View Full Version : iFI Audio iPurifier
mr sneff
13-02-2014, 12:54
Has anybody tried the iFI Audio iPurifier? http://www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/computer-audio/862-ifi-audio-ipurifier.html
Any good?
I'd expect that one of these ( which i use) does the same job. Totally elimates all noise from PC
https://electronics-shop.dk/?id=1038%20%20could
One of these would also do the job too and seem pretty cost effective
http://hifimediy.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=122
Unless you can actually hear the Computer noise, which will be quite audible if you have a problem I personally wouldn't bother. I had issues with a bad laptop PSU which was injecting audible noise, I solved this by breaking the electrical connection to the DAC and using toslink instead.
As for claims of 'injecting analogue into the USB' I get a strong odor of horses**t ! They also seem to recommend you use this with their other USB thing and their special cable... Hmmmmm
Has anybody tried the iFI Audio iPurifier? http://www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/computer-audio/862-ifi-audio-ipurifier.html
Any good?
Not seen this one before, I use the iFi USB Power between my SBTouch and MDAC, and rate it highly...
EDIT; just spotted that it can be used in conjunction with the iFi Power, doh more potential expense :doh:
Double doh! and the bloody 2 headed cable!!! Time for a lie down....
john dolan
19-02-2014, 06:44
I also use a iFi USB Power between my SBTouch and MDAC really does all that's claimed of it great little thing it is and its also a good psu for the SBT.
I also use a iFi USB Power between my SBTouch and MDAC really does all that's claimed of it great little thing it is and its also a good psu for the SBT.
Hi John, likewise...
Given how pleased I am with the iFi USB Power I took the plunge, I just can't help myself ;)
And in true 'non scientific' style I've installed both the 'Gemini' cable and the 'Purifier' at the same time...I'm afraid I didn't have enough patience to be systematic.
The chain is now SBTouch (EDO)/Mark Grant BOBW PSU/Belkin Passive USB hub/Kimber USB 0.5m/iFi USB Power/iFi Gemini/iFi Purifier/MDAC (level 2 'Toy' upgrade)...
FYI I'm probably going to switch out the Kimber for other purposes (It was where the Gemini now is), as I think the USB cable supplied with the iFi Power will be fine for 'upstream' uses.
I'm now on day 2, and haven't had a great deal of time for a serious listen, but I've heard enough to be happy with my decision, the mid range seems to have more focus, and it's somehow more relaxing and believable to listen to...
Perhaps I just had a better smoke and a bottle of wine than usual, so I'll wait for a while before committing myself fully...:)
As to whether it's the 'Gemini', the 'Purifier', or both, that have made the improvement I'm afraid I couldn't
say, I may do some regression testing at some point, but right now I'm looking forward to a more serious listen...once the champions league games are out of the way...:cool:
john dolan
19-02-2014, 12:52
I have CDs ripped lossless flac on a Synology nas SBT using EDO into iFi USB Power into M-dac and Sbooster linear psu powering SBT.
Also into M-dac I have Cyrus StreamX and compared both playing the same music at the same time by just changing input on the dac and the result is the SBT is now just as good as the Cyrus.
The EDO and iFi USB Power raise the SBT performance to match or better the expensive streamers.
hey guys, can i ask where you bought your ifi kit from?
The more I read threads like this, the more I'm inclined to believe some of the accusations which are levelled at this forum.
mr sneff
19-02-2014, 13:40
hey guys, can i ask where you bought your ifi kit from?
The more I read threads like this, the more I'm inclined to believe some of the accusations which are levelled at this forum.
What accusations?
john dolan
19-02-2014, 13:41
hey guys, can i ask where you bought your ifi kit from?
The more I read threads like this, the more I'm inclined to believe some of the accusations which are levelled at this forum.
Got mine here
http://www.amazon.co.uk/iFi-Micro-iUSB-Power-Supply/dp/B00AU07NZA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1392817202&sr=8-1&keywords=ifi+iusb
Im a retired Railman and have never worked in the hifi industry.
What accusations?
I'd love to help you here mate but its probably best if folks make their own minds up, so I'll hold my counsel or head over to 'critics corner' where this probably belongs.
Got mine here
http://www.amazon.co.uk/iFi-Micro-iUSB-Power-Supply/dp/B00AU07NZA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1392817202&sr=8-1&keywords=ifi+iusb
Im a retired Railman and have never worked in the hifi industry.
Good stuff John, if it does the trick mate then its worth the money.
john dolan
19-02-2014, 14:02
Here is a pic of my system if you zoom in to the left you can see the ifi
http://i58.tinypic.com/1zmh5bd.jpg
I use my real name im no shill you can see that's my hifi I posted a pic of in the my new rack post.
hey guys, can i ask where you bought your ifi kit from?
The more I read threads like this, the more I'm inclined to believe some of the accusations which are levelled at this forum.
Sounds like you're the one with an agenda...The O/P asked a straightforward enough question, aren't we allowed to answer?
FYI My profession for the last 35 years (including my degree) has been within IT, specifically Data Architecture, so I have no connection with the HiFi industry...I wonder if you have?
In answer to your question I bought my iFi gear from 'Analogue Seduction' initially directly, and the last 2 components via Amazon.
Reliable data transfer protocols can deliver 'Bit Perfect' (confirmed by MDAC supplied test files) data streams from my central Linux server right into the asynchronous buffer of my MDAC, with or without the iFi Power and accessories, but it sounds clearly better with. So there are obviously other factors at work here as we enter the analogue/DAC domain.
Below you can see a couple of rubbish photos from my old Desire, my S4 is unwell...
iFi USB Power is top right on the first photo, and the second just about shows the Gemini into the Purifier at the back of the MDAC
1160511606
I'd expect that one of these ( which i use) does the same job. Totally elimates all noise from PC
https://electronics-shop.dk/?id=1038%20%20could
One of these would also do the job too and seem pretty cost effective
http://hifimediy.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=122
Unless you can actually hear the Computer noise, which will be quite audible if you have a problem I personally wouldn't bother. I had issues with a bad laptop PSU which was injecting audible noise, I solved this by breaking the electrical connection to the DAC and using toslink instead.
As for claims of 'injecting analogue into the USB' I get a strong odor of horses**t ! They also seem to recommend you use this with their other USB thing and their special cable... Hmmmmm
P.S. I also own both of the above devices, the HiFimeDIY is with its asynchronous partner in my economy, grease proof, Kitchen SBTouch setup, and the danish USB isolator is now confined to office use with my rPAC, as it made no improvement to the SQ of my MDAC compared to the iFi Power.
As to 'Analogue Sound' I'd have to agree with you there, it sounds like marketing bullshit, what on earth does that mean? I prefer the term 'Better'...
mr sneff
19-02-2014, 19:16
I'd love to help you here mate but its probably best if folks make their own minds up, so I'll hold my counsel or head over to 'critics corner' where this probably belongs.
Some sort of 'accusations' are being suggested, but there is (apparently) a reluctance to say what they are. How is it possible to decide if the 'accusations' are justified or not if they're not stated? As the O/P the question was genuine, and as another poster says, 'straightforward'; I've never worked in the Hi Fi industry and have no connection with MCRU or iFi. Hope that clarifies things :)
Is there anyone else out there using the 'Purifier'?
I think I'm experiencing a 'glitch' of some sort, and I think it may be down to the purifier...
My MDAC & therefore 'Purifier' sit directly above my Audiolab Q, which is normally turned off unless I'm listening to AV or my TT, I use a switch to use either the MDAC or Q as pre amp. I keep my SBTouch and MDAC on at all times.
Since having the Purifier (& Gemini cable for that matter, it could be the culprit too) the connection between the SBTouch and MDAC has dropped out twice, my suspicion is that this occurred when I turned on my Q, it certainly did on one of the occasions.
I suspect the Purifier as I could only re-establish connectivity by physically unplugging it for a few seconds and re-connecting it, the normal recycle of MDAC and SBTouch did not resolve it, and given that the 'Purifier' is 'active' the act of unplugging must have somehow reset it.
I've given 'Analogue seduction' a call and they haven't had any similar feedback, but given the newness of the product that's unsurprising.
I'll keep my eye on it and see if I can pin down the issue, I may have a duff one, or there may be a more fundamental problem...:scratch:
Well I appear to have identified the 'Glitch'...Operator error I'm afraid :doh:
The 'Gemini' and 'Purifier' combined make quite a long 'assembly', and therefore sag a little out of the rear of the MDAC, I'd built a little support for the purifier out of a trimmed down wine cork (check out the earlier photos)...error! it was this that was conveying vibrations to the purifier, and occasionally dropping the signal to the MDAC.
With my 'Bodge' removed things are fine from a connectivity point of view...:)
This swapping of components has now given me a better insight into the relative effects of the 'Gemini' and the 'Purifier'.
'iFi Gemini Cable' - Gives you a little more of what the iPower was providing in the first place, but at nearly the same price as the iPower itself one has to question the outright value, despite it being well made and presented. I'll keep mine, but not sure as to how I'd advise others on a budget, there are probably better improvements for the money.
'iFi Purifier' - Now that the connectivity issues are resolved I can concentrate on the SQ effects of the iPurifier. Firstly I think the success of this device will be rather system dependant, so try before buy would be my advice. I really like it in my system, it's a bit like an 'Anti Glare' effect on digital music, particularly in the mid range area...it's a more 'believable' sound. Hence my enthusiasm for correcting any connection 'Glitches', I want to keep it in the chain...
As I said I imagine the 'Purifier' success or otherwise will be very system/room dependant...but the effect I'm experiencing is well worth the £80;)
P.S. I'm still trying to find out what it is/does, there's not a great deal of info, other than marketing bollox...
P.S. I'm still trying to find out what it is/does, there's not a great deal of info, other than marketing bollox...
I'm still no closer to answering that question, but one small piece of info, with the 'Purifier' in place I still pass the MDAC 'bit perfect' test...so whatever it's doing it's not altering the data stream, which is nice :scratch:
I'm still no closer to answering that question, but one small piece of info, with the 'Purifier' in place I still pass the MDAC 'bit perfect' test...so whatever it's doing it's not altering the data stream, which is nice :scratch:
Isn't it just a galvanic isolator or some kind in a fancy package. I no longer use the one I had as a new 'cheap' mains block seems to have sorted the noise on my second system. I did however give it to the keyboard player in my band and it works a treat for stopping his noisy laptop from audibly polluting his 5 keyboard mix.
Like I say, if you actually can't hear the noise in the first place then I can't really grasp what benefits these products a would have.
starbucksboss
02-03-2014, 14:24
I'd love to help you here mate but its probably best if folks make their own minds up, so I'll hold my counsel or head over to 'critics corner' where this probably belongs.
Oh yeah...got yer drift mate...gotcha...I love counsel...can't beat a good bit of counsel I've always said...
( anyone know what he's on...looks like could be good stuff ???)
Isn't it just a galvanic isolator or some kind in a fancy package. I no longer use the one I had as a new 'cheap' mains block seems to have sorted the noise on my second system. I did however give it to the keyboard player in my band and it works a treat for stopping his noisy laptop from audibly polluting his 5 keyboard mix.
Like I say, if you actually can't hear the noise in the first place then I can't really grasp what benefits these products a would have.
For someone with no experience of a particular product you're extremely forthcoming with advice about it...:doh:
Like I say, if you actually can't hear the noise in the first place then I can't really grasp what benefits these products a would have.
You should try testing some Richard as they most definitely do make a difference and you might grasp it then? Its not so much 'hearing noise' as you put it, but more dealing with electrical noise/interference in the chain, which has an impact on the quality of the digital data-stream going to the DAC, especially if you are using USB. Its more to do with ripple or unwanted "noise" artefacts in the DC output and by either eliminating or isolating it, provides a much cleaner and pleasing sound - its more to do with what you can't hear as opposed to what you can hear when you get it right ;) I use an ADuM4160 (http://www.circuitsathome.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/USB_Isolator-288x216.jpg) board at the moment, which is the same principle as the iFi (a lot cheaper) and I see one of the products linked to earlier also uses an ADuM USB isolator chip.
I understood perfectly well what you were alluding too earlier and those that know me will know my personal feelings about 'certain trade members', but on this occasion I will say that I didn't get that impression at all from the OP, so that comment seems a little unfair on both the OP and our trade membership. You should experiment with power and USB isolation and you don't have to spend a fortune, but they do have audible benefits and the iFi is a well designed bit of kit that looks a lot less Heath Robinson than my current configuration and most people just want a product they can plug in and use, so the iFi line-up of products fits that bill.
Try one, you might be surprised, but ultimately if you are happy with what you have, then stick with that.
You should try some testing Richard as they most definitely do make a difference and you might grasp it then? Its no so much 'hearing noise' as you put it, more electrical noise/interference in the chain, which has an impact on the quality of the digital data-stream going to the DAC if you are using USB. Its more to do with ripple or unwanted "noise" artefacts in the DC output and either eliminating or isolating it provides a much cleaner and pleasing sound - its more to do with what you can't hear as opposed to what you can hear when you get it right ;) I use an ADuM4160 (http://www.circuitsathome.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/USB_Isolator-288x216.jpg) board at the moment, which is the same principle as the iFi (a lot cheaper) and I see one of the products linked to earlier also uses an ADuM USB isolator chip.
I understood perfectly well what you were alluding too earlier and those that know me will know my personal feelings about 'certain trade members', but on this occasion I will say that I did not get that impression at all from the OP, so that comment seems a little unfair on both the OP and our trade membership. You should experiment with power and USB isolation and you don't have to spend a fortune, but they do have audible benefits and the iFi is a well designed bit of kit that looks a lot less Heath Robinson than my current configuration and most people just want a product they can plug in and use, so the iFi line-up of products fits that bill.
Try one, you might be surprised, but ultimately if you are happy with what you have, then stick with that.
Elegantly put Tim, I lack your diplomatic skills...or patience ;)
mr sneff
09-03-2014, 20:22
I've been doing a bit of experimenting with my setup and discovered that the source of noise on the system is the switch mode PSU for the laptop. On battery operation there is no audible noise at all, even with the preamp turned up full. Music sounds cleaner and imaging is better as well. So I'm thinking that I'll stick with what I have and save the cost of buying an iPurifier. As Richard said in the 2nd post "Unless you can actually hear the Computer noise, which will be quite audible if you have a problem I personally wouldn't bother." I'd also agree that the claim that the iPurifier injects analogue into the USB is spurious - how can analogue be introduced into a digital output?
Oh yeah...got yer drift mate...gotcha...I love counsel...can't beat a good bit of counsel I've always said...
( anyone know what he's on...looks like could be good stuff ???)
Counsel - as in advice , especially given formally. I don't think you do get it.
For someone with no experience of a particular product you're extremely forthcoming with advice about it...:doh:
So if we don't buy or try the product we can't offer an opinion on its metrits or the claims made by its manufacturer/distributer. e.g. I have invented a time machine, it really works, nobody may question me on the effectiveness of my time travel technology.
Elegantly put Tim, I lack your diplomatic skills...or patience ;)
Or you are simply awkward
I've been doing a bit of experimenting with my setup and discovered that the source of noise on the system is the switch mode PSU for the laptop. On battery operation there is no audible noise at all, even with the preamp turned up full. Music sounds cleaner and imaging is better as well. So I'm thinking that I'll stick with what I have and save the cost of buying an iPurifier. As Richard said in the 2nd post "Unless you can actually hear the Computer noise, which will be quite audible if you have a problem I personally wouldn't bother." I'd also agree that the claim that the iPurifier injects analogue into the USB is spurious - how can analogue be introduced into a digital output?
Yes, that was precisely the problem I had. A number of cost effective solutions I found were a) a new PSU for the laptop (2pin Kensington style), b) breaking the electrical connection between the PC and the DAC with an optical cable, c) a reasonably priced galvanic isolator. I apologise if my previous post was accusatory. I've just become a little jaded with some of the promotion I believe occurs here, in suggesting your post was supporting it I have overstepped my mark. This is why I chose to refrain from further comment and keep the thread to the subject matter.
You should try testing some Richard as they most definitely do make a difference and you might grasp it then? Its not so much 'hearing noise' as you put it, but more dealing with electrical noise/interference in the chain, which has an impact on the quality of the digital data-stream going to the DAC, especially if you are using USB. Its more to do with ripple or unwanted "noise" artefacts in the DC output and by either eliminating or isolating it, provides a much cleaner and pleasing sound - its more to do with what you can't hear as opposed to what you can hear when you get it right ;) I use an ADuM4160 (http://www.circuitsathome.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/USB_Isolator-288x216.jpg) board at the moment, which is the same principle as the iFi (a lot cheaper) and I see one of the products linked to earlier also uses an ADuM USB isolator chip.
I understood perfectly well what you were alluding too earlier and those that know me will know my personal feelings about 'certain trade members', but on this occasion I will say that I didn't get that impression at all from the OP, so that comment seems a little unfair on both the OP and our trade membership. You should experiment with power and USB isolation and you don't have to spend a fortune, but they do have audible benefits and the iFi is a well designed bit of kit that looks a lot less Heath Robinson than my current configuration and most people just want a product they can plug in and use, so the iFi line-up of products fits that bill.
Try one, you might be surprised, but ultimately if you are happy with what you have, then stick with that.
No argument from me there Tim, I have experimented with USB isolation and found the one I suggested to be really good at reducing audible noise. However once I'd found the source of the noise, a bad power strip on my second PC, I could discern no further benefits and passed the device on to my keyboard playing friend who considers it essential part of his gigging kit.
I'm a big advocate of clean power and the best sounding USB DACs I've heard have always been independently powered, i've recently put my money where my mouth is and bought the hifimediy uae23+ with the separate power supply. Its a fantastic bit of kit and one of the most 'natural' sounding DACs I've heard. All for less than the cost of the ifi isolator product, that's before you've added the Gemini cable and the ifi USB power brick. So my advice (or counsel if you will:lol:) would be to avoid the USB powered DACs altogether and perhaps avoid the very problem the device supposedly cured.
To RichB;
About 2 years ago I shared your simplistic theories and beliefs, bits are just bits etc...But time and personal experience (and that's the important bit) have left me with a slightly more open mind
The original question was about the iFi Purifier, not an isolator, not a PSU, but something else. Now as the only person on this thread to actually have heard one I feel my observations have slightly more weight than your hypothetical navel gazing...if you want to continue your theorising feel free, but one of the aspects of AOS I'd previously enjoyed was the respect given to first hand experience over subjective speculation...if you want to carry on that kind of pseudo philosophical debate get yourself over to PFM.
Previously I was a very active contributor to AOS, but nowerdays I really can't be bothered since the arrival of people like yourself...you initially attacked myself and others as being disingenuous, and now continue to display your crass lack of knowledge or comprehension.
1. The iFi Purifier is not an isolator
2. The MDAC is not USB powered
3. You have effectively called me and other members of this forum liars
I have absolutely no interest or involvement with the product in question other than as a consumer, it makes a tangible improvement to the sound quality of my system, when and if you ever get round to trying it come back and give me your opinions, shit or otherwise...
OK rant over, time for some facts, if anyone's interested...:doh:
I'd think twice about the iFi Purifier if you're using an SBTouch and MDAC combo, I continue to get the occasional disconnect between Touch and DAC every now and then (2 or 3 per week). It may be due to attempting to synchronise with my kitchen SBTouch/HiFimeDIY combo, the only other thing that's recently changed, or perhaps the iFi Purifier is faulty...anyway analogue seduction are sending another over when the get them back in stock...apparently I'm not the only deluded deaf idiot in the country, they've been selling like hot cakes. ;)
mr sneff
15-03-2014, 16:42
OK rant over, time for some facts, if anyone's interested...:doh:
I'd think twice about the iFi Purifier if you're using an SBTouch and MDAC combo, I continue to get the occasional disconnect between Touch and DAC every now and then (2 or 3 per week). It may be due to attempting to synchronise with my kitchen SBTouch/HiFimeDIY combo, the only other thing that's recently changed, or perhaps the iFi Purifier is faulty...anyway analogue seduction are sending another over when the get them back in stock...apparently I'm not the only deluded deaf idiot in the country, they've been selling like hot cakes. ;)
Hi Will, given those caveats, do you feel that the iPurifier gives a worthwhile improvement in SQ?
Hi David,
On my system, with my kit, ... yes!
But is it worthwhile? Given that it craps out the DAC to streamer link every couple of days I'd say no...But I'd say that it's worth trying if you have the chance!
not sure where the problem stems from, perhaps its just fine for some, but not for me in the long term...unless I can fix the connection issues
I'm going to lave the SBTouch/MDAC system unsynchronised from the kitchen SBTouch/HiFimeDIY U2 one for a while, perhaps that's where the connection issues stem from...otherwise I'll try an alternative purifier.
One further complication is that my LMS linux server is recycled over night, this may also add to the connection issues...however I've been running like this for years and not suffered these issues until the arrival of the purifier...so it's buyer beware at the moment.
In the interest of balance, the chap at analogue seduction has had no similar feedback at this point...so mine may just be a duff one
I'd expect that one of these ( which i use) does the same job. Totally elimates all noise from PC
https://electronics-shop.dk/?id=1038%20%20could
One of these would also do the job too and seem pretty cost effective
http://hifimediy.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=122
Unless you can actually hear the Computer noise, which will be quite audible if you have a problem I personally wouldn't bother. I had issues with a bad laptop PSU which was injecting audible noise, I solved this by breaking the electrical connection to the DAC and using toslink instead.
As for claims of 'injecting analogue into the USB' I get a strong odor of horses**t ! They also seem to recommend you use this with their other USB thing and their special cable... Hmmmmm
Thanks again just ordered one of the https://electronics-shop.dk/?id=1038%20%20could devices, looks the part for sure.
I have one of those, it regenerates the 5v line.....not very cleanly I'm afraid...
I have one of those, it regenerates the 5v line.....not very cleanly I'm afraid...
Agreed, mine's relegated to my work kit where it seems to help reduce some of the 'clicks' of a 'working' computer, however I really couldn't notice any improvement between my SBTouch and MDAC in my main setup.
Thanks gents will probably just send it back then... in fact they cancelled my order due to address discrepancies, will leave it at that!
Will - You've got me all wrong, I clearly cant influence how personally you want to take all this but I'd suggest turning down your senistivity meter. Reading your posts it sounds to me like you've got a bit of expectation bias when it comes to all the devices discussed here in terms of how much they can improve SQ. I cant imagine why you'd expect any kind of isolator/purifier to make an improvement between a SBT and MDAC since neither draws its power from USB. Personally I'd say if you wanted electronic isolation between these two devices would an optical cable not suffice? Failing that, a USB-SPDIF converter, my V-Link II works well well enough with SBT using EDO but given the SBT already has an optical output it doesnt sound any better than SBT straight to my DAC. Not sure why you think I'm calling you or the others guys liars either. I raised my concerns, you all responded. Haven't we moved on?
My main issue here remains one of discerning what this purifier actually does, it seems we all agree that 'injecting analgoue into the USB' sounds like BS so my questions back to you, in good faith and from genuine interest is, what did you expect it to do? Why did you feel it a necessary purchase? From some of your other posts it sounds like you've been less than impressed with its impact in your system (drop outs and such). What made you think the USB output on the SBT would be better than the others and why wouldn't you use them if you had the choice?
I know you'd like to paint me as some kind of simplistic 'cables and bits dont make a difference' type of guy but that couldnt be further from the truth. My experiences and experiments with all manner of stuff from USB and network cables, to streaming solutions, to media players is all well documented here so I can't let you get away with that mate.
I have one of those, it regenerates the 5v line.....not very cleanly I'm afraid...
Can you describe 'not very cleanly' please? Were there audible issues after you'd installed and of what kind? The device I used made a very noisy PC totally silent.
Rich
For sensitivity read impatience, I've been down this digital audio path for the best part of ten years...
Optical v coax v USB (whether asynchronous or not), are issues that I've happily resolved some time ago, particularly with regard to the MDAC...I'll take John Westlake's advice over yours in that area thanks ;)
As for 'expectation bias', thanks for your concern, but I'm a big boy now, and don't need saving from myself...my ears are my ultimate judge
If you want to start a more generic thread about expectation bias, subjectivism v objectivism, and general pseudo philosophy feel free...but this was a response to a specific question about a specific component...that I happen to own, use, and listen to!
Lets agree to disagree Rich...life's too short :)
john dolan
22-03-2014, 16:52
Ive just ordered one of these
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Micro-iTube-Tube-Buffer-Stage/dp/B00EPX0V66/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395502695&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=ifi+vlave+buffer
Will use it with my AS Passion passive.
mr sneff
22-03-2014, 17:59
Ive just ordered one of these
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Micro-iTube-Tube-Buffer-Stage/dp/B00EPX0V66/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395502695&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=ifi+vlave+buffer
Will use it with my AS Passion passive.
Interesting, John, hope you post your impressions on the forum when you've had a chance to assess it.
john dolan
23-03-2014, 08:52
Interesting, John, hope you post your impressions on the forum when you've had a chance to assess it.
Wont bother ill just be called a shill lol.
technobear
23-03-2014, 10:18
Ive just ordered one of these
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Micro-iTube-Tube-Buffer-Stage/dp/B00EPX0V66/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395502695&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=ifi+vlave+buffer
Will use it with my AS Passion passive.
It's one or the other. The iTUBE already includes a voltage controlled stepped attenuator - the signal does not pass through the volume pot - so the iTUBE is a very transparent preamp and the Passion won't be needed.
If you are buying the iTUBE purely to use as a buffer, personally I would say don't bother because it makes no difference to the sound that I can hear (from a CDQ through an iCAN and Beyerdynamic T1's).
As a single input preamp the iTUBE is very good. The digital antidote does nothing that I can hear but that could be because the Optimal Transient filter in the CDQ already does such a terrific job in that area. The 3D feature works well and is interesting if you are using a desktop or nearfield setup.
john dolan
23-03-2014, 11:28
I will be using it just as a buffer with my Passion passive.
I cant see any preamp beating the Passion tbh plus I need the extra inputs for other sources.
Pic of the inside of my AS Passion
http://i58.tinypic.com/347dye1.png
The digital antidote does nothing that I can hear but that could be because the Optimal Transient filter in the CDQ already does such a terrific job in that area.
Hi Chris, I wonder if the 'Digital Antidote' function within the iTube is an integrated 'Purifier'...the advertising blurb looks similar!
I use OT/XD with my MDAC, which OT filter do you use with the CDQ? My guess is that the purifier is some form of filter...
Update; I've not had any connection issues for over a week now, and that's been with a combination of 'stand alone' and 'synchronised', perhaps I had some EDO configuration inconsistencies between the 2 SBTouches being synchronised, the act of reconfiguring them seems to resolved my problem.
So it would appear that the purifier was not the cause of my connection issues...
Rich
For sensitivity read impatience, I've been down this digital audio path for the best part of ten years...
Optical v coax v USB (whether asynchronous or not), are issues that I've happily resolved some time ago, particularly with regard to the MDAC...I'll take John Westlake's advice over yours in that area thanks ;)
As for 'expectation bias', thanks for your concern, but I'm a big boy now, and don't need saving from myself...my ears are my ultimate judge
If you want to start a more generic thread about expectation bias, subjectivism v objectivism, and general pseudo philosophy feel free...but this was a response to a specific question about a specific component...that I happen to own, use, and listen to!
Lets agree to disagree Rich...life's too short :)
Irrespective of what advice you think I've imparted I'd be genuinely interested to know Mr Westlake's view if that has informed your decision to use the USB output of the SBT. If you can find your way to sharing that would be of benefit to us all I'm certain. Like yourself I'm after the best possible sound and trust my ears. To me the USB output, via a hub as recommended, was certainly no better than the optical or indeed the coax. If I've missed something here I am interested to know what it is.
As for the purifier, well I'm still none the wiser as to what it actually does. As a user can you enlighten me?
Wont bother ill just be called a shill lol.
If this thread has gone sour for you might I suggest you start another and put this new device in proper context.
technobear
26-03-2014, 07:45
To me the USB output, via a hub as recommended, was certainly no better than the optical or indeed the coax. If I've missed something here I am interested to know what it is.
Are you still using Beresford Caimans? It is well known that the USB implementation on the Caiman is adaptive and of the 'afterthought' variety (i.e. it's not very good).
See if you can borrow an M-DAC or rDAC / irDAC or V90-DAC - something with asynchronous USB.
Having said that, it should be remembered that the SB Touch is a pretty good S/P-DIF source. If you want to improve on it, get a Transporter and keep using the Caimans.
Are you still using Beresford Caimans? It is well known that the USB implementation on the Caiman is adaptive and of the 'afterthought' variety (i.e. it's not very good).
See if you can borrow an M-DAC or rDAC / irDAC or V90-DAC - something with asynchronous USB.
Having said that, it should be remembered that the SB Touch is a pretty good S/P-DIF source. If you want to improve on it, get a Transporter and keep using the Caimans.
Hi Chris, I have 2 DACs at the moment, a Rega (in which USB is very much an afterthought) and a Sabre USB DAC with separate PSU. I did try the USB output to my Vlink II and then to the DAC which worked fine but again was no improvement over the SBT to DAC via toslink or coax. On the other hand, with my laptop the Vlink is a great improvement. I guess the SBT doesn't have so many inherent noise or jitter issues as a PC.
The thing I'm trying to get to the bottom of is why folks would choose to use the USB output of the SBT if their DAC were capable of taking other inputs. If the answer is simply they believe if sounds better then I'll have to take that. We are a subjectivist bunch after all.
Irrespective of what advice you think I've imparted I'd be genuinely interested to know Mr Westlake's view if that has informed your decision to use the USB output of the SBT. If you can find your way to sharing that would be of benefit to us all I'm certain. Like yourself I'm after the best possible sound and trust my ears. To me the USB output, via a hub as recommended, was certainly no better than the optical or indeed the coax. If I've missed something here I am interested to know what it is.
As for the purifier, well I'm still none the wiser as to what it actually does. As a user can you enlighten me?
Take a trawl through the 'MDAC First Listen' threads on PFM...John is coordinating both support and upgrades from there
As Chris states USB offers the capability of asynchronous data transfer, thereby removing streamer and DAC clock timing issues, i.e. the DAC's clock is used...my MDAC, rPAC, and HiFimeDIY U2 DACs are all asynchronous, and I use the USB connection with them, unlike my Beresford where I still use the Coax...
If you use USB then be aware of isolation...as for your other questions they've been answered elsewhere, if you care to read the earlier posts.
I use OT/XD with my MDAC, which OT filter do you use with the CDQ?
...Oops! Stupid question...given that OT,OT/XD, and OT/DD are options on the MDAC too...:doh:
technobear
01-04-2014, 12:52
It's one or the other. The iTUBE already includes a voltage controlled stepped attenuator - the signal does not pass through the volume pot - so the iTUBE is a very transparent preamp and the Passion won't be needed.
If you are buying the iTUBE purely to use as a buffer, personally I would say don't bother because it makes no difference to the sound that I can hear (from a CDQ through an iCAN and Beyerdynamic T1's).
As a single input preamp the iTUBE is very good. The digital antidote does nothing that I can hear but that could be because the Optimal Transient filter in the CDQ already does such a terrific job in that area. The 3D feature works well and is interesting if you are using a desktop or nearfield setup.
Oops! I'm wrong about the iTUBE volume control. It's only the nano iDSD that uses a voltage controlled 64-step attenuator. The iTUBE used a volume pot, albeit a good one.
john dolan
01-04-2014, 14:55
The iTUBE sounded poor and distorted badly and when I turned up the volume it didn't increase.
Must of been DOA so have sent it back for a refund.
technobear
02-04-2014, 10:00
The iTUBE sounded poor and distorted badly and when I turned up the volume it didn't increase.
Must of been DOA so have sent it back for a refund.
Did you set the jumper switches correctly? It has fixed as well as variable volume modes.
john dolan
02-04-2014, 10:30
Did you set the jumper switches correctly? It has fixed as well as variable volume modes.
It comes as standard set to work as buffer direct with 0 gain and I got my brother to check the jumper switches as im near blind and they were set this way.
I also changed cables and still pure distortion and when I turned up the volume on my passive it sound didn't increase.
I changed my passive for my Glasshouse TVC still the same and even tried it in another system.
Even if I had the jumper settings wrong it shouldn't output pure distortion.It was just DOA shit happens I was just unlucky but it tainted the experience so I asked for refund rather than another unit.
Im still waiting for the refund by the way from Amazon.
iFi Purifier has been sent back and refunded by Analogue Seduction...my connectivity issues were getting worse, simply turning on my AV amp with a remote would affect the connectivity between my SBTouch and MDAC.
Moving my MDAC to OT/DD from OT/XT gives a very similar effect, so I'm tending to agree with Techno on this one, so it's probably some form of digital filter.
The chaps at Analogue Seduction tested mine and found no problems, so I wonder if others have experienced similar issues :eyebrows:
Anyway the money has now been invested in some new Mark Grant interconnects...to better effect :cool:
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