Audio-gd Reference 1 DAC (56 K warning) - Page 115

Do you guys think that an I2S connection to the RE1 could top all other inputs in terms of jitter and SQ?

That's not possible without making major change to Re1. i already asked kingwa about the possibility.

Yeah, I figured it was. I should think that we would just have to bypass or remove the DIR9001 receiver chip, if that converts the S/PDIF to I2S.

Well it shouldn't involve major changes. But if there is a risk of damage I will forget about it. I'll ask Kingwa first though. I2S should theoretically eliminate the issues of jitter and signal reflections in cables, if the voltage or current coming from the transport can span a cable length. I'm not sure what modifications would have to be made to the Logitech Transporter though, and if they would be minor or major.

Why not just use the perfectly good I/V stage in the Ref 1? Works fine IMO with a decent pair of XLR cables.

I will try that first of course, but it is a passive IV with a buffer. I am going to try passive without buffer and nude Vishay, and if that isn't up to snuff an active stage.

What amps have you tried it with via XLR? (aside from the Phoenix because I've tried that and it doesn't sound as good as ACSS, but that could be due to the voltage-to-current conversions taking place in the Phoenix.) I want to make sure the DAC performs at the top of its game with the amp I'm having built.

Are you sure you weren't just hearing tonal changes? Once I switched to my DIY OCCC ACSS cables, there was essentially no difference (at least tonally) between those and the VDH The Orchid XLR (which, sans actually doing an RMAA test, I consider to be neutral). I'll test again though if you like and see if I can detect any difference in detail, now I've improved my transport somewhat.

I hear no obvious difference with my FBI-500 between stock ACSS cable and VDH XLR (lesser version of Curra's)

Ok, do I hafta drag it outta ya? What happened with the board wiring conundrum?

The PCM1704 isn't going to like driving anything without a buffer.

Isn't the whole point of CAST to avoid I/V?

Yes, if you are using all CAST components. But I won't be.

And the PCM1704 chips aren't directly feeding the current signal that you get in the CAST cables. It goes through an output stage first.

WOW, Good Luck! Hopefully the old board will fire back up!

I finally have it guys!

I had to travel almost 4hours by public transportation and 30mins by walk to catch a bus with this heavy beast in my arms.
The DHL facility in Montreal is very far away from downtown and unless you have a car, it is not easily accessible.

Anyhow, the RE1 has very good minimalistic looks. However, I do not like the air vents on the top and I would have prefered a simpler design top cover to match my other audio-GD gear.
Kingwa has demonstrated that there is no benefit or use in having air vents on the top.
I'm afraid that dust might settle in the DAC and damage it in the long run.

Do you guys know where I can find a tutorial, FAQ or manual on how this baby works? I've seen DIP switches near the DSP chip. I wonder what those are for.

Punk.