[USAudio]

Over a recent 3 day period, I had the opportunity to do a direct comparison of the CIAudio VDA-2 (with VAC-1) and the PS Audio Digital Link III.
Maybe it was just me, my lack of "golden" ears or my system but after listening to Rock, Jazz, Blues, Acoustical and even some middle-ages-era church music sung in Latin, the 2 units were indistinguishable -- I couldn't detect ANY appreciable difference between the 2 DACs.

This, to me, really says a lot about the more-affordable, better built (IMO) and smaller VDA-2/VAC-1 combo.  I was really impressed with the little guy, it's a keeper!

Terrific work Dusty and CIAudio!   

[CIAudio]

Over a recent 3 day period, I had the opportunity to do a direct comparison of the CIAudio VDA-2 (with VAC-1) and the PS Audio Digital Link III.
Maybe it was just me, my lack of "golden" ears or my system but after listening to Rock, Jazz, Blues, Acoustical and even some middle-ages-era church music sung in Latin, the 2 units were indistinguishable -- I couldn't detect ANY appreciable difference between the 2 DACs.

This, to me, really says a lot about the more-affordable, better built (IMO) and smaller VDA-2/VAC-1 combo.  I was really impressed with the little guy, it's a keeper!

Terrific work Dusty and CIAudio

The VDA-2 should similar but a little better. We use the PCM1794, which is a higher performance version of the 1798 used in the PS. This allows for use of a simpler/better discrete analog stage.

[Jon L]

Over a recent 3 day period, I had the opportunity to do a direct comparison of the CIAudio VDA-2 (with VAC-1) and the PS Audio Digital Link III.
Maybe it was just me, my lack of "golden" ears or my system but after listening to Rock, Jazz, Blues, Acoustical and even some middle-ages-era church music sung in Latin, the 2 units were indistinguishable -- I couldn't detect ANY appreciable difference between the 2 DACs.

This, to me, really says a lot about the more-affordable, better built (IMO) and smaller VDA-2/VAC-1 combo.  I was really impressed with the little guy, it's a keeper!

Terrific work Dusty and CIAudio!   

Interesting.  It would help if you listed the playback chain, including transport, digital cable, etc?

[USAudio]

The VDA-2 should similar but a little better. We use the PCM1794, which is a higher performance version of the 1798 used in the PS. This allows for use of a simpler/better discrete analog stage.

Any particular area in which it should be better?  Like I said, I don't have "golden ears" so I didn't hear any difference but that doesn't mean it wasn't there and couldn't be heard by folks with more acute/trained hearing.  After reading various glowing reviews on the DLIII I expected it to be the greatest thing since sliced bread but IMHO it wasn't superior to the VDA-2, that's for sure.  The comparison just reinforced my decision to buy the VDA-2/VAC-1.