Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter & USB DACs

[Alphapenguin]

Hi all

 

Thought I’d share my thoughts on the CCK3. I got it to combine my iPad with a Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital DAC/amp to use whilst traveling. Bottom line: everything works flawless, connection was uneventful (iPad requested an update upon connecting CCK3) and sound quality (Sennheiser HD700) is on par with my main rig (home-built Windows 10 multimedia system).

 

Although no MQA from Tidal on iOS, to my surprise the iPad seems to be able to output up to 96kHz. 

 

I’m happy with this solution, as I see no reason to acquire a laptop to replace the iPad as a music player while staying away from home.

 

Pros:

-ease of use

-acceptable sound quality

-inexpensive (if one already has an iOS device)

 

Cons:

-bit messy with all the cables

[Alphapenguin]

2 hours ago, Alphapenguin said:

Although no MQA from Tidal on iOS, to my surprise the iPad seems to be able to output up to 96kHz. 

 

Just saw this:

 

On 12/3/2017 at 9:09 AM, One and a half said:

The Airport Express maxes at 48kHz, the Camera adapter can output 192kHz sampling rates. The airport express also runs very hot which I don't like.

 

Also, I managed to get MQA using Roon, configuring the iPad to both render and decode. My interpretation is that the signal from Roon core is then passed through to the iPad USB output, letting the S2 Digital handle it exclusively. 

 

[Alphapenguin]

5 hours ago, lucretius said:

 

The CCK just passes through what it is given, e.g . I can play DSD files using the Onkyo HF Player app with the iPad connected (via CCK) to my DSD capable DAC.

 

 

 

 

I see. Just tested and I can play DSD through Roon. Impressive.

 

4 hours ago, Em2016 said:

The Apple CCK is indeed handy.

 

Indeed. My expectations were indeed surpassed, and don’t see many limitations vs using a laptop/Mac. I’m not yet sure as to the significance of lack of access to Roon.