218.189.230.121
In Reply to: RE: Music Server Computer transport - Hop On! posted by bcherry on November 04, 2009 at 06:49:06
OK the Magic Black Box.
Much has been written about the Musiland computer-to-external DAC enabler. Just plug in the USB data stream from the computer and out the provided SPDIF comes our DAC friendly perfect bits, even up to 192khz/24bits.
That's pretty good news. However there are 'issues':
1. the Musiland is powered through the USB cable, drawing trashy DC from the computer's power supply
2. the on board 24mhz clock signal is a total disaster
3. the electrolytic caps are undersized
4. the 2 pulse transformers massacre the data stream
5. some parts values are not ideal
6. 75 ohm digital friendly cable is not used
7. the input side circuit can be greatly improved with some simple changes
So we remove the (cough, cough) clock, 4 of the SMD resistors, the 2 pulse transformers, the 5 10uf caps, the offensive wire and replace with suitable bits plus some hocus pocus to the circuit performed by the expert.
We power the pcb with the DIYHFS VCS regulated supply driven by its own power transformer
We feed the clock signal from the Ultimate Clock and Power supply system with a shiny new .5ppm 24mhz OSC.
All is installed in the Black Magic Box as shown.
Now we have the Musiland DAC enabler where we want it: untethered from the computer power supply and operating with lowest jitter from a proper clock which has its own power supply.
We put the box together and reconnect the system. Is it worth it?
DIY - Done Right!
Follow Ups:
Post a Followup:
Top of Page ]
[ Contact Us ]
[ Support/Wish List ]
[ Copyright © 2009, Audio Asylum, all rights reserved ]
[ Go Green ]
[ Take5 ]