USB to COAX converter

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sfraser

USB to COAX converter
« on: 6 Jul 2021, 06:52 pm »
I apologise if this is off topic (there is Bryston products further down the audio chain I promise ). I am looking for recommendations for a USB to Digital COAX converter to interconnect my laptop to my Benchmark DAC 1 (non USB model). In the past I was using a desktop with a M-Audio soundcard with Digital outputs. There are many "adapters" available that appear to perform this function. Does anyone have any experience with them?

Thanks,

mreeter

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GrooveControl

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #2 on: 7 Jul 2021, 02:42 am »
I use a Topping D10s, available from aliexpress at about $150CAD.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4001237817430.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.27424c4d5M3NsY

I initially used it as a USB to spdif converter between a rpi4 and my main dac.  I have since disconnected the main dac (SMSL SU-8) as I couldn’t hear a difference between the SMSL and Topping D10s.

Neat feature is that it runs on USB power, no separate power supply needed. One cable from rpi4 to D10s, and then rca cables to the preamp.   Nice and simple. 

Here is a link to a review on ASR...  https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-d10s-usb-dac-and-bridge-review.14859/
« Last Edit: 7 Jul 2021, 04:35 pm by GrooveControl »

Armaegis

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #3 on: 8 Jul 2021, 04:46 am »
I was just about to suggest the Gustard linked above. I've got a Peachtree X1 converter sitting around that I haven't used in a while if you're interested in that.

But honestly, the DAC1 is quite outdated as dacs go these days. Rather than spend the money to chain components, I'd just put it towards a dac that can take usb directly.

RwVision

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #4 on: 16 Jul 2021, 12:11 pm »
If anyone wants to stay with their dac and needs usb converter - go for Mutec MC+USB. It really does it's job marvelous with usb and re-clocking.

R. Daneel

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #5 on: 17 Jul 2021, 03:58 pm »
If anyone wants to stay with their dac and needs usb converter - go for Mutec MC+USB. It really does it's job marvelous with usb and re-clocking.

Hi!

Do you own this one? It looks superb.

Cheers - Antun

RwVision

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #6 on: 18 Jul 2021, 10:30 am »
Yes, playing with it 1 year now and will not replace it - my colleagues around bought 3 units for themselves. Mutec MC3 + USB to be precise. The usb versions were updated and sound definitely better than non-usb versions. We tested that and even got confirmation from Mutec itself.

Previously I've had Ifi iLink, then tested various M2tech solutions, some other usa company and finally decided for Mutec MC3. It really stands out and does re-clocking, which also helps the dac itself with coax input. Quality and build matches the Bryston standard also :D

hawkeye99

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #7 on: 18 Jul 2021, 10:43 am »
Bryston BUC-1. You would have to find a used one though as they are no longer made.

RwVision

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #8 on: 18 Jul 2021, 10:55 am »
Still available and still produced :) But I recommend looking for used ines due the price. I mean the mutec mc3

R. Daneel

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #9 on: 20 Jul 2021, 05:53 pm »
Yes, playing with it 1 year now and will not replace it - my colleagues around bought 3 units for themselves. Mutec MC3 + USB to be precise. The usb versions were updated and sound definitely better than non-usb versions. We tested that and even got confirmation from Mutec itself.

Previously I've had Ifi iLink, then tested various M2tech solutions, some other usa company and finally decided for Mutec MC3. It really stands out and does re-clocking, which also helps the dac itself with coax input. Quality and build matches the Bryston standard also :D

Awesome! Is it made in Germany?

Cheers - Antun

RwVision

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Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #10 on: 20 Jul 2021, 05:55 pm »
Awesome! Is it made in Germany?

Cheers - Antun

Yes, Germany.

sfraser

Re: USB to COAX converter
« Reply #11 on: 20 Jul 2021, 09:05 pm »
Thanks guys, I will look into some of these options.