The Hiface is a device that takes audio from the a computer's USB port & transmits it via SPIF to your DAC. It transports this audio stream in a bit-perfect, untouched manner; no re-clocking or up-sampling involved. The stock version uses the 5V of the USB cable to power itself. The question was if this good sound could be further improved & Kenny's genius was to relieve the device from drawing power from the USB connection, thus creating a pristine signal. The Hiface, after it's stock switching regulators are replaced with ultra-low-noise ones, is placed in an unassuming black box with a Lithium NanoPosphate (LiFePO4) battery + charger. A 9V to 12V DC supply is plugged into it's socket. When the unit is switched on, this acts as the power source for the 5V & 3.3V internal regulators. When the unit is switched off, it powers the internal battery charger. Charging takes place until the battery is again full & then it switches to trickle-charge. Without any charge the battery would last for days. It's a plug-in & forget arrangement. The result is unanimous praise — HiEnd HiFi: "I can comfortably recommend John's mods to the HiFace to anyone interested in getting the best sound from their computer-based source. In a word, it will change your perception of PC as source – and at a very reasonable price." Stereo MoJo: "The stock HiFace is great product on its own, but Kenny's upgrade takes it to a new level of USB-connected audio. The space and resolution around individual instruments & singers improves, which leads to a much better appreciation of the soundstage. Improved depth, width and height are readily apparent. I could detect no downsides to this. There was no trace of any kind of glare or harshness & listening fatigue never set in. Amazing!"
Direct from Mr.K in Ireland, it costs €270, except that sales have been temporarily suspended due to demand. This one's available for $300 and I'll throw in the required 12vDC power source plus an RCA adapter for it's superior BNC output, although you may opt to employ a dedicated BNC or BNC/RCA cable depending on the inputs of your DAC. Shipping extra.
