dCS Network Bridge

[bobh3501]

I have been using a Network Bridge for about 3 months.  For the first few weeks I thought it sounded a bit thin, though nicely detailed.  It started sounding better after breaking in for awhile (both it and my ears, I guess).  Now I prefer it to my microRendu which it replaced.

[bobh3501]

5 hours ago, rickca said:

Considering the huge price difference between a microRendu and a dCS Network Bridge, I'd hope for remarkably better sound.  Can you tell us more about your listening impressions?

 

Hi Rickca - 

First - the dCS network bridge costs about the same as my microRendu + LPS-1 + Berkeley Alpha USB + various associated cables (my best DAC is not USB friendly).  I passed the equipment on to nieces and nephews.  I would have upgraded to the ultraRendu as an alternative but wanted to simplify and eliminate USB.  The NB replaced 3 other boxes in my rack.

Second - I loved the sound I was getting from the microRendu.  My system has sounded very good with a variety of computer front end configurations over the years (different CAPS builds, etc).  This hobby keeps evolving and I enjoy trying things and optimizing them.  Every couple of years I try and shake it up - serving and streaming with lightweight Linux based solutions was new to me last year and I am exploring optimizing and tweaking it.  I love the sound I am getting from the Network Bridge now.  I would describe the NB as more refined, more detailed, and less fatiguing than the mR.  There is a clear difference in presentation from the 2 devices.  Having lived with the NB for a few months I switched back to the mR for a few days of listening and decided to keep the NB.  I will say that some of my poorly recorded but deeply loved favorites sound a bit more engaging on the mR.  

[bobh3501]

It was the original mR.  I was contemplating the upgrade when the NB was released.