So I did this long ago and actually did report out on it. I’ve taken 3 CDs and I have flac and dsf versions of each. Two of the three I go to the dsf. I find the differences similar in the 2 in that the flac seems more ‘solid’. The music comes from a more centered position. The dsf sounds more spacious w a wider soundstage. Since I have both flac/dsf on my hard drive it is very easy to a/b them.
The third cd I didn’t really experience much of a diff and it was a live recording so I thought I liked the flac as live recordings have a tendency to sound less dense to begin with.
Thanks @timm !
More feedback from others please…
I suspect you’re right with which recordings you transfer. I didn’t like one rip from Bladerunner (New American Orchestra). The rest sound so much more natural and organic. Bass is really well defined. Instruments seem more “palpable”.
I did not get a chance to test before my trip down here in Chicago. Picking up my Gryphon Pandora preamp tomorrow and listening to Giya Spirit speakers. Next week perhaps.
I have been comparing WIn 10 laptop > USB cable > Matrix > i2S input > PSA DS SR to various Ethernet input configs including a etherRegen and Bridge II, a Bridge II alone, and a OPP0 105 as an Ethernet bridge alone into the PS Audio DS Sr via coax.
The Matrix is using the basic $17 Uptone stock 7.5v/4.8 A power brick SMPS that comes with a lot of their gear.
I have a more proper Uptone Ultracap LPS 1.2 on the way.
The Bridge II is now removed from the PS Audio DS Sr.
In general, the Matrix > i2S setup sounds best. Just a little bit more of everything for lack of a better way to describe it. The sum of that is a meaningful difference.
FWIW- I did not hear a difference with the etherRegen in the signal path when streaming. Actually the three ethernet configs sounded very very close so I pulled the Bridge II out of the DS box and am just using the OPPO 105 as a network bridge.
I think that seems to have reduced the noise floor when using the Matrix path. Nothing mind blowing or profound as it all was pretty quiet already, but there is more detail coming through and a more black background.
All of this little stuff adds up.
Sooooo, the Matrix stays. Will try it at 7V and 9V settings when I get the nicer Uptone LPS 1.2.
Am looking for a network bridge solution now, but when looking at those unit prices, it emphasizes that the Matrix and a couple cables and no power supply (or even a cheap one) is quite a good ROI as far as upgrades in this hobby.
I saw above where you have had not so great experience with them.
I got it used so not a big outlay. Can always resell it as they are well liked.
I really have no idea- the whole LPS thing is new to me but folks swear it is an important element for a lot of gear to upgrade from stock SMPS bricks. Will check into the Sbooster.
I had a Pardot LPS on the etherRegen. Still didn’t make a difference in my system for whatever reason and people love the etherRegen.
Jitterbug makes things worse.
9v into matrix sounds best, but 7v is better for matrix long term health. The reason why we all use 7v Farad is that nobody has been brave enough to try 9V and have all followed the 1st buyer because we know it works ok.
Al, do us a favour and buy both and tell us which sounds best
LOL, I am using 7.5V for a change.
Edit: Nucleus+ with SSD on board ( 19V HDPlex 300) > AQ Coffee USB > Matrix (7.5V HDPlex 300) > AQ Vodka HDMI > DS DAC via I2S
Well I have tried 9V with other selectable supplies and my results have always been worse. I think it is system dependent. What that piece is is a mystery since everyone’s system and hearing is different as is our thoughts of what sounds most natural and life like or what our reference material is.
My Uptone LPS 1.2 arrived today. Will report back if there is a change in SQ. Will run it at 7V. You guys have me a little spooked about running it at 9V now.
