hardware revision. If James/Bryston is truly creating a new DAC , capable of 24/192 via USB, then the chip must be DSD-capable. Just 24/192 is not enough. There is no "software" solution.
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If the BDP-1 is made to do DSD I would think it would be amazing! It would be asking for a new big brother though :)
That's why I suggested it to James a page or two back. There's nothing like family :lol: When I get done digitizing my files, the BDA-1 with the outboard box to do 24/192 over USB would be OK for a short term solution for me. I do think there is a market for it. The Sonore music server with an upgraded power supply is not cheap and it allows room for a BDP-2 at a price point that is competitive. There are a bunch of companies do music servers. Having a read audiophile player where all formats are supported is going be an easy buy for me and mean I can make a decision shortly after that on a DSD DAC. It would sure be nice to have a new family member at CES 2014! :thumb:
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Aha, Check! the very reason I suggested James to incorporate this is the new Usb192/24 box.
Hope James will check this and consider its possibilities.
Thank you Ted(_b) and Phil(-a)
Marius
At the very least you need a DSD capable DAC, period. Simply serving up DSD files, whether via DoP or ASIO, is not enough. The DAC chip MUST be capable of 1 bit 2.8mHZ decoding. You can't fake it. And to retrofit a DAC that has an underutiltized DSD capability (many DAC chips can theoretically do it and don't)...ain't easy. it's not firmware, it's a hardware revision. If James/Bryston is truly creating a new DAC , capable of 24/192 via USB, then the chip must be DSD-capable. Just 24/192 is not enough. There is no "software" solution.
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Hi,
Yes we are looking at DSD and if it is possible on the current BDA-1.
james
James,
is DSD still an option for the BDA-1??
al.
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James,
is DSD still an option for the BDA-1??
al.
No - the chip set can not decode it.
james
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Does anyone else think that James Tanner looks kinda like John Abercrombie,just sayin. no offence meant or intended.
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No - the chip set can not decode it.
james
James,
- is there something like an outboard DSD/USB device possible for BDA-1owners?
- what about a trade-in??
al.
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James,
- is there something like an outboard DSD/USB device possible for BDA-1owners?
- what about a trade-in??
al.
Hi Al,
No device I am aware of and the trade in would be a dealer issue.
james
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James,
- is there something like an outboard DSD/USB device possible for BDA-1owners?
- what about a trade-in??
al.
The outboard USB box would of course allow DSD converted (Foobar and JRiver both do it) to hi-rez PCM. James, what will the outboard USB box run out of curiousity? It may be a good short-term solution for me while software gets developed and would make a killer DAC combo with a server for a back-up system.
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The outboard USB box would of course allow DSD converted (Foobar and JRiver both do it) to hi-rez PCM. James, what will the outboard USB box run out of curiousity? It may be a good short-term solution for me while software gets developed and would make a killer DAC combo with a server for a back-up system.
Not sure yet - Hope around $600
Prototype:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=68710)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=68711)
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James, thanks. You noted about the BDA-2 being DSD capable but nothing about the BDP-2 being able to pass DSD. Will it be able to? Would be a nice combo at around $5.4k. Less than the Meitner DAC alone. Do you think it is likely that software will be written by the middle of 2013?
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James, thanks. You noted about the BDA-2 being DSD capable but nothing about the BDP-2 being able to pass DSD. Will it be able to? Would be a nice combo at around $5.4k. Less than the Meitner DAC alone. Do you think it is likely that software will be written by the middle of 2013?
I do not think the BDP-2 will be able to pass DSD.
The software for the BDA2 we are looking at options now.
james
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I do not think the BDP-2 will be able to pass DSD.
james
James - even passing it over to the BDA-2 via PCM? - e.g. http://www.dcsltd.co.uk/page/assets/DSDoverUSB.pdf
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The Auraliti PK 100 that share some similar platform/hardware to the BDP-1 can somehow play the DIFF file now. I'm not sure if it's direct DSD signal passing through its BNC connection, though.
http://www.auraliti.com/Store.html
MSB Tech's new firmware also enables their DAC & universal transport to play DSD through all their inputs / outputs.
So, I'm wondering if Bryston can work around the software part to do the same. Cheers.
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Hello. I hope it's acceptable to ask this question here. It seems to be related to the thread. I'm having issues with a BDA-1 and 192/24 as well as other files.
I have imported a few 24bit flac files at sample rates of 44.1, 88.2 and 192 Hz into Decible on a MacBook Pro. When I connect to the BDA-1 via USB the Sample Rate indicator on the BDA-1 lights up at 44k for each of these files. The Lock LED also lights up. When I connect to the BDA-1 via the optical output on the MacBook Pro the BDA-1 Sample Rate indicator lights up at 48k for these same files. Again, the Lock LED lights up. What is happening here? Shouldn't the BDA-1 be indicating 88.2 or 192 Hz signal for those files?
The sound is good but I'd like to understand what's happening here and what I might be missing?
Thanks,
David
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Hi,
Is there any software for ripping SACD (DSD) discs :green:?
Ciao, Luigi
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Is this the chip in BDA-1? - http://www.cirrus.com/en/pubs/proDatasheet/CS4398_F1.pdf (http://www.cirrus.com/en/pubs/proDatasheet/CS4398_F1.pdf)
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Hi,
Is there any software for ripping SACD (DSD) discs :green:?
Ciao, Luigi
'
There's a whole thread in the hi-rez music circle about which PS3s and which firmware can be used
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Hi,
Is there any software for ripping SACD (DSD) discs :green:?
Ciao, Luigi
Here's the thread - http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=95396.0
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MSB Tech claims you can use thier universal transports to rip SACD's too.
I'd go with much cheaper PS3, though. :P
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Hey Phil,
Great news, there is a way to decode SACD, but you need a PS3...
Is there any commercially available software for ripping SACDs?
Ciao, Luigi
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Hey Phil,
Great news, there is a way to decode SACD, but you need a PS3...
Is there any commercially available software for ripping SACDs?
Ciao, Luigi
Not aware of any. The hi-rez music circle would have more information though
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Hey Phil,
Great news, there is a way to decode SACD, but you need a PS3...
Is there any commercially available software for ripping SACDs?
Ciao, Luigi
PM me
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HI James,
Is there any news on the usb converter? When will it arrive and what will be the final specs?
Thanks!
Marius
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HI James,
Is there any news on the usb converter? When will it arrive and what will be the final specs?
Thanks!
Marius
Hi Marius,
yes Dan is working on it now and I hope to have it ready in about 2 months.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=70846)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=70847)
james
james
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Also, have you decided on a name yet?
He asked with great anticipation :dance:
Bob
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exciting!
any chance of a front usb receptacle? Have you decided on the DSD support yet, maybe have a look how Cord supports DSD in its new Chordette?
looking forward to it as a bda1 owner....
Thanks,
Marius
Hi Marius,
yes Dan is working on it now and I hope to have it ready in about 2 months.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=70846)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=70847)
james
james
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Also, have you decided on a name yet?
He asked with great anticipation :dance:
Bob
Thinking BUC-1
James
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Seems to be good news for Marius :thumb:
Re: BDA-2 DAC
« Reply #54 on: 24 Oct 2012, 02:55 pm »
Quote
Hi James,
Could you still add a front USB port also (not an extra, but doubling the back port)?
The back port is great for fixed aparatus, (like a new MacMini for example...) but a front port would make life much easier on those that bring their laptops to play more infrequently (is that an english word.. ) and connecting to it so much easier. Positioning the BUC-1 more elegantly too.
Cheers,
Marius
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Seems to be good news for Marius :thumb:
Re: BDA-2 DAC
« Reply #54 on: 24 Oct 2012, 02:55 pm »
Quote
Hi James,
Could you still add a front USB port also (not an extra, but doubling the back port)?
The back port is great for fixed aparatus, (like a new MacMini for example...) but a front port would make life much easier on those that bring their laptops to play more infrequently (is that an english word.. ) and connecting to it so much easier. Positioning the BUC-1 more elegantly too.
Cheers,
Marius
Hi,
No we have looked at it and moving the USB to the front and that far away from the DAC causes performance issues.
james
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Ok thank you James,
Now we'll have to have use a USB cable to come to the front of the AudioRack to connect it to the Laptop (in my Case). Won't that impact performance even more ? Sorry for not understanding, but what do you mean with the longer distance to the DAC? U mean the BDA? Or the Chip in the BUC-1?
Marius
Hi,
No we have looked at it and moving the USB to the front and that far away from the DAC causes performance issues.
james
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Ok thank you James,
Now we'll have to have use a USB cable to come to the front of the AudioRack to connect it to the Laptop (in my Case). Won't that impact performance even more ? Sorry for not understanding, but what do you mean with the longer distance to the DAC? U mean the BDA? Or the Chip in the BUC-1?
Marius
Hi Marius,
OK I think we are confusing the BDA-2 DAC vs the USB Interface. With the USB interface you want the USB connector to be as close to the USB Receiver chip as possible. In the BDA-2 DAC you want the USB circuit to be as close to the DAC as possible.
james
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I understand the proximity-issue in the USB interface. I think. to be honest I would have thought that either the front or back panel, would be just as far away from the receiverchip, since it is a rather small box your designing.
By the way, I did not mean to ask for a replacement of the backpanel usb-port, just an extra frontpanel usb port, to enable easy hooking up of a mobile computer. With a usb-port only on the backpanel, that is just that bit more uncomfortable.
But, as always, lets opt for optimal Bryston sound.
Have you considered the DSD-option in the BUC-1?
Thanks
Marius
Hi Marius,
OK I think we are confusing the BDA-2 DAC vs the USB Interface. With the USB interface you want the USB connector to be as close to the USB Receiver chip as possible. In the BDA-2 DAC you want the USB circuit to be as close to the DAC as possible.
james
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I understand the proximity-issue in the USB interface. I think. to be honest I would have thought that either the front or back panel, would be just as far away from the receiverchip, since it is a rather small box your designing.
By the way, I did not mean to ask for a replacement of the backpanel usb-port, just an extra frontpanel usb port, to enable easy hooking up of a mobile computer. With a usb-port only on the backpanel, that is just that bit more uncomfortable.
But, as always, lets opt for optimal Bryston sound.
Have you considered the DSD-option in the BUC-1?
Thanks
Marius
Hi Marius,
The USB Interface is not a small box - it is 1/3rd the size of the BDA-2.
james
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oops, sorry James. No offence meant :oops:
Hi Marius,
The USB Interface is not a small box - it is 1/3rd the size of the BDA-2.
james
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oops, sorry James. No offence meant :oops:
Hi Marius,
None taken sir - it is just I want to make sure customers understand this in not your typical pencil shaped USB powered interface.
james
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Is this the chip in BDA-1? - http://www.cirrus.com/en/pubs/proDatasheet/CS4398_F1.pdf (http://www.cirrus.com/en/pubs/proDatasheet/CS4398_F1.pdf)
Yes it is. And it is DSD capable as it seems (although I'm not electronic chips expert).
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these might be an inspiration for the Bryston USB interface: http://www.chordelectronics.co.uk/products-info.asp?id=74 and http://www.chordelectronics.co.uk/products-info.asp?id=85 both able to play DSD over Usb.
fingers crossed,
Cheers
Marius