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Computer Audio Asylum Music servers and other computer based digital audio technologies. |
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Computer Audio Asylum Music servers and other computer based digital audio technologies. |
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In Reply to: Re: Considering Squeezebox -- Please help posted by richs on September 6, 2005 at 19:51:12:
I just ordered one of those 500GB SATA drives. Should be here Friday; can't wait.Richs,
The Dell should be fine to use as a music server.
I have the Bolder modded SB2 and could not be happier. I have the version with both the digital and analog mod. The sound is so good that I'm thinking about dumping my tube CD player. I run it into my anthem pre/pro via coax digital and also analog. There is a slight difference between the two. The digital output is just a tad more laid back. The analog output has a little bit more detail and a tad more pace. So, the difference I'm hearing is either the cables or the DAC's. It's saying a lot when the sound of a $300 unit (actually $750 after mod) is giving my $3500 pre/pro a run for its money. Keep in mind that the modded SB2 is not broken in yet. I've only had it about 4 days know and it still needs a lot more time on it before it settles down.
Know as far as convenience goes you can't beat the SB2 or using a computer as a music server. It is so much easier to find a particular tune than having to scan through racks and racks of CD's. I use a WIFI PDA to access my library using the supplied handheld skin. I can find just about anything in less than 30 seconds this way.
When I first get a new CD, I listen to it twice on the computer rig to decide if it’s a keeper. Then I rip it and put it away for good. However, for the most part I'm not the type of person to listen to an entire CD; I jump all over the place.
I've played around with USB dacs in my computer rig which consists of B&W monitors, Monarchy Audio SE100-Delux class A monos, custom subwoofer and currently a Benchmark DAC. In the past I owned both Apogee and C.E.C. USB DAC's. The C.E.C. was fine, the Apogee was better. However, neither one was my cup of tea. Right know I'm enjoying the Benchmark, connected via SPDIF, which actually cost a little less than the Apogee. However, I'm using the balanced outputs to drive my Monarchy amps which really isn't a fair comparison. One of these days I'll drag the SB2 in hear and compare it to the Benchmark; should be interesting.
Getting back to SB2. I found the stock unit to be a little harsh on the top end and the soundstage was a little pinched. However, it sounded a lot better than its $300 price tag would lead you to believe. I'd guess that 99% of people would be happy with the stock unit.
Finally, you’re the one that has to listen to it every day. What I hear is going to be different than what you hear. If you want to play around and compare a USB dac to the SB2 then order a Benchmark and an SB2. After all, they both have a 30 day satisfaction policy.
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Follow Ups
- Re: Considering Squeezebox -- Please help - prpixel 09/7/0508:07:06 09/7/05 (0)
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