USB to SPDIF for Rega DAC

[kenworthy100]

Can anyone recommend a good USB to SPDIF converter to improve the sound when using a laptop and Rega DAC. I am aware of the Musical fidelity Vlink2 and wondered if there were any alternatives that members had tried?

Many thanks in advance

[Stratmangler]

HiFace2 :)

[RichB]

V link II here mate and happy with it, might upgrade to the 192 version as and when budget permits.

Will watch this thread with interest though.

[.mus]

I have an Audiophilleo2 (http://www.audiophilleo.com/audiophilleo2.aspx). I don't have a Rega so I can't comment on how well it would pair with your DAC, but it's certainly a very nice converter. The improvements it wrought were immediate and obvious, and a little shocking (in a good way).

However, I run it conjunction with an external PSU - the AQVOX - without which I think the impact would be more mixed; having tried it without the PSU, the treble is uncomfortably edgy, but this is no doubt due to the power supply arrangements of the PC, rather than an intrinsic defect with the AP2.

An upside with the AP2 is that it runs directly into the back of the DAC, so no need for a further coaxial cable. Plus Philip, the designer, is very pleasant over email, and quick to respond to any queries. Also, FWIW, Naim have licensed the AP's asynch interface for their new DAC-V1.

[barry-potter]

audio gd di v3

http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/dac/DIv3/DIv3EN.htm

[Gazjam]

had a Vlink II worked great into the Rega Dac.
Vlink 192 is a LOT better though, without paying silly money its as good as it gets imo.

[purite audio]

K you are most welcome to borrow an M2Tech Hiface2 ,see if it makes a difference,
Keith.

[kenworthy100]

Thanks for the replies, very useful

[kenworthy100]

K you are most welcome to borrow an M2Tech Hiface2 ,see if it makes a difference,
Keith.

Thank you Keith,

that's a very kind and helpful offer, I am going to be away over the next few days, so if I could get in touch when I return to get something arranged.

Many thanks John

[oldson]

another vote for the hiface 2, very happy with mine, with Keiths offer you cant lose.

[NRG]

These are very good for just £11...

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MUSE-HiFi-PCM2704-USB-to-S-PDIF-Converter-DAC-Sound-Card-Board-/190709814201?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item2c6730d3b9

They also do one already enclosed for £20. Fully isolated, headphone output and 1:1 pulse Tx on the SPDIF output....many CD players or streamers (IE: squeezebox) don't have the same attention to detail!

Only downside is the 48Khz limit, so no hires stuff.