[dmented7]

Hi, I currently have a little Behringer UCA202 connected to my laptop, but am wanting to upgrade my setup by getting a dedicated DAC. I'm tempted by the KEces 131 because of it's supposed superiority to the 151 (which is more than just the resolution btw).
The Keces 131 is 24/196, and what I am wondering is whether the digital output from the UCA202 is limited to 16/44.1, or is that just the dac inside?

 

[TopPop]

Well, it looks like the converter in the Behringer is limited to 16/48, so if it works the same as the USB to SPDIF conversion that my Trends unit makes, you'll be limited to that bit-depth and resolution, no matter what your DAC is capable of... unless it's an upconverting DAC.

 

[dmented7]

hmmm... if that's the case, I might be better off buying an M-audio transit maybe. Or just get an 0404 usb instead of the standalone DAC...

 

[FallenAngel]

USB 1.1 is limited to 16bit / 48 kHz (As is used by all USB->S/PDIF converters)

Is your content of higher resolution (higher than CD @ 16bit/44.1kHz, as in DVD-A, SACD, etc)? If not, what are you worried about?

 

[dmented7]

I just have some 24/96 vinyl rips lying around on my HDD and was wanting to hear what all the fuss was about for myself.
Are there no simple USB -> S/PDIF converters which support 24bit/96khz?
The only ones I have found all have a lot of extra features that I would be bypassing...

 

[FallenAngel]

Like I said, USB 1.1 is maximum 16/48. USB 2.0 audio supports 24/96 but requires custom drivers. I would suggest simply getting a soundcard with S/PDIF output.

 

[dmented7]

heh.. I wish it were that simple. It has to be USB since it needs to connect with my laptop.
Unless there is a way to connect PCI cards to a laptop? ( I have an m-audio 24/96 lying around unused..)

 

[vvs_75]

I know about this one, but it cost an arm. Interconnects and Cables by Empirical Audio

 

[FallenAngel]

Quote:

Originally Posted by dmented7 /img/forum/go_quote.gif heh.. I wish it were that simple. It has to be USB since it needs to connect with my laptop. Unless there is a way to connect PCI cards to a laptop? ( I have an m-audio 24/96 lying around unused..)

Does your laptop not have PCMCIA?