Or go for an APL DAC - a DSD-AR is now available at audio-markt.de 🤞🏻

Maybe interesting for someone: my Ideon Absolute Time (USB reclocker) is up for sale. Send me a DM for info.

The CG Deluxe does have XLR inputs.. whether they are ‘truly balanced’ no idea 🤷🏼‍♂️

All CG inputs are of high quality.. but also depending on your source that may be optimized for one or another. As claimed in previous posts: the USB signal can be sanitized by reclockers etc. Furthermore: try and pick your preference..

You are right: it is a three step improvement process. It would make sense to make a distinction between word clocks, reclockers etc. Anyways, the whole discussion was about the SQ improvement using a USB reclocker (like the Ideon Time/ LHY UIP). The features of the Time reclocker are...

Why would you want to sync gear if it does not have any impact on SQ?

Then what would be the purpose of the LHY UIP or Ideon Absolute Time - devices that are placed in the chain with an USB in- and output?

Let your ears decide.. @Lucus your statement is false - a clock signal can be improved through an external clock (reclocking) on a single base/ device as well.

For whom interested: I got a OCK-2 available. PM for interest. Edit: Sold

Nice to see that my initial experiment with the USB reclocker has been picked up by some of you and that the LHY UIP does a good job in most situations… @project86 aren’t you tempted to try?

I only have experience with the Ideon Time as a USB-reclocker, but I can echo the findings from @bodhidharma regarding the LHY: Of course YMMV, but overall you can say USB Reclockers impact the CG’s sound positively in the time domain (also for my current DAC).

It looks really stunning by the way!

The reclocker has an USB-in and USB-output, so basically it is placed ‘in the gain’.. plus, a 10 MHz master clock can be connected to the reclocker if desired.

I told you so :wink: great to hear!!

Why don’t we show a little respect to each other and choose not to be so snobbish about other people’s choices and opinions?

Don’t waste your time on things that don’t give you energy! The hobby (and exchanging experiences in this thread) should be fun after all… I am afraid I am not familiar with all your great achievements.. enjoy them and celebrate them as victories! PS. Respecting other people is one of my basic...

That depends on what your reference is.. for me the Stromtank improves the SQ when compared to: 1. Treated power line (dedicated group, upgraded internal wiring, no earth leakage circuit breaker, Furutech NCF wall socket) 2. Additional use of a Transparent Reference series PowerIsolator What...

I live in the EU where APL is more often shown at audio shows etc. Still APL is a typical small boutique manufacturer producing low numbers of gear (that are obviously pricier).

I don’t see the ‘big mouth’ kind of attitude there (other than emphasizing what their tech is all about and some marketing related stuff).. being cautious is not needed, it was a major upgrade coming from the Grimm Audio MU1 streamer 👍

Don't feel sorry, it was a pleasure to learn and understand. ChiFi is not that bad at all.. and like @musicrocks adds: the DAC is 'only' one component in the system..

I have personal experience with the Holo Audio Spring 3 - level 3: it was the first ladder DAC that I came across combining DeltaSigma tech precision (regarding accurate stereo image, bass tightness) and a tube like lush and organic presentation. I believe this DAC has a real great...

I totally agree that improvements can be found apart from a DAC upgrade.. but this thread is about DACs :wink:. Starting from scratch I was lucky to build my audio basement with great attention to acoustics and treatments. The network has been optimized (Ansuz D3 PowerSwitch) my power is...

Yes, the Wadax is the ultimate reference (I was happy to witness a private audition some months ago) but suffers too much of "the law of diminishing returns" in my opinion. Though comparison with the APL DSD-GR would be interesting..

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