[Martyn]

Well, I've just completed my Ripper half-kit, checked it, tested it, and followed all Jim's instructions for downloading and setting up the recording and playback software, and guess what? It works! Just like that! Thanks, Jim, for such a well executed DIY product. You've clearly put great effort into making the project almost foolproof for electronic novices like me. It's much appreciated.

Two questions:

1. The LEDs are rather bright. Is there a dimmer alternative (and perhaps in green)?

2. I've included the S/PDIF option. Can this be used as a digital input as an alternative to USB? I think I can guess the answer to this, but it's worth asking. If so, I'd like to use the digital output of my Squeezebox to feed the Ripper's DACs. This way I could use the SB as a GUI to Slimserver instead of using a PC's monitor and Foobar (I assume that the Ripper's DACs are better than the SB's).

[hagtech]

The LEDs are rather bright

Yeah, I really have to change this.  They are like headbeams across the room at night.  Change R6 and R11 from 3k to 13k.  10k will also work.  Anything that you have leftover in that ballpark.

Can this be used as a digital input as an alternative to USB?

Maybe.  There is a DIN pin that is digital audio in (what you want).  This bypasses the ADC and goes straight to USB.  It is in the data sheet.  I forget the priority of selection.  Anyway, if the software (like Audacity) is set to software loopback, then the data is sent back down USB into the same chip, and the out the DAC.  You can record and playback at same time.  So my hunch is the answer is yes, I just haven't tried it.  The DIN signal needs a good 75 ohm termination, and then maybe a cap to ac couple it.

I don't know what DACs are in the squeezebox.  Probably something on par with the RIPPER?

jh

[Martyn]

Thanks, I'll try the LED mod but I think I'll pass on the S/PDIF - way too complicated for me!

However, I spoke too soon...in setting up the audio software, I think I must have done something that has disabled my Squeezebox (and Windows Media Player, I think). Is there some kind of conflict here, and how can it be resolved?