Recommended USB- SPDIF converter for Metrum Octave


I am looking for a USB to SPDIF converter to use with a Metrum Octave DAC. The primary ones under consideration are:

1. JKSPDIF Mk III ($460)
2. Audiophilleo 2 with Pure Power ($999)
5. Wavelength Audio WaveLink ($900)

These configuration would be computer->USB to SPDIF->Metrum Octave->Rogue Cronus->Harbeth P3ESR

Aside from the obvious cost consideration favoring the JKSPDIF Mk III and Linux support favoring the Audiophilleo, can anyone comment on how the sound compares for any of the units?

I would prefer to hear from Metrum owners and owners of the aforementioned converters, but any other recommendations from owners of similar USB to SPDIF converters using them with the Metrum Octave would be appreciated. The reason for asking before looking further is that I came across these comments from John Darko on the DAR website.

"How does the Audiophilleo compare to the JKSPDIF? I get asked this question a lot. I've tried them both with a wide array of budget DACs over many, many months. There really isn't that much to separate them sonically. I could happily live with either (in the long-term) but I distinctly preferred the JKSPDIF with the Metrum Octave - it seemed to bring out more elasticity and tame some of the glassiness."

"Last week a buddy and I sat down to compare four different DACs. Whilst I won't divulge the conclusions here (this piece is about transports, remember?), we both agreed that the Audiophilleo seemed to overcook the upper-mids on a couple of decoding boxes. This wrinkle was ironed flat with a digital attenuator. The JKSPDIF MK3 seems to be kinder/gentler overall. Perhaps it's the battery technology?"

Can anyway comment as to whether or not they have shared his experience of the Audiophilleo? I believe his experience was without the Pure Power unit, and I was wondering how much of a change that had brought to the table for Audiophilleo owners, understanding that these characterizations are often system dependent.
anonymoustao
If a new Off-Ramp is out of your budget, get a used one. I had an Off-Ramp 4 for a long time and loved it, compared directly to the Audiophilleo it was the better unit.
Anonymoustao, Mac Mini (up sampled via Pure Music) > MeiCord Opal > Apple Time Machine / Airport Extreme > Logitech Squeeze Box Touch > Straightwire Data-Link RCA > Metrum Acoustics Octave.

Since my analog library far exceeds my digital, my systems focus and budget are mainly analog. Until recently I was very dissatisfied with the $2,000 and below digital audio converters (DAC's) I'd auditioned. I took a flyer on the $689. NOS Metrum and finally found listenable digital that suits my taste.

Currently I'm using the Squeeze Box Touch's wireless function so I have no need for a USB converter though the Empirical Audio Syncro Mesh is in the near future. The combination of the Octave, Touch, and the Syncro Mesh is still well below my $2,000 budget for digital.

You should look into this, I don't think you need to go full boat on the Off Ramp 5 to exceed the performance of the other candidates. Also, look into replacing the RCA with a BNC connector on the Octave. SP/DIF connectivity is important.

The uber Off-Ramp with all options sounds more natural, real, and analogue like. It bests any other converter I have tried into the Metrum - and I have tried a lot - Stello, AP2, Wavelenghth, JK, Berkeley - they all fell.

The only issue is cost. If that is an issue get the AP2.

The Metrum and Off-Ramp is a competitor for DAC's in the $3k price bracket - which is what the combo costs. Other DAC's in that price bracket are preferred by some - its not consistent. If you are spending that sort of money listen to others such as a PDX and Tranquility.

Thanks
Bill
Anonymoustao - E-mail me through my Audio Asylum contact info. I have the same user name there. I have an off-line comment for you, if you are interested. Best.