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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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    Clive,<br />

    <br />

    As I mentioned before, there's also a review in April Stereophile. JA gave it a great review. He said that he would have a hard time recommending other more expensive USB converters. I imagine it's well worth checking out before you buy anything else.

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    Plenty of advise offered and well apriciated, in answer to some of replys its not a choice for me between Essence and V link as I mentioned hear in Blighty I found A website with 14 day return for £85 (thanks for the reminder Eloise) for the V link so if its on a par with the Essence or slightly less then its not a fortune lost.<br />

    <br />

    But you pay your money you take a chance even though you can get plenty of good advise and read tons of reviews the sound might not suit you're ears.<br />

    <br />

    For example a bought a sqeezebox duet and although I read positive stuff I was disapointed with the sound although not dreadfull the punch and power is not there, in comparison to ASUS via Coaxil to Hi FI.<br />

    <br />

    But I will take a chance on the V Link as having had the M1 DAC the quality of Musical Fidelity is clear.<br />

    <br />

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    I've been using a Hiface for about a year and recently decided to try a V-Link. While either one is a clearly audible improvement from USB directly into my DAC, I can't really say that one is superior to the other. I would be interested in the opinions of others with maybe more discriminating ears. I Haven't tried the bridge<br />

    <br />

    Macmini->V-Link->Bryston BDA1->Mcintosh MA6500->Harbeth M 40.1

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    Helpful review. I purchased the V-link (in part due to your review) for my humble budget DacMagic kit and it has transformed the SQ to a new level. Asynchrony is a must in PC based Audio.<br />

    <br />

    Now I'm looking to improve my system. Is the M1DAC not worthy to be included in the C.A.S.H List? If not, can you elaborate on it's weaknesses?<br />

    <br />

    I just don't want to buy a DAC that is too expensive, but it needs to be a tangible step forward from the DacMagic. Any advice would be helpful.<br />

    <br />

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    Hey Raj.<br />

    <br />

    I'm in a similar position to you and I'm not sure whether to purchase the V-Link or not.<br />

    <br />

    I'm running a mac mini and using the optical out of the mini going into the Dacmagic (toslink). Its sounds nice as is it so I'm a bit dubious as to whether the V-Link will make much of a difference.<br />

    <br />

    I'm wondering are you running a Mac or a PC? <br />

    <br />

    What sort of sound differences do you hear using the V-Link?<br />

    <br />

    What connection are you using - Toslink or SPDIF?<br />

    <br />

    Cheers.

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    Hello John_Foxx_Fan,<br />

    <br />

    The V-link is used with my standard PC and is a must as far as the DacMagic goes. Better timing, more solid stereo image. Generally a much more accurate sound. Absolute bargain. Gets the best out of your DAC. Don't expect it to drastically change the character of your system, that's not it's job. But you will receive more insight and the musical message will be much more cohesive. Over longer listening periods I noticed my song choices changed and the range and types of music I listen to has increased. All signs of a good Hifi upgrade, all for £95 - BARGAIN!<br />

    <br />

    I recently tested the M1DAC in my system against the DacMagic, both with the V-link attached and it's just not worth buying if you've got the DacMagic. However, M1DAC does have a more heavier and weighty sound, and is cleaner. It ticks all the boxes for a good hifi sound. But it lacks the energy and pace of the DacMagic. M1DAC over longer listening tests is a yawn and has a lumbering sound compared to the DacMagic, which is lighter, more agile and generally more engaging.<br />

    <br />

    I have tested both V-Link and M1DAC in my brothers PC system also, he has custom built his DAC, the same observations as above were experienced.<br />

    <br />

    I can't comment on Toslink vs Coax - I'm only using coax, which I prefer to optical. IMO although optical can be cleaner sounding, it's not as engaging as Coax. However, this all depends on the system and the cables you are using. I have a Russ Andrews based system with kimber cables throughout and a number of external filters/mains conditioners and the Russ Andrews AC12 upgraded PSU for the DacMagic, so small changes can be heard easily. If you have a budget system with standard cabling, then you may as well use optical. Chris did say that the V-link showed minimal differences between Optical and Coax, so maybe stick with your optical for now. You will still hear all the benefits. Worth trying coax going forward, just to find out. Remember, it matters how your DAC treats coax vs optical, in my experience the coax on the DacMagic sounds better.<br />

    <br />

    In conclusion, the V-link is essential if you are happy with your non-Async DacMagic, it will improve things. If you are not satisfied with your DAC, then maybe wait and go for a more expensive Async USB DAC. A higher quality, well built DAC will give you a substantial increase in sound quality from the DacMagic, not the M1DAC with V-link.<br />

    <br />

    Cheers<br />

    <br />

    PS: I don't think the Arcam Async rDAC will be any better than V-Link/DacMagic combo.

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    I have been using M1DAC and comparing it with the analog output of the Asus Essence STX soundcard (using the digital output of the Asus to feed the spdif input of the M1 )and really can´t find a difference.Even with 24/96 and 24/192khz files.<br />

    <br />

    Maybe I have not enough ears!<br />

    <br />

    My system: HP PC Windows xp, JRMC 15/ ASIO,Asus essence stx/M1 DAC, Conrad Johnson PV 10, Bryston 4 BST, Vandersteen 2C.<br />

    <br />

    M1 DAC is really well built,SR lock leds are useful, and it is a good value, but really, I would not say I can identify it from the Asus analog output in a blind test.<br />

    <br />

    I would suggest always to test the DAC in your system before purchasing....if possible.

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    I recently added the V-Link to my work system. It has made a big difference in sound quality. In particular, bass got much more solid. When I switched from S/PDIF to Toslink (w/ a good cable), the sound got much better still. Maybe due to the electrical separation from the computer.<br />

    <br />

    V-Link -> V-Dac w/ Pyramid power supply -> X-Can V2 w/ NOS tubes & Little Pinkie power supply -> Sennheiser 600/Audeze LCD-2.

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    I too found the V-Link to have some improvements on my system. I am using a $20 Monster Cable USB cable and PS Audio DAC Link III.

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    Hello,<br />

    <br />

    I have heard the Cambridge Audio DacMagic a couple of times in different systems, and it sounds very nice indeed...especially for the price! If you're looking for a tangible step up from the DacMagic, you'll probably want to budget around $1k (USD). Although they are not (yet) on the C.A.S.H. list, I would consider the <a href="http://www.rega.co.uk/html/DAC.htm">Rega DAC</a> and the <a href="http://www.wyred4sound.com/webapps/p/74030/117839/396494">Wyred 4 Sound DAC-1</a>.<br />

    <br />

    Which you choose depends on the characteristics of your existing playback system. If you already have a big open midrange sound, the W4S DAC-1 will give you a larger soundstage with extended and wonderfully realistic but not overdone treble. If your system has a relaxed midrange presentation, the Rega will help you open things up a bit. Both deliver tight extended bass. The USB input in the W4S supports 24-bit 88.2/96 kHz playback, so if you're into high-rez digital audio you can avoid the extra expense of a USB to S/PDIF adapter.<br />

    <br />

    To really make the upgrade worth your while, I suggest that you save up to avoid disappointment. Your DacMagic is no slouch, so it's not like you will be suffering intolerably in the meantime. :-)

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    I just received the V-Link via Amazon the other day primarily purchased based upon this review. I must say I have been very impressed with the improvement in SQ. The sound has become much clearer, bass with more depth and older recordings have more life to them. The installation was a breeze and it worked without a glitch. One thing to mention is that I hooked it up with a standard USB cable and listened for a day or two and it sounded as described, I ordered the Audio Quest Cinnamon cable and swapped it out with the standard one, I can honestly say that I have not been able to tell a difference in SQ, of course listening is not an A/B type experience but just from being familiar with certain recordings the sound is so close to the same. Not sure if a much more expensive cable would make the SQ better or not. Maybe the Cinnamon was not a step up enough for there to be a change of SQ? My next comparison will be between using the Toslink instead of the Coax as I am doing now. This is the best value improvement I have made to my system so far.

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    Hi Raj thanks for taking the time to reply to my questions. The V-Link does look very tempting, but I still have a few questions to ask you.<br />

    <br />

    Before you bought the V-Link what PC output were you using? Was it the optical output of a soundcard or were you using the usb input on the Dacmagic (thats meant to be bad SQ wise).<br />

    <br />

    Were you bypassing the windows Kmixer before you got the V-Link? <br />

    <br />

    Cheers.<br />

    <br />

    <br />

    <br />

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    @soundsolutions11: You hit the nail on the head!<br />

    <br />

    The V-Link will be a great improvement even in very expensive systems. Only D/A converters with really high quality USB inputs can make the V-Link useless.<br />

    We can discuss about the V-Link compared to other similar products, but should not compare it to onboard digi-outs of mainboards or notbooks. The onboard outputs sound boring.<br />

    The V-Link is a real top high-end product - it changes your computer to a reference-class music-server!<br />

    <br />

    I compared a standard USB cable and the Wireworld Starlight, the second was more smooth and not as harsh as the standard one. To me it's a huge gain and it's not very expensive.<br />

    <br />

    Bernhard

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    I purchased an Audio-GD Digital Interface right after auditioning the V-link and although the V-link is certainly a more convenient purchase (yay Amazon Prime!), for the same cost the Audio-GD DI is at least a class higher in performance, even though it's not really Async. That makes 0-2 with budget Async converters being outperformed by equally inexpensive but better implementations using the Tenor chip - the first Async I tried being the Hiface.<br />

    <br />

    Not that the V-link was bad, it was fine. But the Digital Interface brought a degree of refinement, nuance, and overall greater depth of performance. Build quality alone is amazing for the money.<br />

    <br />

    I don't see much Audio-GD presence/feedback here but I thought I'd chime in anyways. My .02.<br />

    <br />

    http://audio-gd.com/Pro/dac/USBface/Digital1EN.htm<br />

    <br />

    http://www.tweak-fi.com/apps/blog/show/5029064-the-usb-to-spdif-shoot-out-review-part-2

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    The problem with the audio_gd DI is that a lot of people over on head-Fi forum say that the optional psu is a must if you want to get the best out of it. Then you are looking at almost double the cost of a V-Link.

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    I think the discussion there is a bit more complicated than that. The basic gist is if you're looking to squeeze to the last drop of performance yes, an external PS is a good idea for *any* of these devices - but the USB powered performance of the DI is still a higher class regardless.<br />

    <br />

    Also, you don't have to use the Audio-GD PS should you choose that route, and the designer himself doesn't think it's a must. Any decent linear power supply with the right voltage, 5-10v, will do. There are very nice ones on ebay for $60 if you need something both compact and aesthetically pleasing. Obviously industrial options are much cheaper if, well, industrial.<br />

    <br />

    http://cgi.ebay.com/Upgraded-Power-Supply-Teralink-X1-X2-/270730069175?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f08c504b7<br />

    <br />

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    Hello John_Foxx_Fan<br />

    <br />

    Before the V-Link, I used USB direct from PC for windows internet apps like youtube and for Spotify. I also had coax connected to my motherboard Realtek HD Audio chip through Foobar 2000 kernel streaming. I would then switch inputs on my DacMagic as required. No longer the case, everthing runs through V-Link.<br />

    <br />

    The V-Link Direct Sound driver in Foobar 2000 beats the sound of Kernel Streaming Driver of the on-board Realtek HD Audio with coax connection.<br />

    <br />

    I also observed that when the V-link is selected as default Audio device in Windows Sounds, it greys out all controls, Volume, advanced properties, Speaker settings, the lot. I don't know whether this is significant, but it strikes me as a positive indication that the device rejects meddling from Windows as much as is possible.<br />

    <br />

    Cheers

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    Hi Raj.<br />

    <br />

    Sounds good. I was worried you were using the USB connection exclusively. Its very encouraging that going from Kernal streaming to the V-Link is a step up in SQ in your eyes.<br />

    <br />

    I'm torn beetween the V-Link and the Audio_Gd DI. I was close to pulling the trigger on a DI a few weeks ago having contacted Edwin and getting a quote, but after hearing the Mac Mini I'd just acquired (previously tried an Airport Express streaming to my living room hi fi and wasn't happy with the sound) I decided to give it a miss.<br />

    <br />

    At the moment I'm happy with the Mini SQ. I may give it a couple of months and see how I feel.

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    Adding v-link to a system running Decibal on a MacBook to iNova via Carbon USB: overkill?

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    hello everybody .. am new to this forum ... and i would like to ask a question ... here goes . <br />

    i have recently purchased a MF v-link to compliment my dac .. and it all sounds superb ...<br />

    my friends and I have a jazz room in a chat client .. so we do like to stream music ...my problem is i cant get any audio to show in any recording devices .. am using win 7 64 bit ..<br />

    And yet the strange thing is .. if I use a music recording program called " All Sound Recorder Vista"<br />

    I can record internet sound using the music fidelity v-link option ... but nothing on stereo mix ...<br />

    Any help appreciated ... regards Colin<br />

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