Channel Islands DAC with Squeezebox; any impressions?

[Bigjppop]

Just wondering if anyone has tried the CIA DAC with the Squeezebox; I'm interested in upgrading my digital front end and thought this might be an interesting combination. I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts or impressions.

[melomaniac]

yes I am listening to that combo right now. it's quite an improvement over the analog out, in terms of detail and oomph, the DAC certainly trounces the analog SB3 output, though that's also fine (I use another SB3 in my second system and can compare - e.g. synchronize them and go from one room to the other while the same music plays, or else go back and forth on the amp between the analog inputs and the DAC).

you'll find a number of people here and on the SB boards who use the CIA VDA2. the right cable is a bit of a concern, I am not happy with my coax right now.

[Bigjppop]

You gotta love when some has the exact setup you're interested in! Do you use the outboard power supply for your DAC? Also, what cable are you using?

[deadie]

Here's my audio chain:
Squeezebox V3 - Digital Coax - CI Audio VDA2 (stock PS) - CI Audio Balanced cables - Headroom Balanced Desktop - Senn600. Just killer.

Lush, rich, full, fast, deep, power, detail.

As melo stated, the VDA2 destroys the analog outputs from the Squeezebox.

I actually have upgratitus just for the sick sick sake of it, and am hard pressed to replace the VDA2 b/c it's so good.

[Bigjppop]

Well if you decide to part with your VDA2 let me know.

I know the effect the upgrade fever can have (I have two things for sale now!).

[1UP]

I believe the dedicated CIA PSU also offers another upgrade path.