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Another DAC bits and Hz question

For redbook CDs only, why use a DAC greater than 16/44.1 for two-channel?

Redbook CDs are my only source of music in a two-channel system. I use the Oppo 980H because of its video capability and the fact that it is a multi functional player (DVDs for my children and CDs for me). I don’t stream music and I don’t have a blu ray player. From a music playback perspective, I think I’m pretty safe in saying that the source material is 16 / 44.1.

Part of the reason I ask this question is because of the comparison of older DACs to newer ones. My hypothesis is that yesterday’s top DACs will perform just as well for me (given my source material at a bit perfect rate) as today’s DACs. While this might not be true for everyone, I think it might be true for me. Years ago I had a Monarchy Audio DAC in my system. Foolishly, I sold it. If I don't need USB and 24/96, I think I'd rather purchase an older DAC if sound quality isn't sacrificed.

Is my hypothesis reasonable? Or do the newer DACs extract the musical data better today regardless of the bits and Hz perhaps due to better re-clocking or algorithms?

I posted this question over on computeraudiophile, but I think it was the wrong location since I don't stream music or use a computer as the source.
pgawan2b
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Quad/mono DACs just means that they are using stereo D/A chips, but only one per channel so it used in a "mono" mode, not stereo.

One way to make your existing CD transport sound even better than a new transport is to add the Synchro-Mesh in-between:

http://www.empiricalaudio.com/products/synchro-mesh

This is the best reclocker on the market.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
jwm
908 posts
 
Steve you should put your synchro-mesh converter in the Offramp 5 as well. People could then use it with their cd transports for reclocking and also use it for higher bit downloads. They wouldn't have to buy both boxes.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Jwm - that would be cute, but it would add to the cost, making it more difficult to own an OR5.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
ps68
214 posts
 
The point that Zd542 raises is highly valid. Analog output stage is equally important as the conversion stage itself, and given a true (and tested!) 75ohm input, the DAC output will be as good as anything sold today. Some 80's 16 bit chips are far more musical and energetic than some modern variations exhibiting plenty of detail too, it's all there, just down to the designer not to mess it up with a mediocre output stage.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Just to clarify my last post, I wasn't suggesting that you should buy old equipment over new. I just say consider who is making the unit and make sure the analog portion is just as well thought out as the digital section. I don't see why you can't get great sound either way. I guess you could consider my main CD player an older unit (Wadia 861SE). I like it very much and am very happy with it.

Soon, I am really going to try computer audio (the right way and not just playing around with it like I am now.). That means, of course, that I will be buying some "new" gear. I don't know exactly what I will buy only that it will definately be something that Steve N recommends. He's always very helpful with questions and has a vast knowlege and understanding of CA products. (He also has a 30 day money back gaurantee!!)
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