I2S cable between Eversolo A8 and DirectStream MKII

Cables
1

Hi,

I have been a vinyl guy for many years and am new to digital audio. I need your advice. I am currently using the Eversolo A8 as transport and DirectStream MKII as DAC via USB A to USB B cable. I heard I2S connection would be better, but people said that there could be PINs mismatch between the two devices I have. Is anyone using the A8 (or any Eversolo components) and DirectStream MKII via I2S? If so, what cable do you use? Can I just use a regular HDMI cable that I use for my surround system?

2

To achieve the best sound quality, you will need an audiophile HDMI cables. There are many reasonable priced ones out there, and there are a few high priced cables to bring your system to the next level too. One example would be AQ Dragon48 or Firebird48.

Digital cables definitely make a difference.

3

I do understand the importance of the cable. But do you know if the A8 is compatible with the DirectStream MKII in terms of the PIN configuration?

4

I don’t think they are compatible as each one has a different fixed configuration. Only the T8 has adjustable configurations.

5

The PSAudio pin out is published. You can compare it to the A8 and/or ask Eversolo for help on the comparison. They have been very responsive to my last question which was on I2S as well. However I have the T8.

Interesting point is none of the 8 match PS Audio exactly. However 5, 7 and 8 work well. I run Mode 7 from a T8 to a Mk1. Sounds excellent.

I use a Carbon 48 cable. Probably any good quality cable will work just fine.

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6

Actually, with the MKII DAC there is little, if any sonic difference between the USB input and the I2S input. This has been stated many, many times. Some still hang on to all the MKI talk about USB sucks, I2S is so much better. That was an MKI situation, solved in the MKII. Breath easy. Great USB cables offer rewards, as do great HDMI cables for I2S. I2S offers other advantages, but sound wise you might not hear much of a difference if you do have an MKII DAC.

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7

Agree with above. I chose I2S for a reason having a Mk1 on tap (still). But if I were changing dacs tomorrow, I probably just make sure the new dac had a robust usb implementation and call it a day.

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8

This is quite correct, and my personal experience was that I preferred USB connection (with Lumin U2) over I2S. Mainly because there are more selection in USB cables than HDMI. The best AQ Dragon48 is no match to many topline USB cables.

2 Likes
9

There is another thread on this topic, where @Julio found a source for a custom i2s cable made with correct pin alignment. You will want to use i2s or USB input, both have the same capabilities.