Direct quote from Peter, the lead software engineer from Lumin.
“It is not possible to have a full MQA decoder to digital output, because MQA rendering is specific to the digital to analog conversion (DAC) hardware. Digital output can only have MQA Core decoder, that is true for all hardware MQA transports like Lumin U1 / U1MINI / U2MINI and MQA software (including Roon, Tidal desktop app, and Audirvana).”
So that is what my screen shot says. Decoding. I always get confused what does what. And I think Roon can do the decoding, so with the MKII I do not think I am missing anything when comparing the Red with U2. Would that be correct?
No you’re not.
From Roon Site:
Roon will decode the MQA file or stream it to an MQA Core stream . This produces a PCM audio stream at 88.2kHz or 96kHz which contains MQA signalling information that your DAC needs to render the MQA signal properly.
There are levels of unfolding, Roon only does the first, most basic unfold. People who know the details of the entire process are trying to get a message to you. Devices that do the entire unfold process have an advantage sonically. Whether that difference is important to you is a personal thing. I personally have zero interest in MQA. But I do understand the theory and the process.
Many will disagree with me but I firmly believe using zero Roon audio processing is a good rule. I love Roon, but not its optional audio processing.
I do have my Roon set to first unfold of MQA. The only Roon processing setting. I don’t save MQA songs to Roon library. However the Roon radio MQA streams that come up are no longer offensive in sound. I think because I made my overall streaming set up better. I used to avoid Tidal for poor SQ compared to Qobuz but not anymore.
I’m wondering if a new product would benefit from a fiber input port.
Switches and converters are often used and liked in audiophile systems due to the isolation they can bring compared to ethernet cables connection.
A sort of Fiber Bridge, so to speak. Not to mention a Fiber AirLens…
Sorry if it’s a silly idea.
Happy cake day! I’m on Hawaii time so it’s understandable late!
If AirLens can improve your streaming chain further, then many here will jump in including me.
Also, we still have no idea if it will work with other OS other than Roon.
I was thinking about fiber because yesterday I signed the contract with my internet provider for a new dedicated fiber line, as another step for the imminent refurbishment of my room. March is closer and a few purchases are needed (Iconoclast longer cables, a new P15 for M1200s, rack shelves, etc etc…). The list is long, the wallet is lighter day after day.
How I would like to be on a beach like you these last days, or not?
But I am looking forward to your thoughts after you’re done with the room upgrade. I hope by then we will hear more on Bridge 2.5. But you’re not considering getting one, are you? I don’t think you have experienced Bridge2 in the past.
Don’t worry, a Bridge is actually as far from my thoughts as traffic jam for you on the beach (PS: congrats, wonderful place!)
Oh, that is a glorious picture. The foam coming up on the beach, mountains of Hawaii - what a great way to start the day!
Great!
I already imagine a new rabbit hole for SPF modules, after tubes and fuses and isofeet and so on…
SPF Module… galvanically isolated, Bridge Module or at the pinnacle of our fantasy: an AirModule. File the patent, Vince!
Just moving in some updates on the Bridge in a box concept that have flowed through…
Timings & cost
How the Bridge 2 sounds out of the DAC
MQA, Roon and Digital Lens (that should carry across)
Hi @Paul. Your impressions of the Bridge 2.5 / Bridge in a box sounded really positive, but that was a little while ago now, when I believe you were aiming for an April release.
Are you able to say how things are going with the Bridge 2.5?
I completely forgot about the BiB.
