Explain maximum USB/Optical Bit rates?

[mruszczy]

Hi,

 

I have a Dell XPS 420 (Vista Home Premium & Media Monkey) & a PS Audio Digital Link III. The DAC has only USB, Coaxial, and Optical digital inputs. The Dell has USB and Optical outputs (no coaxial). The DAC supports 192/24, but I'm having a hard time deciphering how best to get 192/24 data from the Dell to the DAC.

 

Can USB transfer 192/24? Can Optical? I'd appreciate any explanation/clarification!

 

Thanks, in advance.

 

Michael

 

 

 

 

[The Computer Audiophile]

Hi Michael - USB is pretty much limited to 24/96 right now. Optical can handle bit perfect 24/192 and I have successfully tested this. Not all optical outputs and software are the same. For example on my Mac Pro the optical is limited to 24/96 using OS X, but when booting up Windows Vista 64 on the same hardware the optical supports 24/192.