Is Squeezebox2 'Audiophile' quality?

[Spadge]

Hi there,

I am currently debating weather to get a squeezebox2 or a dedicated CD player as a new source.

I'm leaning towards the squeezebox2 because of it's convenience factor (no more hunting for or changing CD's!!) but am worried about the quality of the analouge outputs... are they any good?

I know the with a good DAC the squeezebox2 can be regarded as a VERY good transport. But unfortunately I can't afford the AU$1700 for the DAC1 (yet).

So could anyone please compare the analouge output of the squeezebox2 compared to CD players in the price range of the NAD 542?

I'm really hoping it's going to be good news in regards to the Squeezebox!!

Thanks
Paul

 

[gregeas]

You could try the Squeezebox first using the analog outs then upgrade later to an external DAC.

I'm running the SB2 with a DAC1 and am happy with the convenience and sound quality. Haven't tried the SB2's DAC though.

 

[Spadge]

Yeah that was my plan...

But I want something that sounds good out of it's analouge outputs because it will be a LONG while before I can afford something like the DAC1.

It seems everyone who owns a squeezebox only uses the digital output.

Paul

 

[Raxel]

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregeas You could try the Squeezebox first using the analog outs then upgrade later to an external DAC. I'm running the SB2 with a DAC1 and am happy with the convenience and sound quality. Haven't tried the SB2's DAC though.

Can you please test if SB2 can pass 96/24 wav to digital output? I have some DADs and I like to know if they will be downsampled or not. thanks

 

[Spadge]

Thanks for the replies so far...

The squeezebox analouge outputs would definately be a step up from my portable MP3 player wouldn't it? (iRiver H340)

Paul

 

[PsychoZX]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Spadge Thanks for the replies so far... The squeezebox analouge outputs would definately be a step up from my portable MP3 player wouldn't it? (iRiver H340) Paul

Definately. The built dacs on the squeezebox are actually quite good.