New owner of a Directstream Mk1 DAC: I know this topic has probably been discussed before. I’ve read that some say the DSD’s Bridge 2 card works very well, while others think this network card limits sound performance.
I’m currently looking at solutions; I’m looking to try a standalone streamer connected via I2S directly to the Directstream.
I need a streamer with an I2S output compatible with the Directstream’s I2S input pinout. I also want to use a simple app on my iPhone to play Qobuz (like blueOS or mconnect, Volumio, etc.). I’ve seen:
- Aune S10N
- Mano Ultra (the MK1)
- Volumio
- others
Do you think this will provide any benefit, or should I stick with just my Bridge 2?
Thanks for your help.
The Bridge II is pretty good and an excellent entry into the streaming world but you can do better with a stand alone streamer especially with I2S connection. A separate streamer would cost more than the BII but would be an upgrade. The BII is good however.
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The bridge 2 is already installed because included when I bought the DS. I wonder if the 1400 euros to add with external streamer using PS AUDIO I2S protocole able to provide a significant sound quality gap….
If you invest 1400 euros properly you will get a good upgrade in sound but the Bridge II is still pretty good. Try the Bridge II for a bit and then upgrade. The Bridge II is no slouch but there’s always better.
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Good advice.
@larbredor30200, I contend that the BII’s “deficiencies” are overstated.
I was very happy with the BII prior to acquiring a modified DS Sr. DAC with a separate analogue power board (and external power supply) and moving on to Holo Red and then to an AirLens.
To my ears, the Holo Red was the BII’s match at best. The AirLens is incrementally better, but not head and shoulders above the performance of the BII.
Take your time, do your research and save up for the best possible streamer you can afford to buy second hand; and enjoy the BII in the meantime.
That’s what I would do were I in your shoes.
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I have been on the same journey as Scotte above. With the same results. I have the same recommendation as the others.
One thing to remember. If you do purchase a separate streamer, remove the BII from your DS Snr DAC. One of Ted’s concerns with the BII was the high frequency hash/noise from what is essentially a special-purpose computer located so close to the internals of the DAC.
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I’ve owned the DS 1 and a BII for about 7 years but took the BII out after about three years as it was bettered by an Auralic Aries Mini and an aftermarket LPS. I’ve also owned a Holo Red for two years and still use it on a regular basis. I will disagree with Scottie that the BII and it are equal. To my ears the Red beats it handily and doesn’t require any add-ons. Can you do better than the Red, sure you can but not for the money you are looking to spend. You can pair it with mConnect for free if internet radio is not important to you or JPlay for IOS which gives you access to Tidal and Qobuz plus the ability to add internet radio stations via their URL including dozens of FLAC and Hi-Res stations. It also has auto play after your queue is empty for both services and full access to you stored library. I’m listening to this combo now via a Holo Spring 3 KTE and a Tubulus Concentus cable.
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Hello and thank you all for your advice, as I just acquired this DS with the Bridge2 card, I will stay with it for a while longer because, for the moment, the sound is wonderful and everything works very easily and very well. But we always want the “better”… for the moment I will put a little money into the upgrade (EDCORE transformers ordered, SR Purple fuse ordered and Furutech IEC socket ordered) and then I will let some time pass and listen to my music with my Musical Fidelity amplifier for class A and my Cornwall: a real pleasure! Thanks again to all
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