Looking for 500$ USB to S/PDIF transport

Same DAC, I'm using a Halide Bridge. I compared it only against a Hiface and I prefer the Halide, the Hiface sounded too bright, artificially bright in my system.

You should try the EVO.

At that price you should try the audiophilleo 2.  30 day money back guarantee just in case it doesn't satisfy you.

I think the halide bridge is quite good. Its the easiest to setup and requires no other cables like the others. having no other cables not only saves you money, it gives you peace of mind not having to worry about if the usb/digital cable is holding back your system or if buying a different one will give you better sound. Plug both ends in and be done with it.

I think the Audiophilleo has the lowest jitter of any of the available market options.  The only other thing that can improve the SQ past that point is something with a battery.  The Wavelength Wavelink comes to mind, but that's out of your price range.  Or something along these lines might help: http://www.aqvox.de/usb-power_en.html

X2

I own the Halide Bridge and in my system is outperforms the M2Tech hiFace, making it sound very artificial in the upper midrange and higher frequencies. Although the hiFace has a bit more dynamic punch and PRAT. I thought at first it had more air and top end extension but really its just artifical sparkle.

My Bel Canto USB Link sounds a little bit more substantial, maybe a little bit more dynamics but the Halide Bridge does sound better overall than the Bel Canto as well.

I think you should really try both the Audiophilleo and Halide Design Bridge, as they both provide trial periods. Buy both and keep the one you enjoy more.

Most of Dave Clark's (Positive Feedback) reviews are very similiar to my findings.

Heres an article to read:
 

http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue51/usb_converters.htm

Quote:

Originally Posted by KingStyles 

I think the halide bridge is quite good. Its the easiest to setup and requires no other cables like the others. having no other cables not only saves you money, it gives you peace of mind not having to worry about if the usb/digital cable is holding back your system or if buying a different one will give you better sound. Plug both ends in and be done with it.

The Evo is better than the HiFace and way better with a proper supply. There is no hint of the "aggressiveness" that HiFace has on higher frequencies, more detailed etc. etc...