Matrix question - single USB-C port on tablet

Accessories and Tweaks
1

I have an Android tablet, a Google Pixel C, which I’d love to use as a high-res audio source, now that Audirvana works as a control point for a couple of Android DLNA high-res apps.
My problem is that the Pixel has only one USB-C port, for both charging and audio output.
Neutron player software works as a DLNA renderer for Audirvana when plugged direct into DSD USB, but I’m not having any luck getting it working through a hub.
I’ve tried a powered USB hub, which charges it OK, but can’t get a connection through the hub to the DSD - the USB light on the DSD is red.
Does anyone have experience with some sort of non-DAC USB-C adapter that would pass the USB audio signal while providing charging power?

2

Assuming you mean the Matrix Audio X-SPDIF 2, I don’t know of a reason a cable of this type wouldn’t pass data and the required 5v.

For $7, it would certainly be a low risk try. But I don’t have first hand experience.

Hope this helps.

3

The problem isn’t a cable - I can connect to the DSD with a straight USB-C to USB-D cable.
The issue is that I haven’t been able to charge the tablet while playing, due to the single USB-C port on the Pixel.

4

This is slightly more functionality than you need, but I think it could work. USB-C power in, USB-C connection to tablet, USB-A port to go to your DAC.

5

Thanks - Interestingly, I was able to connect through the el-cheapo hub, but I don’t have a power adapter for it, so I just ordered one of these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07J9Q29KJ
Should be here tomorrow. If it works as I hope, I’ll be ordering a Matrix Audio X-SPDIF 2.

Is there any consensus on an inexpensive short I2S cable?

6

I think the consensus thus far is, “you get what you pay for.” For those who have tried “cheapo” i2S cables, they weren’t offended per se, but all have conceded that a greater investment in a better built and engineered cable brought about an acceptable ROI.

1 Like
7

Update. The powered hub did allow Android to deliver 192/24 to the DSD, with input wifi/dlna, output to USB.

However bugs in the Android audio apps and bugs and restrictions in Audirvana have driven me back to Roon, now delivered to USB by a dedicated Mac running Roon Bridge, which I think sounds slightly better than using Bridge 2 in the DSD.

Next week I’m looking forward to the Matrix device to elevate things a bit.