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Looking for Better Jitter Reduction in a DAC

I'm looking to improve the jitter control in my digital setup, which hopefully will create a more analogue presentation. I own a PS Audio PW Memory Transport, which sports a FPGA, and a Nuwave DSD DAC with a scaled-down version of the gate array.

   I have owned a Chord which uses this technology and it was like listening to analogue recordings. I sold it only because it's soundstage was very forward, like sitting in the front row of a concert hall. My current PS Audio setup has wide and deep imaging, as does my Atma-Sphere preamp.
   I have auditioned the Schiit Grundir and it was a bit too fast in the attack and transients, but had the dynamics and deep imaging that I like. So, I guess what I'm looking for is a unit with a laid-back, realistic musical presentation.

The Mytek Digital Stereo192 DSD and Blue Circle DAC are in my price range, but there is no way to audition them.
  So any recommendation and advice is appreciated. DSD preferred, budget is about $1200 used.


128x128lowrider57
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
3,018 posts
 
Sorry guys, I forgot to include some details in my post. My primary need is for Redbook playback thru the PSA transport, computer audio via USB is secondary.

With a PS Audio setup, I am able to use the HDMI interface (I2S) which transfers the clocked signal and data on separate conductors, versus SPDIF which combines all data. The transport stores the data from the CD into a buffer, then clocks it, and sends a jitter-free signal to the DAC where it is reclocked. There is a major difference in performance between my budget PSA DAC and the higher-end DAC's using FPGA.

Yes, I'm very familiar with the Synchromesh. I spoke to Steve and almost bought one, but since I'm not using SPDIF, the I2S technology is already reclocking the data.

I have tried different coax cables (1.5 meter), but the HDMI always sounds best. I believe the Nuwave DAC is the weak link.
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,105 posts
 
Thanks for the critical info, lowrider. If you wish to continue to use I2S from your transport your options for a different DAC are very limited (none?) in that price range AFAIK.

Dave
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
3,018 posts
 
@dlcockrum , the Exogal Comet Plus is definitely on my radar, But I haven't seen one at my price point. Exogal, Wadia, Mytek all use proprietary devices to process and clock the signal; IMO, that is what makes a superior DAC in addition to how the analogue stage is implemented.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57 OP
3,018 posts
 
@dlcockrum , sorry, I missed your post. I'm not married to I2S, it's the best way to transfer data in a PSA setup.
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,105 posts
 
Right re: the DAC’s clock quality, lowrider. Especially with asynchronous USB where the reconstruction of incoming data packets is completely reliant on the DAC’s "clock".

However, Jeff Haagenstad, the CEO of Exogal wrote me that the Comet’s unique use of their FPGA topology actually eliminates its sensitivity to incoming timing and other anomalies addressed by reclockers, galvanic isolation, jitter reducers, etc. when I requested his advice re: adding an ISO Regen. Being one who has to try for myself, I have a ISO Regen and Ultracap LPS-1 power supply somewhere between the local PO and my home right now at the mercy of the PO's decision regarding delivery due to nearby flooding from the recent hurricane.

I will tell you that the Comet Plus is the most sensitive component I have owned to cabling, power cords, and vibration/resonance control. It pays back big dividends for careful selection and investment in these areas.

Be patient and a used Comet Plus will show up at your budget. Lots of DAC-rollers out there. ;)

Dave

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