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    The Computer Audiophile

    Musical Fidelity M1DAC, M1HPA, and V-Link Async USB Converter Review

    mufi-logo.pngThe year was 2005. I had just sold my first "real" audio system as I moved into an apartment before beginning law school. My Nelson Pass designed Adcom GFP-750, GFA-5802 and GCD-750 and B&W Nautilus 802 loudspeakers were of little use to me with neighbors inches away on all sides. Needing to scratch the audiophile itch I purchased a Lexicon RT-10 universal disc player, Musical Fidelity X-CAN v<sup>3</sup> and X-PSU v<sup>3</sup>, Sennheiser HD600s, and Grado RS-1 headphones. This small relatively inexpensive system was my first introduction to United Kingdom based Musical Fidelity. I enjoyed the whole system tremendously until I replaced it with a MacBook Pro and Benchmark DAC1 USB a couple years later. Near the end of 2010 the new Musical Fidelity North American distributor reintroduced me to the brand and sent the M1DAC, M1HPA, and V-Link here for review. These two M Series components combined with the V-Link asynchronous USB to S/PDIF converter are far better than my original X-v<sup>3</sup> Series system and in the same league as the one-piece powerhouses from Benchmark, Grace Design, and Lavry Engineering. A great feature of the Musical Fidelity system, that none of the aforementioned single units offer, is its modular approach separating the DAC, headphone pre/amplifier, and the asynchronous USB to S/PDIF converter. This flexibility combined with very good sound at a reasonable price should place these components on many reader's audition lists.

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    <b>The Pieces</b>

     

     

     

    <b>A</b>. M1DAC Digital to Analog Converter (MSRP $699)

     

    <img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/M1DAC-paragraph.jpg" style="padding: 5pt 10pt 5pt 5pt;" align="left">Digital to analog conversion is nothing new to Musical Fidelity. The company has been designing and manufacturing DACs for 23 years. The new M1DAC is the newest member of the Musical Fidelity family. The ½ width M1DAC chassis has a plethora of digital inputs plus both balanced XLR and single ended RCA analog outputs. As every Computer Audiophile reader knows these features alone have nothing to do with sound quality but are a good start to a versatile system. The digital inputs consists of AES/EBU (XLR), electrical S/PDIF (Coaxial RCA), optical S/PDIF (TosLink), and USB. Sample rate support on these inputs is not equivalent across the board. The TosLink S/PDIF input supports music from 16 bit / 32 kHz up through 24 bit / 96 kHz while the built-in Adaptive USB input only supports 16 bit music from 32 kHz to 48 kHz. A nice feature of this USB input is its ability to support audio coming from an iPad using the iPad's <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/camera-kit.jpg" class="thickbox" rel="ipad-cam-conn">camera connector kit</a> and a USB cable. Audio input via AES/EBU and Coaxial S/PDIF is supported at all sample rates from 16 bit / 32 kHz through 24 bit / 192 kHz. Astute readers will notice the M1DAC does not have a 176.4 kHz indicator on the front panel. In the Usage Notes section below there are more details about 24/176.4 playback through the M1DAC. This sample rate support talk gives rise to the question of what "support" for a sample rate actually means, especially when the M1DAC upsamples all incoming audio to 24/192. In this case "support" means the DAC will lock on to the incoming digital signal, upsample it to 24/192 (ASRC), and convert it to an audible analog signal. Support for all relevant resolutions is very nice when using a playlist that contains music from 16/44.1 to 24/192. Without high frequency support the music simply stops. Using the M1DAC all playlists roll right on through from start to finish. Upsampling in the M1DAC is carried out through Asynchronous Sample Rate Conversion (ASRC). This is not the same as asynchronous USB transfer mode that is supported by the Musical Fidelity V-Link. Musical Fidelity's Antony Michaelson is a strong believer in ASRC and has done a very nice job of implementing this on the M1DAC.

     

     

     

    The front panel of the M1DAC has a nice incoming sample rate indicator. One beauty of this indicator is it enables the user to identify if his computer is outputting the sample rate of the music he is playing. This may sound trivial, but a massive number of audiophiles are sending their music through software sample rate conversion accidentally. Without an incoming sample rate indicator these users have no clue if something is amiss before the audio even leaves their computers. A sample rate indicator is certainly not a guarantee that one's music is entering the DAC bit transparently. Rather it's a step in the right direction that can identify at least one of the known issues associated with computer playback.

     

     

     

    Powering the M1DAC is a high quality linear power supply with choke filtration on the input. This conditions the signal and increases overall performance. The M1DAC houses an IEC 60320 C14 male power inlet that accepts an IEC 60320 C13 female connector (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_connector#C13_and_C14_connectors">example</a>)<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_connector#C13_and_C14_connectors"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a>. In other words the M1DAC uses a regular detachable power cable that can interchanged with any number of high-end or low-end cables should the user so chose.

     

     

     

    USB Input on M1DAC

    Audio Class Specific Audio Data Format

    Audio Stream Format Type Desc.

    <ul>

    <li>Format Type: 1 PCM</li>

    <li>Number Of Channels: 2 <b>STEREO</b></li>

    <li>Sub Frame Size: 2</li>

    <li>Bit Resolution: <b>16</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency Type: 0x03 (Discrete)</li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>32000 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>44100 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>48000 Hz</b></li>

    Endpoint 0x02 - Isochronous Output

    <li>Address: 0x02 (OUT)</li>

    <li>Attributes: 0x09 (Isochronous <b>adaptive</b> data endpoint)</li>

    <li>Max Packet Size: 192</li>

    <li>Polling Interval: 1 ms</li>

    </ul>

     

     

     

     

     

    <center><a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-front-sample.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-front-sample-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-front.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-front-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-left-front.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-left-front-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-rear-angle.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-rear-angle-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-rear.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-rear-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-right-front.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1DAC"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/dac/dac-right-front-thumb.png"></a></center>  

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    <b>B</b>. M1HPA Headphone Amplifier (MSRP $799)

     

     

     

    <img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-paragraph.jpg" style="padding: 5pt 10pt 5pt 5pt;" align="left">The new M1HPA pure Class A headphone amplifier from Musical Fidelity is sophisticatedly simple and understated. The M1HPA resides in the same ½ width sized chassis as the M1DAC. The unit is more than a headphone amplifier but not a jack of all trades / master of none. First let me get one gripe out of the way. The M1HPA has an Adaptive USB input identical to the M1DAC. This input on both units is equally underwhelming in terms of performance. Using the V-Link or a different input on the M1DAC solves this issue entirely.

     

     

     

    Readers who attended CES this month in Las Vegas may have seen the Musical Fidelity pure Class A <a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/AMS-Series/AMS100/AMS100.asp">AMS100</a><a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/AMS-Series/AMS100/AMS100.asp"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a> stereo amplifier paired with the Verity Audio Lohengrin II loudspeakers. This amp is a monster that sounds as good as it looks. In an adjacent room five steps away Musical Fidelity displayed the M1HPA and M1DAC with V-Link. The two systems couldn't <u>appear</u> more antithetical in size, cost, and performance. Fortunately size and cost are not directly proportional to performance. The 7.5 lbs. M1HPA headphone amp contains the same pure Class A technology that's in the 240 lbs. AMS100 stereo amp. The performance benefit of this pure Class A circuitry is terrific whether connected to $80,000 loudspeakers or my pair of Sennheiser HD600 headphones. The often overlooked output impedance of the M1HPA is below a single ohm. This allows the unit to drive nearly any headphone with excellent linearity and low distortion. According to Musical Fidelity a majority of headphone amplifiers have a much higher output impedance subjecting them to less linearity and greater distortion.

     

     

     

    In addition to the headphone amplifier capability the M1HPA can operate as a very nice preamplifier. Sophisticated simplicity repeatedly comes to mind when using this unit. A single pair of RCA analog line in, line out, and pre outs contributes to the understated look of the M1HPA. Readers should not let this lack of input options fool them into thinking this unit isn't capable of high performance. More inputs can equal more issues. Many computer audiophiles only have one analog source anyway and that's the analog feed from a DAC. In addition to using the headphone amp on the M1HPA I setup the unit as the preamp in my main system. I connected the <i>d</i>CS Debussy analog output to the analog input of the M1HPA and the M1HPA's pre out to my McIntosh MC275 amplifier. The M1HPA fit in this system wonderfully without adding easily audible coloration. My only wish was for a remote volume control. I also use the complete Musical Fidelity system, M1DAC, M1HPA, and V-Link, paired with my amplifier and loudspeakers with much success. Well design, high performing components don't have to cost an arm and a leg. Musical Fidelity's M Series with V-Link is one great example.

     

     

     

    USB Input on M1HPA

    Audio Stream Format Type Desc.

    <ul>

    <li>Format Type: 1 PCM</li>

    <li>Number Of Channels: 2 <b>STEREO</b></li>

    <li>Sub Frame Size: 2</li>

    <li>Bit Resolution: <b>16</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency Type: 0x03 (Discrete)</li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>32000 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>44100 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>48000 Hz</b></li>

    Endpoint 0x02 - Isochronous Output

    <li>Address: 0x02 (OUT)</li>

    <li>Attributes: 0x09 (Isochronous <b>adaptive</b> data endpoint)</li>

    <li>Max Packet Size: 192</li>

    <li>Polling Interval: 1 ms</li>

    </ul>

     

     

     

     

     

    <center><a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front-angle.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1HPA"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front-angle-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front-vol.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1HPA"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front-vol-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1HPA"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-front-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-rear-angle.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1HPA"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-rear-angle-thumb.png"></a>   <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-rear.png" class="thickbox" rel="M1HPA"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/amp/M1HPA-rear-thumb.png"></a></center>  

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    <b>C</b>. V-Link Asynchronous USB to S/PDIF converter (MSRP $169)

     

    <img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/v-link/v-link-paragraph.jpg" style="padding: 5pt 10pt 5pt 5pt;" align="left">Musical Fidelity's new V-Link asynchronous USB to S/PDIF converter is the newest product in the V Series lineup. I've long been a fan of MF's small size, small price, large performance products and the V-Link is no exception. In fact it's my favorite small component Musical Fidelity has ever made. The V-Link is designed to connect a computer with an available USB port to a digital to analog converter with an available electrical Coaxial S/PDIF or optical TosLink input. The unit is then powered by the computer's USB interface. There are other products on the market that transfer music from a USB port to an S/PDIF port but the pool of devices that use asynchronous USB transfer mode, support up through 24 bit / 96 kHz high resolution music, don't require additional software installation, and cost as little as $169 is currently very small.

     

     

     

    The V-Link asynchronous design is based on the TAS1020B USB controller. This in-house, ground-up converter design and specific async USB implementation are exclusive to Musical Fidelity. The V-Link was designed with a high precision clock that sits nearly on top of the critical internal components. Two fixed oscillators, one for rates based on 44.1 kHz and the other for rates based on 48 kHz is also the hallmark of a smart design. MF set its sights on designing this converter "right" and hit its target dead center. The V-Link requires absolutely no manual software or device driver installation. This is a big deal. No matter how often manufacturers suggest that software installation isn't an issue, they never seem to provide evidence supporting that claim. A few minutes spent browsing the Computer Audiophile forum should provide enough information to the contrary. Every audio device I know of that requires software installation to function has had issues with that software. Period. I'll even provide evidence so readers can check for themselves. Simply browse the websites of any manufacturer that offers a product requiring software/device drivers. Look for the software download section or for information about obtaining this software. Take note of how many updates there have been to each software package. There is a reason for new software versions beyond 1.0. If something isn't broke don't fix it. If something is broke …

     

     

     

    In previous product reviews and forum comments I've discussed the importance of galvanic isolation<sup>[1]</sup> between the computer and audio system. Without this isolation audio systems are prone to significant amounts of electrical garbage flowing from a commodity powered computer. Galvanic isolation is not a 100% must have feature of a converter, but purchasing a unit without this <u>may</u> be problematic in some systems. The new V-Link is somewhat "ambidextrous" when it comes to isolation from a computer. The electrical Coaxial S/PDIF output is not isolated and the optical TosLink S/PDIF output is isolated by the nature of the optical connection. Like the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Burger_King">Creepy King</a><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Burger_King"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a> says, "Have it your way." Isolated or not each user can identify the connection type that works best in his system.

     

    USB Input on V-Link

    Audio Class Specific Audio Data Format

    Audio Stream Format Type Desc.

    <ul>

    <li> Format Type: 1 PCM</li>

    <li>Number Of Channels: 2 <b>STEREO</b></li>

    <li>Sub Frame Size: 3</li>

    <li>Bit Resolution: <b>24</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency Type: 0x05 (Discrete)</li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>32000 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>44100 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>48000 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b> 88200 Hz</b></li>

    <li>Sample Frequency: <b>96000 Hz</b></li>

    Endpoint 0x01 - Isochronous Output

    <li>Address: 0x01 (OUT)</li>

    <li>Attributes: 0x05 (Isochronous <b>asynchronous</b> data endpoint)</li>

    <li>Max Packet Size: 582</li>

    <li>Polling Interval: 1 ms</li>

    </ul>

     

     

     

     

    1. Galvanic isolation is the principle of isolating functional sections of electrical systems preventing the moving of charge-carrying particles from one section to another, i.e. there is no electric current flowing directly from one section to the next. Energy and/or information can still be exchanged between the sections by other means, e.g. capacitance, induction, electromagnetic waves, optical, acoustic, or mechanical means. Galvanic isolation is used in situations where two or more electric circuits must communicate, but their grounds may be at different potentials. It is an effective method of breaking ground loops by preventing unwanted current from traveling between two units sharing a ground conductor. Galvanic isolation is also used for safety considerations, preventing accidental current from reaching the ground (the building floor) through a person's body.</font>

    <FONT SIZE="-2">Source - <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galvanic_isolation">Wikipedia</a><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galvanic_isolation"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a>

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    <b>Usage Notes and Sound Quality</b>

     

    <a href="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/v-link/v-link.png" class="thickbox" rel="V-Link"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/graphics/2011/0121/v-link/v-link-thumb.png" style="padding: 5pt 10pt 5pt 5pt;" align="left"></a>Most of the review period I used a pair of Sennheiser HD600 headphones connected to the M1HPA. The V-Link connected my computer to the M1DAC which connected to the M1HPA via single ended Kimber Select RCA cables. This combination proved really resolving and pleasurable when listening over long periods. Music servers used were 1) MacBook Pro (5,5) running OS X 10.6.6 and Amarra 2.1.1 and 2) MacBook Pro (5,5) running Windows 7 Ultimate Edition 64-bit and J River 15. All music was stored locally on an OCZ Vertex Turbo Solid State Drive (SSD). I used a single AudioQuest Diamond USB cable throughout the entire review period. Using OS X and Amarra 2.1.1 I had no issues connecting to or playing music of all supported sample rates through the V-Link. In Windows 7 the best J River configuration was with the WASAPI - Event Style output mode and the hardware buffer set to 100 milliseconds. I was unsuccessful using Kernel Streaming with the V-Link.

     

     

     

    Over 90% of my listening was done via the V-Link's electrical Coaxial S/PDIF connection as opposed to optical TosLink S/PDIF. Using my MacBook Pro I heard no negative effects without the galvanic isolation an optical connection would have provided. I usually don't switch back and forth quickly between components or inputs on a component when conducting listening tests but the simplicity of the dual output V-Link and front panel M1DAC input switching button sucked me into the A/B game. The overall sound of the complete Musical Fidelity system was very good, especially for a three component total of $1,667. The sound when using the optical connection seemed a bit smoother compared to the electrical S/PDIF interface. However, I had a difficult time identifying the specific input whence conducting a blind A/B listening test. This is a good thing because the sonic impact of the TosLInk interface is usually detrimental because of much higher jitter than a coaxial connection. Users requiring the galvanic isolation provided by an optical connection shouldn't fear the V-Link's optical output combined with the M1DAC's optical input. Musical Fidelity's Asynchronous Sample Rate Conversion plays a major role in bringing the sound of both S/PDIF interfaces to nearly identical levels. Comparing the Musical Fidelity modular system to my Benchmark DAC1 PRE the major sonic difference is the Benchmark is much more forward and in one's face while the MF system is much more laid back and delicate sounding. I'm really looking forward to comparing the new Grace Design M903 to both the Benchmark and Musical Fidelity components. This is a very competitive segment of the market where wonderful sound can be had for a very reasonable price.

     

     

     

    At CES this year Musical Fidelity put on a very revealing demonstration of the V-Link. First music was played directly from a MacBook Pro to the input of the M1DAC and out to the rest of the system. Then the V-Link asynchronous USB converter was inserted and the same music played for the audience. It was pretty easy to hear how much improved the sound was when the V-Link was in place. The whole image tightened up immediately with the V-Link. I sat through the demo one additional time as I wanted to see the reaction of two people from a very large online retailer. These two people identified the same benefits I identified in the previous demo. Listening a second time for me was equally enjoyable and more revealing of the built-in M1DAC's shortcomings. Without the V-Link in place the sound was very sloppy, all over the place with no focus. This was easier to identify because I had previously heard how much better the V-Link can make the M1DAC sound. LIstening to the adaptive input followed by the much better asynchronous input then the adaptive input one more time made it much easier to recognize how subpar the adaptive USB interface can sound. The V-Link's superior asynchronous USB interface plays a major role in the sound quality of this Musical Fidelity system.

     

     

     

    More on 24/176.4 playback. During the review period I talked to John Quick the Musical Fidelity distributor for North America who is no stranger to computer audio. We've often discussed the merits of different USB approaches, FireWire, AES/EBU etcetera. John assured me the M1DAC fully supports playback of 24/176.4 even though there is no light on the front panel for this frequency. I'm satisfied that this is really the truth as I sent a couple Reference Recordings 24/176.4 HRx tracks to the M1DAC's coaxial input and the DAC did play each track without a hiccup. During playback the 24/192 light did illuminate, but considering the 24/176.4 input is upsampled to 24/192 at the DAC I'm not sure this light was meaningful. As long as the M1DAC locks on to the incoming signal all audio appears to be treated the same. On a similar note when I sent 24/192 tracks to the coaxial input the Upsampling indicator still illuminated. John Quick relayed to me that the sample rate converter circuit does not perform upsampling on 24/192 material but the playback of these high resolution tracks, "Will benefit from the Asynchronous Sample Rate Converter's break in clocking between the computer and the M1DAC."

     

     

     

    One final note: I'm still searching for that elusive 16 bit / 32 kHz content so I can illuminate the 32 kHz indicator on the M1DAC :~)

     

     

     

     

     

    <b>Conclusion</b>

     

    It has been nearly six years since I enjoyed a Musical Fidelity system as much as the M1DAC ($699), M1HPA ($799), and V-Link ($169). My old X-v<sup>3</sup> Series was great back in the day, but really no comparison to the this M / V system I've been using for a couple months. Musical Fidelity's Antony Michaelson has managed to squeeze every last ounce of engineering possible into the ½ width M Series chassis and the even smaller V-Link. At the same time the company has managed to keep the price down to a very reasonable $1,667 for the complete system. Plus, one doesn't even have to buy all three pieces to start a nice Musical Fidelity system or add to an existing audio system. The modular approach provides consumers with options. It's hard to argue against options. In an industry with six and seven figure audio systems it's hard to believe three zeros can be removed from the end of the price tag and still allow someone to put together a really good system. I applaud Musical Fidelity for producing such good sound at such good prices. I can easily recommend all three Musical Fidelity pieces and sleep very sound at night.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Product Information

     

     

    <ul>

    <li>Price - M1DAC ($699), M1HPA ($799), V-Link ($169)</li>

    <li> M1DAC Product Page - <a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/M1-Series/M1DAC/M1DAC.asp">Link</a><a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/M1-Series/M1DAC/M1DAC.asp"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a></li>

    <li> M1DAC Manual - <a href="http://files.computeraudiophile.com/2011/0121/M1DAC-manual.pdf">PDF Link</a></li>

    <li> M1HPA Product Page - <a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/M1-Series/M1HPA/M1HPA.asp">Link</a><a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/M1-Series/M1HPA/M1HPA.asp"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a></li>

    <li> M1HPA Manual - <a href="http://files.computeraudiophile.com/2011/0121/M1HPA-manual.pdf">PDF Link</a></li>

    <li>V-Link Product Page - <a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/V-Series/V-Series.asp">Link</a><a href="http://www.musicalfidelity.com/products/V-Series/V-Series.asp"><img src="http://images.computeraudiophile.com/ca/icons/ex.png" style="padding: 0pt 0pt 0pt 3pt;" alt="link"></img></a></li>

    </ul>

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Associated Equipment:

     

     

     

    <a href="http://files.computeraudiophile.com/2010/0418/Brochure_Fidelio.pdf">Verity Audio Fidelio loudspeakers</a>, <a href="http://www.mcintoshlabs.com/products/mcintosh-mc275-vacuum-tube-power-amplifier.asp">McIntosh MC275 amplifier</a>, <a href="http://www.richardgrayspowercompany.com/products.aspx?type=accessories">Richard Gray's Power Company High Tension Wires</a>, <a href="http://www.berkeleyaudiodesign.com/">Berkeley Audio Design Alpha DAC</a>, <a href="http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/Computer-Audiophile-Pocket-Server-CAPS">C.A.P.S. server</a>, <a href="http://www.dcsltd.co.uk/product/debussy-dac"><i>d</i>CS Debussy DAC</a>, <a href="http://www.audioquest.com">AudioQuest Diamond USB Cable</a>, <a href="http://www.kimber.com/products/interconnects/digital/usb/bbus/ag/">Kimber USB Ag</a>, <a href="http://www.benchmarkmedia.com/system1/digital-analog-converter/dac1-pre">Benchmark DAC1 PRE</a>, <a href="http://www.kimber.com/products/interconnects/analog/select/singleended/ks1011/">Kimber Select KS1011 Analog Cables</a>, <a href="http://www.kimber.com/products/interconnects/digital/select/ks2020/">Kimber Select KS2020 Digital Cable</a>, <a href="http://www.kimber.com/products/loudspeakercables/monocle/x/">Kimber Monocle X Loudspeaker Cable</a>, <a href="http://usa.asus.com/product.aspx?P_ID=SPZfqXDJvadmFPoh&templete=2">ASUS Xonar HDAV 1.3 Slim</a>, <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipad/">Apple iPad</a>, <a href="http://www.amarraaudio.com/">Sonic Studio's Amarra</a>.




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    The darn thing still sounds great to me!<br />

    <br />

    And Chris, I keep buying things you review and recommend. Best of all, I enjoy them a whole lot! <br />

    <br />

    My wife on the other hand, thinks you should review more inexpensive items. Okay, she thinks you should review <i>only</i> inexpensive items for a few months. Like I said, I keep buying things you give good reviews to! (grin) <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

    <br />

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    Hi all,<br />

    <br />

    A question from a non-tech head (I have searched a number of the articles and comments here, but have mainly succeeded in confusing myself)... <br />

    <br />

    I am currently running an old winXP laptop with itunes, feeding an airport express via ethernet that then feeds a PS Audio Digital Link 3. The combo of my network card and the airport express causes regular dropout problems. If I substituted the V-Link in for the airport express, will the V-Link control the usb output of the laptop to give bitperfect sound, or would I still need to switch to J River (or similar)?<br />

    <br />

    Thanks in advance (and apologies if i have missed an obvious explanation of this).<br />

    <br />

    Douglas

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    <em>"There is only a single dedicated oscillator whose frequency is fixed to 44.1 or 48k based on what the USB receiver circuit sees; I must’ve missed this detail in reviewing your copy of the review in January"</em><br />

    <br />

    So is it a fixed oscillator, or does it change depending on what the USB receiver sees? Seams like the statement from MF can't make it's mind up. <br />

    <br />

    Eloise<br />

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    If you are actually getting network drop outs on a rig <i>that</i> simple, the computer has a serious processor or memory lock issue. <br />

    <br />

    Worse, I think you will experience even worse dropout with USB than with network commuications, as USB is actually a bit more processor intensive than Ethernet comms. <br />

    <br />

    I would seriously look at a bit more powerful laptop or a small PC, or a netbook with a N445 dual core Atom in it. You will also get Windows 7 that way, which is (arguably to some) a bit better platform than XP. <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    Thanks Paul - Always good to have someone looking from a different angle. <br />

    <br />

    The 'dropouts' are not during playback, but simply that the laptop can't find the airport express on wakeup, and takes a bit of fiddling to remedy. Otherwise, the laptop seems fine if I use it without the airport express (not for music) ie. if I use a different ethernet or wireless connection etc.<br />

    <br />

    But I think you're right - time for a new computer. Am I correct in assuming that a laptop running itunes on win7 will need something like the V-Link?<br />

    <br />

    Regards, Douglas

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    Sorry, I misunderstood, thinking the dropouts were during playback. Loosing the airport connection during sleep is common, and not being able to find it again is pretty common on XP after sleep - at least in my experience. Annoying, but the best solution to that is to move up to Windows 7. <br />

    <br />

    The new laptop does not even need an audio card to stream to the Airport Express devices. To play locally, almost every laptop today has a audio out port, though the sound quality may be less than impressive through that port. <br />

    <br />

    Assuming there are no digital ports on the laptop, adding a V-LINK by itself will not enable you to play iTunes (or any other player) back locally. You will need a DAC for that, and some of the best ones have Async USB connections already built in. <br />

    <br />

    The Wavelength PROTON for example, is about $1000, but has top quality USB connectivity built right in. <br />

    <br />

    My current favorite low cost arrangements are: <br />

    <br />

    USB ->V-LInk -> Arcam rDac -> NAD BEE326<br />

    <br />

    and<br />

    <br />

    USB -V=Link -> NAD T747<br />

    <br />

    Hope that helps a bit. <br />

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    Thanks again Paul.<br />

    <br />

    I do have a dac (PS Audio Digital Link 3). Ideally, I would like to get rid of the airport express, and I thought the V-Link would provide a cost-effective alternative whilst also giving better sound. When I originally put this system together a couple of years ago, everything I read here highlighted that a direct usb link from laptop to dac would compromise sound quality as windows messed around with the output through the usb, and this was the reason for using the airport express. So does the V-link eliminate the problem of windows messing up the digital output?<br />

    <br />

    I have also realised that i have an Atom N280 based netbook lying around, that I think I could upgrade to Win7. Do you think that this running itunes into the V-Link / PS Audio combo would work well?<br />

    <br />

    Regards, Douglas

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    Or are you using it to get sound from the computer? <br />

    <br />

    If the later, getting sound locally from the computer, then quite definitely - even without changing a thing, I believe <br />

    <br />

    <i>Windows XP -> USB ->V-LInk -> Optical | RCA Coax -> PS Digital LInk 3 -> Amp/Speakers </i><br />

    <br />

    will give you a nice boost in your sound quality. Even better if you replace Windows XP with Windows 7 and follow the simple instructions available here to get bit perfect output from iTunes. <br />

    <br />

    I think the Atom machine might work nicely, but I only have experience with the dual core version. I do not know how a single core will perform, but I would expect it to do pretty well. <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    You also need a good quality USB and RCA or Optical cable. <br />

    <br />

    It does not have to be fancy or crazy expensive, but USB cables that come with printers and Radio Shack RCA audio cables will just not do. <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    The airport express is used only to get the digital output from the laptop to the dac. <br />

    <br />

    This is exactly the answer I was looking for! I'll look at getting the V-Link first, and see how that goes. Next step will be to upgrade the netbook to win7, and see how that goes. <br />

    <br />

    I've got a decent optical cable already, and will get a good usb cable when i get the V-Link. <br />

    <br />

    Thanks again! <br />

    Douglas

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    Is there a for sale forum? Cause I'm returning my V-link to amazon but I've got a lifatec glass optical I no longer need...

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    <cite>So is it a fixed oscillator, or does it change depending on what the USB receiver sees? Seams like the statement from MF can't make it's mind up.</cite><br />

    <br />

    As I said before, I'd think it is single component with two frequencies. Nothing special in having something like that, saves some board space.<br />

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    Paul writes:<br />

    <br />

    <i>You also need a good quality USB and RCA or Optical cable.</i> <br />

    <br />

    <i>It does not have to be fancy or crazy expensive, but USB cables that come with printers and Radio Shack RCA audio cables will just not do.</i><br />

    <br />

    I've got a V-Link connected to a MacBook Pro via an Audioquest Emerald USB cable. Thought of scrounging around in the house or even purchasing a very cheap cable just to compare with the Emerald, in order to see whether the V-Link will minimize differences (and thus whether a better cable than the Emerald at some point would be value for money).<br />

    <br />

    Sounds like you've already done such a comparison?

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    @Jud,<br />

    <br />

    No offence meant to Paul here, but you really should try cable comparisons yourself. So much depends on partnering equipment (and your perceptions) that you may find different results.<br />

    <br />

    Eloise

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    Eloise the Audio_ELF writes:<br />

    <br />

    <i>No offence meant to Paul here, but you really should try cable comparisons yourself.</i><br />

    <br />

    Hah! I know you meant to offend Paul.... ;-)<br />

    <br />

    But seriously, folks - yes, of course I intend to compare (and decide) for myself, but I'm always curious to read what others think. After all, we *are* posting these messages to a public forum rather than keeping them to ourselves, eh?

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    Hi!<br />

    <br />

    I bought the V-Link and I rate its sound quality really very high. It's only downside is the low price ;-)<br />

    I am using Purist Audio Design Aqueous Anniversary for digital-out, and I am testing Wireworld Startlight USB, which is much better than a standard USB cable. But I want to try the Silver Starlight - it is not too expensive.<br />

    <br />

    My system is Atom 330 and Win7-64 and J.River15<br />

    <br />

    reg,<br />

    Bernhard

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    I think it's only downside is that it doesn do 4x sample rates. JA gave it a good review in Stereophile. Someone needs to compare it to the Berkeley Audio Alpha USB at 2x sample rates.

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    But a $1.99 USB cable on the V-Link here will cause dropouts. Even a very modest upgrade, such as to a Belkin $28 USB cable, eliminates them entirely. <br />

    <br />

    (Note: I also had dropouts from a USB port unable to competently power the V-Link. Different issue.) <br />

    <br />

    In other words, I would not recommend buying your cables at the local Dollar Store, even though they carry 'em in there. :) <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    And you notice I avoided specific recommendations. :) <br />

    <br />

    But I do think the $0.03 cables on Amazon, or the $1 cables at the local Dollar Store are pretty much just trouble asking to happen. <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    Yes, no 4x sample rate. Actually, J.River is downsampling my very rare 4x files. So I do not know, that I'm missing.<br />

    We will see ...<br />

    <br />

    :-)

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    <i>"saves some board space"<br />

    </i><br />

    <br />

    No need to save board space. It's practically empty. And using mostly through-hole parts (see Stereophile April issue page 163).<br />

    <br />

    Most likely saves money.

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    Great review full of detail.<br />

    <br />

    I have been looking at the V link to purchase for a while now so a good review like this one can confirm things a little better for me, but reviews of the V link are few and far between but hear in sunny Wales UK(slight white lie)there is a site selling it for £85 pounds.<br />

    <br />

    I just wanted to make this point I have an MF M1 DAC and I love it to bits really good sounstage, the USB connection on its own sounds pretty good so with a quality USB (£20) and the V link Its should be a decent purchace.<br />

    <br />

    At the Moment I have the M1 DAC linked to my computer via a ASUS Essence sound card via ATLAS Coaxil cable and the sound is exellent so my question is this would a V link good quality USB to improve the sound or would it be on the same level cheers Clive (howlingfeedback).

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    Your milage may vary of course, and I have a much lower quality sound card in the PC. <br />

    <br />

    At that, the RealTek sound card in the PC sounds pretty good all by itself, connected via coaxial. <br />

    <br />

    Putting the V-Link in improves the already good sound quite a bit for me. <br />

    <br />

    <br />

    -Paul<br />

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    I never tried the Asus Essence.<br />

    <br />

    What I can say: The V-Link offers real High-End SQ. The V-Link can beat !really! expensive CD-drives.<br />

    The ASUS Xonar Essence can deliver 24bit/192kHz, but it does not mean, that its SQ is higher than the SQ of a 24/96 V-Link.<br />

    <br />

    The ASUS and the V-Link share the same price, I would not hesitate and purchase the V-Link.<br />

    <br />

    Maybe you can get a demo of the V-Link in a top-notch system. It sounds so relaxed, open, clean, dynamic & at the same time there is no sharpness, ...<br />

    The tonal balance is very good, too.<br />

    But: The sound is very straight, it means, bad recordings will not sound better, than they are.<br />

    <br />

    I'm blown away!

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