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...this time for my Xfinity X1 digital CATV box with digital optical Lifatec Silflex Glass Toslink output, through a Monarchy Audio DIP (Digital Interface Processor). Worth the extra-expense vs. taking a chance with a lower-cost option DAC. Not so much that digital CATV audio is so outstanding, it's partly because it's not so special. Pretty much enjoyable sounding Mid-Fi or a cut-above depending on source material sound quality. Maybe "CD Quality" consumer electronics criteria, at best. Just for the fact that it's the first time I've heard a discrete analog output signal for television audio playback is a great reward, among other things. Even though the new DAC has only been through an overnight AC plug-in session while idle before I placed it in the system, I did not have to wait for more than several hours before the weighty sonic signature of discrete components began to kick-in.
Having a robust analog output is even more vital since a remote volume control passive preamplifier is placed between the Gustard DAC-X12 DAC and my Mondial Designs Aragon 18k Mark II preamplifier with Penny + Giles potentiometer. Two potentiometers in the signal path is a no-no without some sort of added benefit as a sonic trade-off. Due to the fact that my stereo preamplifier does not feature remote volume control, a passive preamplifier with remote volume control was the only viable option if I wished to make the best of an unfortunate audiophile situation. At this time, I've placed enough effort into the I/O cabling including power cords, that I'm glad to wait-out any other fine tuning until the new DAC settles into my system. Even TV commercial soundtracks sound better at this point, not that I enjoy listening to such a thing. The main objective in choosing a DAC that is better than the source is to respect the sound quality capacity of the rest of the audio system, rather than sell short the value of any aspect involved in audiophile-options.
Follow Ups:
BTW, one of the great things about the moderate-cost level Gustard DAC-X12 DAC is the full-featured connectivity. All bases are covered for now, and for the foreseeable future. I've suggested the DAC-X12 as a reference DAC for a friend's mixdown and mastering project, since it provides excellent coherency. It's rather sensitive to an aftermarket power cord upgrade, so I also suggested an Oyaide NEO Black Mamba Alpha V2 power cord for his recording studio application.
At this time, I fully enjoy the use of a VH Audio AirSine power cord with Gold Wattgate AC connectors, and a DIY Oyaide Black Mamba V2 power cord with Oyaide 004 Beryllium AC connectors for the Gustard DAC-X12 DACs in my collection. Another nice aspect of the DAC is I don't feel the need to modify it other than cabling and various vibration control methods. It fully deserves to take the place of an old-school Museatex Bitstream DAC I recently retired, after many years of enjoyment.
Cheers, Duster
I took a chance on the "lower cost option DAC" for my Xfinity X1 digital CATV box and it worked out nicely. Good luck with the Gustard.
$20 on Amazon:
Not quite sure what you mean, but I hope you enjoy what you have, AbeCollins.
Well, in my case I totally cheaped out. It worked OK but not great.
I had a very rough week and too many Kettle One martinis when I read Abe's response. I was dazed and confused and did not understand what was being said, and in my drunken haze I thought Abe was putting down my post. Again, I'm sorry for posting such a hostile response in the forum, and can only ask for Abe's and the forum's forgiveness. It's really not my style to act like such a fool.
Sincerely, Duster
Been there too. And it happens in a split second. To reverse it and have both parties accept and move on is rare indeed. Deepest respect to both.
Cheers!
Jonesy
"I know just enough to get into trouble. But not enough to get out of it."
NT
been there. No harm. ;-)
nt
Peace
Des
in the last 5 minutes...
LOL Been there and done that. I wish you had been draining the Pepe Lopez, now that really would have been a read...
Keep reporting on gear etc. I always enjoy your input on all subjects.
Will
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