[Tyson]

OK, I have a limited budget.  Right now I have a CAPS v2 server I'm building out, and I am running a miniDSP 4x10 as my DAC, preamp, and electronic crossover.  I only have digital sources - the CAPS server, and my Playstation 3 for bluray and Netflix. 

I have an Empirical Audio Off-Ramp 3 for my USB-SPDIF converter right now, feeding the miniDSP.  Now, with the CAPS server, should I keep the Off-Ramp and buy the SOtM USB card, which cleans up the USB power, or should I keep the stock USB cards and sell my Off-Ramp 3 to finance a Pace Car purchase?

I'm leaning toward the Pace Car, if for no other reason than I can also plug my PS3 into it and get better sound for movies and netflix as well. 

Any and all replies are welcome!

[firedog]

I think the SOtM card will make an improvement to any USB device you hook up to it, as it is basically about superior regulators and isolation from the noise in your computer. My 2 cents: if you're using a USB out, get the SOtM.

The Pace Car USB is a "jack of all trades" for reclocking and hookup, but unless you are using it in pure USB mode (connected to USB out of your server/source), it can need a special setup by Steve to work for you. It does need USB drivers loaded on your computer source. I suggest you write Steve and explain what you want to do. The Pace Car in USB mode costs $1650, so the price differences here are huge.

I suggest you write Steve and explain what you want to do. He will be happy to tell you which of his devices is best for your needs. Acc'd to Steve's forum, the Pace Car is going out of production soon, BTW.