Diving Deep into Computer Audio

[solidsqual]

Recently, I purchased a HRT Music Streamer +II. This unit's sound is unbelievable for $350. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing DAC under $1.5K. I feel its better than the Wavelength Audio Proton, but begins to really show its pricepoint when placed against a juggernaut like the AYre QB-9.

 

My reason for buying the little HRT in addition to auditioning many other DACs was to evaluate whether Computer Audio has risen to the level of a great CD player. My conclusion is of course that it indeed has. In fact, when I play my 24/96 files over my Mac Mini, I'm achieving sound the puts any CDP I have ever heard to shame.

 

So . . . recently I sold the HRT. Why?

 

I just purchased an Emerald Physics CS2.3 Spatial Computer system! Has anyone else on the forum heard one of these babies sing? I had the privilege of hearing a complete setup near my home and was amazed by the system's abilities. Computer audio is the future (period).

 

I cannot wait to get this system in my home! And, this site has me completely stoked. Its nice to see a forum full of music server nuts like me.

 

Thanks!

 

[MarkS]

Where do you get the software- the 24/96 material?

 

[solidsqual]

HD Tracks or Rhino Records mostly.

 

[MarkS]

Is the Rhino records material 24/96khz? I don't think so. I tested with a few tracks, and they were 16/44.1. Thanks.

 

[solidsqual]

Oh no, sorry read the first question incorrectly. Rhino Records is all lossless CD quality stuff. HD tracks is a mix.

 

See this link also:

 

http://www.computeraudiophile.com/state-of-audiophile-music-downloads

 

[aljordan]

Hi solidsqual,

 

Have you received your new system yet? I am interested to know how you like it. Which DAC did you get with it?

 

Thanks,

Alan

 

[solidsqual]

I have not received the new system yet. I went with the TC Konnect DAC. I'm told the TCK and the Apogee Ensemble sound exactly the same despite the $2k price difference. From what I understand, the TCK was actually selected to replace the Ensemble because it sounds the same and costs less, but other customers dislike the aesthetics of the TCK and are willing to shell out for the added price of the Ensemble.

 

I'll post more on the forum after I get this system setup and dialed in.

 

Regards,

 

Mike