View Full Version : Raspberry pi and the delights of invisible media!
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 00:14
So, today I finally managed, with lots of instruction by Mikeyb, (thanks for the loan!) to connect a Raspberry pi to my system, install some music files on a usb flash drive and listen to the result.*
I have to say, I am totally dumbstruck.*
I've resisted the lure of these Pi's mainly due to my lack of understanding and in part because I was highly dubious about how well it could actually perform.*
I am regretting not trying one earlier.*
Ok, I probably would have made it through the install and possibly made it work but it was a lot easier with a guide. I am pretty sure that any reasonable person can do this with the help of a couple of YouTube vids. So if it's holding you back from trying it, bite the bullet.*
On to the spec.*
This is a Pi 2 I believe, with Allo Boss DAC hat. I haven't heard anything else from any Pi related companies so I'll just judge it on its own merits.*
The sound is really very very good. Better than any CD player I've had for sure. Soundstage is massive. And I mean "rivaling the vinyl" massive. It's abundantly detailed and yet sufferers no glare or harshness whatsoever. It's has Excellent fluidity and the music flows as it should. Vocals sound excellent too. Human like rather than organic, but I did forget on numerous occasions that I was listening to the pi and not the vinyl.*
Bass is tight and intrinsically displayed. Finger slides, feet buzz and the snappy hits of the strings, ring through and the texture really is impressive.*
The highs float across my room like waves of light catching the dust in the air and the filigree catches your attention.*
It's the mids that hold the magic though. Lots of tone and timbre. It really is very good.*
Performer placement is not as precise as the Vinyl or the Sony CDP for that matter, however, this is a minor issue and certainly not something id write it off for. It not smeared either just not as easy to pick people out. I'd put this down to not imaging as well as the analogue rig.*
The only other minor niggle is that cybals on occasion seem to escape the control and lose a bit of tone. Sometimes they sound a little splashy. Not always, just now and again. Not majorly splashy, just not as wholesome as vinyl. I may be a little harsh on that point but I thought it so I wrote it. It's also entirely plausible that it's the recording and not the Pi*
Would I buy a Raspberry pi and have it installed in my system?
Definitely.*
I never ever thought I'd invest in digital but this has really opened my eyes. It's not Vinyl, it's different. Not worse either, just a different approach to music replay that actually still sounded like a believable performance. Not mechanical, not artificial just music.*
Total price of the package I have here is about £80. That is just ridiculous for what I am hearing.*
A linear PSU will set you back and extra £50ish and I suspect it may be worth going that extra step.*
I am now reading about isolator boards which galvanically isolates the DAC from the pi. This could be a major play in SQ and at £150 for the board (from Allo), it's starting to get into dedicated DAC territory.*
Will I venture into that with the Pi?
Its a possibility. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190106/315cd650b5b49da8008935c3d366a1f0.jpg
WESTLOWER
06-01-2019, 00:39
You’ll never leave the sofa again. Someone may find you in the distant future with 16,341 tracks playing on loop.
The year will be 2021...:D
Stop describing it in terms of HiFi ‘speak”, what does it improve upon musically from your CDP? (BTW they are good aren’t they!)
sq225917
06-01-2019, 01:01
Yes please use old flat earth sales pitch speak only, its so much more applicable in this post flat response magazine era...
Eh...?
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:11
Stop describing it in terms of HiFi ‘speak”, what does it improve upon musically from your CDP? (BTW they are good aren’t they!)Ok........
Pi v CDP
Pi improvements over the CDP:
Soundscape. The width and hight of the sound produced extended beyond the limits of the speakers. Seems to create a feeling of listening to much bigger speakers.
Dynamics: the pi sounds more lively, more dramatic. Maybe even a little over the top. Like it need a snickers but it's great.
Stack and decay: piano notes last longer as the decay is easily heard, fading slowly rather than kind of, disappearing. Leading edges on the piano also sound very sharp and precise. Indicate no treble roll off or rounded sound. Not sure how you'd like me to describe that bit? Just quicker and cleaner.
Ease of use: never leave your arm chair again ! The sheer number of tracks available at your fingertips is superb.
CDP improvement over the Pi
Imaging: whilst the soundstage is smaller, it's easier to pick out the individual performers. They seem a little more realistic or 3 dimensional.
I'll add to this as I listen further.
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:16
You’ll never leave the sofa again. Someone may find you in the distant future with 16,341 tracks playing on loop.
The year will be 2021...:DLol, it is addictive too. Finding myself listening to stuff I haven't heard for yonks. I have limited myself a little with the vinyl setup due to not wanting to hear what digital has done here before. This is a different experience. I thoroughly enjoyed bit. A tough task but it's achieved something 6 DACs and 8 cd players couldn't. Enjoyment.
I will add that the only reason I even attempted this was due to the Sony CD player I have. Macca left it with me and I have been using it, bought a few CDs and enjoyed them.
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:17
Yes please use old flat earth sales pitch speak only, its so much more applicable in this post flat response magazine era...
Eh...?I've tried.......hope it's clearer [emoji848]
AJSki2fly
06-01-2019, 07:40
I've tried.......hope it's clearer [emoji848]
Oliver, I think you summed it up very well, much the same as my personal experience having bitted the Pi/DAC/Caiman SEG DAC bullet. I presume you have borrowed and not purchased at this stage.
If you decide to go ahead then you had 2 choices really, the route I took and then if your CDP has S/PDIP out you can feed the Caiman SEG DAC or similar external DAC, this is very likely to improve the CD replay(but I am not sure that you have one). Alternatively by a RPi with a higher end DAC card, like ALLO – KATANA DAC or TERRATECHNOS – TERRA-BERRYDAC 2+. If you want to spend a bit less but still get really good SQ I understand that this is a good option RPi with ALLO – KALI I2S RECLOCKER and compatible DAC (have a read https://volumio.org/product/allo-kali-i2s-reclocker/)).
Enjoy sofa sound surfing.
Great to read you've enjoyed digital, it's not the same as vinyl, but the more you listen the more you begin to accept. Are you saying the loaned Sony cdp was the best digital you had heard up until the Pi.
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:49
Oliver, I think you summed it up very well, much the same as my personal experience having bitted the Pi/DAC/Caiman SEG DAC bullet. I presume you have borrowed and not purchased at this stage.
If you decide to go ahead then you had 2 choices really, the route I took and then if your CDP has S/PDIP out you can feed the Caiman SEG DAC or similar external DAC, this is very likely to improve the CD replay(but I am not sure that you have one). Alternatively by a RPi with a higher end DAC card, like ALLO – KATANA DAC or TERRATECHNOS – TERRA-BERRYDAC 2+. If you want to spend a bit less but still get really good SQ I understand that this is a good option RPi with ALLO – KALI I2S RECLOCKER and compatible DAC (have a read https://volumio.org/product/allo-kali-i2s-reclocker/)).
Enjoy sofa sound surfing.Hi Adrian,
I tried a Caiman. Didn't like it. Tried it with the new power thing and still didn't like it. Heard it after a clock mod and again, wasn't for me.
CDP has no spdif so I'll go the way of the pi!
I have now bought a Pi 3+. I have done a deal with mikeyb for his Boss DAC hat and case and I'll stick with that for a while. I am very green about this sort of stuff so before info ploughing head first into something I don't understand, I'll use this rig to learn. Once I am more comfortable, I'll have a look at upgrades etc.
I'll make a bit if the bits you recommend though, thanks for that.
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:49
Great to read you've enjoyed digital, it's not the same as vinyl, but the more you listen the more you begin to accept. Are you saying the loaned Sony cdp was the best digital you had heard up until the Pi.Yes.
It is. Strange that a CDP from yesteryear has been the most enjoyable digital experience but it really is very good to my ears.
Bigman80
06-01-2019, 07:50
It's a Sony........https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190106/fddd3f7a77455b9e957b3e1d926d58ae.jpg
A linear PSU will set you back and extra £50ish and I suspect it may be worth going that extra step.*
I am now reading about isolator boards which galvanically isolates the DAC from the pi. This could be a major play in SQ and at £150 for the board (from Allo), it's starting to get into dedicated DAC territory.*
The Allo Isolator 1.2 is $57, but you may get more improvement initially by giving the Boss its own separate, linear power supply.
Bourneendboy
06-01-2019, 12:03
What about 2x PSU's rather than one with a splitter cable - is there any gains to be had?
What about 2x PSU's rather than one with a splitter cable - is there any gains to be had?
Yes, definitely better with two PSUs. That is, one 5V supply to the RPi and a separate 5V supply to the DAC.
Just for any folk who may not have seen it, here is the Darko video explaining Pi upgrade including dual power supply.
https://darko.audio/2018/11/a-short-film-about-the-allo-digione-signature/
Bourneendboy
06-01-2019, 12:59
Yes, definitely better with two PSUs. That is, one 5V supply to the RPi and a separate 5V supply to the DAC.
Which PSU are you using John?
I have an Ifi and wondering about buying another or a couple of the Allo ones.
Sherwood
06-01-2019, 13:59
I am not surprised by your positive findings. The good news is that the RPi can sound even better. I would listen to the SEG and Dorado again and try some of the different filter options. There are huge improvements to be had by using Audivarna for software upscaling. I use an Allo Digione which has built in isolation and is good enough that I feel no pressure to upgade.
Which PSU are you using John?
I have an Ifi and wondering about buying another or a couple of the Allo ones.
I'm using a couple of the PSUs that can be found on eBay by searching for 'Studer 900 power supply'. I have a single 5V one in a case, and a dual supply on a board. Audiophonics also sell the latter version. A couple of guys posting on diyAudio had good results with them, but buying eBay stuff from China is not everybody's idea of a good idea. I'm happy with mine, but I did have to change a couple of resistors on the dual supply version because the current limiting was set too low.
Are you going to get a HAT for your Pi Oli?
https://www.allo.com/sparky/digione.html reviews look good and a no brainer to up the performance.
Strange that a CDP from yesteryear has been the most enjoyable digital experience but it really is very good to my ears.
I concur, as that's also been my experience, and not strange at all when you understand the valid reasons why!;)
Newest/latest isn't necessarily best, with regards to many things in life, not just hi-fi......
Marco.
Yes, definitely better with two PSUs. That is, one 5V supply to the RPi and a separate 5V supply to the DAC.
...and also run a fully-regulated linear PSU, for the hard-drives supplying music files to the Pi (electrically/mains-generated noise is the biggest enemy of any file-based system, so it should be addressed and minimised *wherever* possible in the replay chain).
Cheapo SMPS units fatally hobble streaming set-ups like you wouldn't imagine. Quite simply, they have no place whatsoever, ANYWHERE, in a high-end audio system!!
Doing the above (in conjunction with installing Supra CAT 8 patch cable, see here: http://www.jenving.com/products/view/cat-8-stp-patch-1001908589 throughout, instead of bog-standard stuff from Maplins) resulted in one of the biggest upgrades I've applied to my streaming set up!:)
Marco.
Are you going to get a HAT for your Pi Oli?
https://www.allo.com/sparky/digione.html reviews look good and a no brainer to up the performance.He's already bought my Allo Boss DAC from the loan I gave him [emoji6]
killie99
07-01-2019, 14:24
Are you going to get a HAT for your Pi Oli?
https://www.allo.com/sparky/digione.html reviews look good and a no brainer to up the performance.
I have a Digione feeding the DAC in my Perreaux 250i (ES9038Pro) and it's stunningly good. I must have tried 7 or 8 HAT Dacs before settling on the Digione. The Digione is fitted to an RPi with screen in an Audiophonics RaspTouch case :
https://www.audiophonics.fr/26577-large_default/rasptouch-i-sabre-es9038q2m-streamer-touch-with-volume-control.jpg
and the music is stored on an SSD connected to an RPi running Logitech LMS. Both have their own linear supplies.
He's already bought my Allo Boss DAC from the loan I gave him [emoji6]
:thumbsup:
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 15:12
Hi Jim,
Yes, Mike and i made a bit of a deal for the DAC for a bit of cable for his Mission arm. Suits us both with minimal cost!
I am immensely impressed with the Allo DAC and Mike suggests his Piano DAC is better so i may try that before i send the rest back lol. Might have to make another deal :lol:
In terms of upgrades, i have a PSU on the way with 2x5v outputs so i can use a powered USB hub with the music files on so i should be fine for some time. Maybe when i a up to speed with all the setup etc, i will have a look at whats comes next.
Hi Jim,
Yes, Mike and i made a bit of a deal for the DAC for a bit of cable for his Mission arm. Suits us both with minimal cost!
I am immensely impressed with the Allo DAC and Mike suggests his Piano DAC is better so i may try that before i send the rest back lol. Might have to make another deal :lol:
In terms of upgrades, i have a PSU on the way with 2x5v outputs so i can use a powered USB hub with the music files on so i should be fine for some time. Maybe when i a up to speed with all the setup etc, i will have a look at whats comes next.
Sounds good plan mate. Ripped files via the Pi should sound great. I found accurately ripped files sounded better than CD.
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 16:03
Sounds good plan mate. Ripped files via the Pi should sound great. I found accurately ripped files sounded better than CD.Well, I'm going to rip a few CDs so it should be ok.
I need to find a solution to connect a HDD. Via a powered usb hub or board.
Anyone know of something suitable?
Interesting thread, guys. I've been intrigued by the Pi since recently hearing one as the main source at the Neat speakers room at October's Toronto audio show. The rep, a very nice fellow from the company's UK HQ, was very keen on it. It sounded excellent. And I must say it sounded quite a bit better than his previous source (PC and DAC) that I heard at the 2017 show, playing through the same speakers. The latter made the tweeter in the speakers (Iota Explorer) sound brittle and harsh, but all was sweet using the Pi. Pretty remarkable difference.
A few questions, if you don't mind (and pardon my lack of knowledge here; I'm starting where Oliver was a few weeks ago... :) )
What are the options for user interface? PC or Mac? Tablet?
Does it sound better than a simple PC --> DAC --> Preamp setup? Reason for this question is that I already have a couple of surplus laptops, and could easily buy a simple good quality DAC for reasonable money and be done with it...plug and play, basically. But if sound quality is superior, then I'd go for the Pi.
Speaking of preamps, mine only has unbalanced RCA inputs - how do I connect a Pi to this?
And speaking of sound quality, have any of the CD players you're comparing it to been modded in any way? i.e. discrete clock boards, op amps, etc.? I have a modded Teac VRDS-10 which had these upgrades done, and it sounds outstanding. It would be interesting to know a bit more about your CD players, just as a frame of reference.
Thanks, and regards,
Svend
Sherwood
07-01-2019, 16:53
+1 in Digione. At its price point the standard Digione is unbeatable vfm!
I have a Digione feeding the DAC in my Perreaux 250i (ES9038Pro) and it's stunningly good. I must have tried 7 or 8 HAT Dacs before settling on the Digione. The Digione is fitted to an RPi with screen in an Audiophonics RaspTouch case :
https://www.audiophonics.fr/26577-large_default/rasptouch-i-sabre-es9038q2m-streamer-touch-with-volume-control.jpg
and the music is stored on an SSD connected to an RPi running Logitech LMS. Both have their own linear supplies.
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 17:05
Interesting thread, guys. I've been intrigued by the Pi since recently hearing one as the main source at the Neat speakers room at October's Toronto audio show. The rep, a very nice fellow from the company's UK HQ, was very keen on it. It sounded excellent. And I must say it sounded quite a bit better than his previous source (PC and DAC) that I heard at the 2017 show, playing through the same speakers. The latter made the tweeter in the speakers (Iota Explorer) sound brittle and harsh, but all was sweet using the Pi. Pretty remarkable difference.
A few questions, if you don't mind (and pardon my lack of knowledge here; I'm starting where Oliver was a few weeks ago... :) )
What are the options for user interface? PC or Mac? Tablet?
Does it sound better than a simple PC --> DAC --> Preamp setup? Reason for this question is that I already have a couple of surplus laptops, and could easily buy a simple good quality DAC for reasonable money and be done with it...plug and play, basically. But if sound quality is superior, then I'd go for the Pi.
Speaking of preamps, mine only has unbalanced RCA inputs - how do I connect a Pi to this?
And speaking of sound quality, have any of the CD players you're comparing it to been modded in any way? i.e. discrete clock boards, op amps, etc.? I have a modded Teac VRDS-10 which had these upgrades done, and it sounds outstanding. It would be interesting to know a bit more about your CD players, just as a frame of reference.
Thanks, and regards,
SvendHi Svend,
The bits I can answer:
The CDs are totally standard. The Cyrus could do with its seperate PSU unit thing to improve its performance but other than that, that's all.
I had a M2tech young DAC. It was good via CD, less so Via USB and laptop. I prefer what I am hearing from the stand alone pi connected to a USB stick.
I need to find a solution to connect a HDD. Via a powered usb hub or board.
Anyone know of something suitable?
I bought a hub from the Pi Hut which powers the HDD and isolates it from the Pi's power line. I think it's been discontinued, but they may have something similar.
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 19:19
I bought a hub from the Pi Hut which powers the HDD and isolates it from the Pi's power line. I think it's been discontinued, but they may have something similar.Cool. Thanks.
I did look at that one I think and it had been discontinued
What are the options for user interface? PC or Mac? Tablet?
Speaking of preamps, mine only has unbalanced RCA inputs - how do I connect a Pi to this?
PC, Mac, Tablet, Smartphone - anything that can run a browser will be OK.
You attach a HAT DAC such as the Allo Boss to the Pi. The DAC will have RCA outputs.
Hi Svend,
The bits I can answer:
The CDs are totally standard. The Cyrus could do with its seperate PSU unit thing to improve its performance but other than that, that's all.
I had a M2tech young DAC. It was good via CD, less so Via USB and laptop. I prefer what I am hearing from the stand alone pi connected to a USB stick.
Thanks Oliver! Good to know.
I'm not familiar with the M2tech DAC, but will check it out. Interesting that it sounded worse with PC...
Just to clarify, I am not necessarily looking to replace my CD player with a Pi or DAC; just complement it as a second digital source to access streaming music. But it would be a tough sell in this house if it won't sound the equal of our modded Teac.
How are you controlling your music playing? Tablet or PC? Wireless?
Sherwood
07-01-2019, 19:22
I bought a hub from the Pi Hut which powers the HDD and isolates it from the Pi's power line. I think it's been discontinued, but they may have something similar.
You can buy a Ycable or make one yourself. Just ship the 5g line from one side which connects for data only. Power will come from the other part of the Y cable
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 19:23
Thanks Oliver! Good to know.
I'm not familiar with the M2tech DAC, but will check it out. Interesting that it sounded worse with PC...
Just to clarify, I am not necessarily looking to replace my CD player with a Pi or DAC; just complement it as a second digital source to access streaming music. But it would be a tough sell in this house if it won't sound the equal of our modded Teac.
How are you controlling your music playing? Tablet or PC? Wireless?Usb flash drive storing the files into a usb port on the Pi then using Volumio via laptop or Android to control the Pi.
Sherwood
07-01-2019, 19:23
I bought a hub from the Pi Hut which powers the HDD and isolates it from the Pi's power line. I think it's been discontinued, but they may have something similar.
You can buy a Ycable or make one yourself. Just snip the 5 volt line from one side which connects for data only. Power will come from the other part of the Y cable
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 19:24
You can buy a Ycable or make one yourself. Just ship the 5g line from one side which connects for data only. Power will come from the other part of the Y cableOh, ok, that could work.
PC, Mac, Tablet, Smartphone - anything that can run a browser will be OK.
You attach a HAT DAC such as the Allo Boss to the Pi. The DAC will have RCA outputs.
Good one - thanks John! Very helpful.
This is starting to look like a very versatile little gizmo.
Usb flash drive storing the files into a usb port on the Pi then using Volumio via laptop or Android to control the Pi.
Got it - Thanks!
Laptop is doable here...Android is a no-go for now, but we might have one in the house soon. (Edit: looks like Volumio will run on my Blackberry Passport).
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 19:30
Got it - Thanks!
Laptop is doable here...Android is a no-go for now, but we might have one in the house soon.iOS too I think
Bourneendboy
07-01-2019, 19:34
Hi Jim,
Yes, Mike and i made a bit of a deal for the DAC for a bit of cable for his Mission arm. Suits us both with minimal cost!
I am immensely impressed with the Allo DAC and Mike suggests his Piano DAC is better so i may try that before i send the rest back lol. Might have to make another deal :lol:
In terms of upgrades, i have a PSU on the way with 2x5v outputs so i can use a powered USB hub with the music files on so i should be fine for some time. Maybe when i a up to speed with all the setup etc, i will have a look at whats comes next.
Which PSU did you go for?
Bigman80
07-01-2019, 19:40
Which PSU did you go for?This one.
It won't quite provide the 3A as advertised apparently, but will be 2.5 - 2.7 according to calculations. I did ask Alan for his opinion and that was it.
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F 142731699776
Sherwood
07-01-2019, 19:42
Volumio is controlled in any browser by typing in its local IP address!
Got it - Thanks!
Laptop is doable here...Android is a no-go for now, but we might have one in the house soon. (Edit: looks like Volumio will run on my Blackberry Passport).
killie99
07-01-2019, 19:47
For a music server I have an RPi with PiCorePlayer and it in turn runs Logitech Media Server.
Install PiCoreplayer on to a memory card. It is small enough to be loaded in to the RPi memory every time you boot so there is virtually no danger of a corrupted memory card, which is a major problem I had with Volumio. Then install LMS and Robert is your mother's brother ....
All controlled from iphone or ipad using iPeng, simple and a delight to use.
https://picoreplayer.org/
http://penguinlovesmusic.de/ipeng-8/
For a music server I have an RPi with PiCorePlayer and it in turn runs Logitech Media Server.
Install PiCoreplayer on to a memory card. It is small enough to be loaded in to the RPi memory every time you boot so there is virtually no danger of a corrupted memory card, which is a major problem I had with Volumio. Then install LMS and Robert is your mother's brother ....
All controlled from iphone or ipad using iPeng, simple and a delight to use.
https://picoreplayer.org/
http://penguinlovesmusic.de/ipeng-8/
I like Ipeng, cheap and quite good interface. Used it with an InnuOs server, sweet.
Thanks guys! Some great suggestions here for Volumio, iPeng, Picoreplayer, etc. Lots of things to research here. Definitely more involved than just plugging a DAC into a laptop. But rewards seem to be worth the effort.
Lawrence001
08-01-2019, 07:25
Has anyone mentioned Squeezelite running Logitech Media Server? I use that as it's the same software as my Zen so I already know it and can use the same app on my phone.
Sent from my BLN-L21 using Tapatalk
Thanks guys! Some great suggestions here for Volumio, iPeng, Picoreplayer, etc. Lots of things to research here. Definitely more involved than just plugging a DAC into a laptop. But rewards seem to be worth the effort.
Hi Svend,
Also look at Kodi: https://kodi.tv/ used in conjunction with OSMC (instead of Volumio and such like): https://osmc.tv/
If you've got a smart TV and good Wi-Fi, for me it's the way to go, as the interface is superb (easy to use and very intuitive), looks great, and you can control *everything* from your TV remote control! No phones, laptops or any other such device needed.
In conjunction with an RPi, streaming music is a joy, encouraging rather long listening sessions!:)
Marco.
mightymonoped
08-01-2019, 10:00
Thanks guys! Some great suggestions here for Volumio, iPeng, Picoreplayer, etc. Lots of things to research here. Definitely more involved than just plugging a DAC into a laptop. But rewards seem to be worth the effort.
That's the great thing about a 'headless' device like the RPi, it's pretty much 'front-end' agnostic, so you can choose the interface that suits you best. Similarly, it is flexible enough to accommodate the simplest source (a USB stick plonked directly into the RPi) to a multi-room NAS or Media Controller.
The main thing is it's ability to let you listen to the music you want, when and where you want it (and of course, the ability to tinker round with all the bits to your heart's content) :-)
Hi Svend,
Also look at Kodi: https://kodi.tv/ used in conjunction with OSMC (instead of Volumio and such like): https://osmc.tv/
If you've got a smart TV and good Wi-Fi, for me it's the way to go, as the interface is superb (easy to use and very intuitive), looks great, and you can control *everything* from your TV remote control! No phones, laptops or any other such device needed.
In conjunction with an RPi, streaming music is a joy, encouraging rather long listening sessions!:)
Marco.
Smart TV? What's that? :scratch: :) Our TV is at least 15 years old, maybe more...a tiny (by today's sizes) 32" panel. It's definitely not smart....but perhaps more so than it's owner at times :rolleyes:. It sits in the basement rec room, and barely gets used except to watch a hockey game once a week or so. In non-hockey season (aka summer) it maybe gets turned on once a month. Seriously, other than hockey, if I watch an hour a week that's a lot for me. Rather be doing other stuff... Besides, a TV in our living room is Verboten! :)
Good suggestion on Kodi though. Sounds like a great way to go.
That's the great thing about a 'headless' device like the RPi, it's pretty much 'front-end' agnostic, so you can choose the interface that suits you best. Similarly, it is flexible enough to accommodate the simplest source (a USB stick plonked directly into the RPi) to a multi-room NAS or Media Controller.
The main thing is it's ability to let you listen to the music you want, when and where you want it (and of course, the ability to tinker round with all the bits to your heart's content) :-)
Yes, it sure seems to be very versatile, this little Pi thing. I like that. A bit of a learning curve, for sure, but I'll get there and it sounds like it will be worth it. I like tinkering, so this should be fun.
A high point is the compact footprint, which I can tuck away behind another component and just forget about it. Nice! And it's very affordable, so I can buy a second one for the downstairs system.
Cheers,
Svend
Smart TV? What's that? Our TV is at least 15 years old, maybe more...a tiny (by today's sizes) 32" panel. It's definitely not smart....but perhaps more so than it's owner at times :rolleyes:. It sits in the basement rec room, and barely gets used except to watch a hockey game once a week or so. In non-hockey season (aka summer) it maybe gets turned on once a month. Seriously, other than hockey, if I watch an hour a week that's a lot for me. Rather be doing other stuff... Besides, a TV in our living room is Verboten!
Good suggestion on Kodi though. Sounds like a great way to go.
Lol... I admire your stance!
We also resisted the 'big tele' thing for a while. The focal point in our living room is still our inglenook fireplace and wood burner, but there's a 46" (big enough but not too big to dominate) smart TV in one of the corners, which forms part of our home-cinema system (and to which the RPi adds a music function), as we love our movies too much, and like them reproduced as realistically as possible:)
However, quite simply, if you want to get the most out of Kodi, you *need* a smart TV, as apart from allowing the use of one remote control (the one for the TV), to access your Pi's music library, Kodi syncs seamlessly with a smart TV, and so enhances your whole music-listening experience (providing direct access to unlimited music on YouTube, or Spotify, Tidal, etc), especially with also allowing you to view all the album cover-art, from your streams, in high-definition!:cool:
But I guess if you insist on slumming it....:eyebrows:;)
Marco.
P.S On a rather different note, how dd you get on with sourcing the milk for your coffee direct from the dairy? You never did say!
Lol... I admire your stance! We also resisted the 'big tele' thing for a while. The focal point in our living room is still our inglenook fireplace and wood burner, but there's a 46" (big enough but not too big to dominate) smart TV in one of the corners, which forms part of our home-cinema system (and to which the RPi adds a music function), as we love our movies too much, and like them reproduced as realistically as possible:)
However, quite simply, if you want to get the most out of Kodi, you *need* a smart TV, as apart from allowing the use of one remote control, to access your music library (the one for the TV), it syncs seamlessly with a smart TV and enhances your whole music-listening experience, especially viewing all the album cover-art in high-definition!:cool:
But I guess if you insist on slumming it....:eyebrows:;)
Marco.
P.S On a rather different note, how dd you get on with sourcing your milk direct from the dairy? You never did say!
It's not really a "stance", as in a deliberate effort to push the TV out of our lives. It simply evolved that way out of sheer boredom with what was broadcast (other than a certain winter sport :D). That, and having better things to do than sit in front of the tube. The TV just gradually got relegated to second class status in our home....we slowly over time watched less and less. We used to have satellite TV, and after a time came to realize that even with 200+ channels there was nothing on worth watching. Waste of money! We recently cancelled our Netflix too. Hardly used it. That said, we do watch the odd movie at home...about once a month or so.
Audio, OTOH, is front and center. There is almost always music playing somewhere in the house. Our daughters are big-time into music too. The eldest got me Mumford's Delta on vinyl as a Christmas present :)
Re. the milk, yes! I did just recently find a dairy which sells unhomogenized whole milk in a glass bottle. It's about 25 min. drive, so not close, but it is on the way to our local ski hill (and our fave mtn. bike forest in summer) so a quick pop in on the way would be easy. Haven't tried it yet, but I'll be up that way in a couple of days so will pick up a few bottles. Can't wait to try it!
Anyone compared a Pi server to a Zen mini. Once you have built up a Pi and maxed it out with clean USB performance etc I believe it comes in quite expensive. A second hand Zen mini can be had for £400 and you can obviously rip files to this as it has storage so no need to use a laptop. I would put money on the Zen turning out a better performance than any Pi with whatever source attached but I have not compared the two so cannot be absolutely sure.
Sherwood
08-01-2019, 15:27
Have to disagree. An RPI with Digione and good case is under £200. Performance with SEG is awesome.
is
Anyone compared a Pi server to a Zen mini. Once you have built up a Pi and maxed it out with clean USB performance etc I believe it comes in quite expensive. A second hand Zen mini can be had for £400 and you can obviously rip files to this as it has storage so no need to use a laptop. I would put money on the Zen turning out a better performance than any Pi with whatever source attached but I have not compared the two so cannot be absolutely sure.
Have to disagree. An RPI with Digione and good case is under £200. Performance with SEG is awesome.
is
Have you compared it with a Zen Geoff?
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 17:19
Well, regardless of whether X Y or Z sounds better, I am thoroughly enjoying this little gadget.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/083338f6f5b77d114ac13a9431d92f66.jpg
Sherwood
08-01-2019, 17:54
Have you compared it with a Zen Geoff?
Not an AB type comparison, but I did listen to a Zen. Good but overpriced IMHO!
finally got my rpi to do dsd with the better laptop. only 64 at moment due to dac constraints but it was quite nice. even with the 16gb ram, you heard the fan kick in when the processor took up the task:eyebrows:
Well, regardless of whether X Y or Z sounds better, I am thoroughly enjoying this little gadget.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/083338f6f5b77d114ac13a9431d92f66.jpg
Right on, Oliver! In the end, that's all that matters.
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 18:02
Right on, Oliver! In the end, that's all that matters.Absolutely. And for less than £100 it suits my needs, plays the songs I like is very enjoyable.
What is there to discuss!! Lol
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 19:22
Another couple of hours listening and this thing has been really impressive.
Paul Simon's - still crazy after all these years, sounded particularly superb. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/d95766f9115a8470dcd2617cb9cb11ce.jpg
mightymonoped
08-01-2019, 20:03
Another couple of hours listening and this thing has been really impressive.
Paul Simon's - still crazy after all these years, sounded particularly superb. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/d95766f9115a8470dcd2617cb9cb11ce.jpg
Paul Simon plays well on this setup! Check out Hearts and Bones. [emoji4]
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 20:56
Paul Simon plays well on this setup! Check out Hearts and Bones. [emoji4]
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkYep, got that here. I'll have a listen tomorrow.
What's also become apparent is the quality of the file or mix of an album is greatly affecting the enjoyability.
That didn't happen before, I didn't really enjoy all that much. Now I'm hearing the difference between album quality. It's great!
mightymonoped
08-01-2019, 21:13
Yep, got that here. I'll have a listen tomorrow.
What's also become apparent is the quality of the file or mix of an album is greatly affecting the enjoyability.
That didn't happen before, I didn't really enjoy all that much. Now I'm hearing the difference between album quality. It's great!
That’s exactly what I experienced. Transparency! Really pulls out the quality.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'm running Volumio on my Rpi 2B+ with HiFiBerry Pro+. It is powered from a simple linear power supply (I hear a diff when compared to the original Pi's smps). I use it mainly as an internet radio.
It sounds sweet. But soundwise I do prefer my CD player (Musical Fidelity E601). I have to admit that radio streams are not as good as Cds. I play sometimes some hi def stuff from a NAS. This sounds pretty damn good! I should probably rip some cds and store them on the server AND THEN compare the cd player vs Pi.
Another Pi with a DIYINHK ESS9023 usb dac is running KODI. Also very enjoyable. But it is connected to dumb TV (I've seen here I am not the only one who tries to marginalize TVs in their lives!) and does not get much use. Though an opera from youtube can be very nice!
I plan to separate digital and audio power supply in the first Pi. A buddy from my office reported great results with separate DIYINHK power supplies (somewhat pricey for in this setup).
Sherwood
08-01-2019, 22:25
Have you tried the Pi with Audirvana and Tidal MQ files?
Simply awesome when upsampled to DSD!
Yep, got that here. I'll have a listen tomorrow.
What's also become apparent is the quality of the file or mix of an album is greatly affecting the enjoyability.
That didn't happen before, I didn't really enjoy all that much. Now I'm hearing the difference between album quality. It's great!
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 22:27
Have you tried the Pi with Audirvana and Tidal MQ files?
Simply awesome when upsampled to DSD!No I haven't.
Do they do a free trial?
Sherwood
08-01-2019, 22:31
Yes and for both products through AV
No I haven't.
Do they do a free trial?
You need a decent PC and plenty of ram to get to DSD128 but the SQ is sublime. Will give your analogue some competition
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 22:32
Yes and for both products through AVI'll have a look. I have very little knowledge in this area so I'll have to read up a bit.
Bigman80
08-01-2019, 22:35
I'm running Volumio on my Rpi 2B+ with HiFiBerry Pro+. It is powered from a simple linear power supply (I hear a diff when compared to the original Pi's smps). I use it mainly as an internet radio.
It sounds sweet. But soundwise I do prefer my CD player (Musical Fidelity E601). I have to admit that radio streams are not as good as Cds. I play sometimes some hi def stuff from a NAS. This sounds pretty damn good! I should probably rip some cds and store them on the server AND THEN compare the cd player vs Pi.
Another Pi with a DIYINHK ESS9023 usb dac is running KODI. Also very enjoyable. But it is connected to dumb TV (I've seen here I am not the only one who tries to marginalize TVs in their lives!) and does not get much use. Though an opera from youtube can be very nice!
I plan to separate digital and audio power supply in the first Pi. A buddy from my office reported great results with separate DIYINHK power supplies (somewhat pricey for in this setup).Just had a look at DIYINHK no idea what the F#ck any of that stuff is, how it would work etc.
I'm way off experimenting with his thing
ijrussell
08-01-2019, 23:00
I used a Pi and DigiOne with an MCRU Linear power supply at Kegworth last year and it worked brilliantly with Volumio. I've tried a couple of the DAC hats and they didn't sound as good as my DACs. Having said that, it is a market I will be keeping an eye on as they are definitely getting better.
Bigman80
09-01-2019, 06:11
I used a Pi and DigiOne with an MCRU Linear power supply at Kegworth last year and it worked brilliantly with Volumio. I've tried a couple of the DAC hats and they didn't sound as good as my DACs. Having said that, it is a market I will be keeping an eye on as they are definitely getting better.I'm liking Volumio. No glitches, very easy to navigate too.
Sherwood
09-01-2019, 06:50
I'm liking Volumio. No glitches, very easy to navigate too.
When you use Audivarna, it presents your Volumio RPi device as an output option. Simples!
Bigman80
09-01-2019, 06:54
When you use Audivarna, it presents your Volumio RPi device as an output option. Simples!Ok. Does that require the use of a NAS? Or could i continue to use a member stick in the pi?
you can still use a memory stick in the rpi, or also in pc. you need a pc to run audirvana, which is a library and player for your music with integration of qobuz and tidal. windows or mac versions available. ive got music on a hdd on one of my pi's and on a stick on one of my laptops. i can either play from pi or from audirvana to pi or to my oppo too. it picks up any devices available on ur network.
it certainly ups the game for the pi
Sherwood
09-01-2019, 09:03
Both.
Should add that Audivarna perfectly integrated with Tidal so you have access on the RPi to all those MQ files!
Ok. Does that require the use of a NAS? Or could i continue to use a member stick in the pi?
Bigman80
09-01-2019, 09:06
Both.
Should add that Audivarna perfectly integrated with Tidal so you have access on the RPi to all those MQ files!Ok, I'm interested.
mightymonoped
09-01-2019, 09:13
I've effectively 'dumbed down' my setup as I prefer the simplicity of having my main source on a USB drive connected directly to the Pi via USB3.* I can access the USB drive via my Macbook as and when I want to update or add media (it's not that difficult) and use JRiver Media Centre to manage the library and ripping of CDs.
Most of the time though, I'm just using the Pi in 'headless' mode, accessing Volumio via my smart phone or running Spotify via Volumio from the phone.
I have run it from a NAS before but I prefer this setup in terms of simplifying the chain.*
The setup I run is an RPi/ALLO BOSS DAC with a USB3 drive connected directly, powered by rechargeable smartphone battery charger.
Now looking to upgrade this to a Katana + Isolator using the same setup. Also looking at using Solid State Drive for the source.
*yes, I do keep backups of my media library on a separate hard drive (using RAID 0)
Sherwood
09-01-2019, 09:22
I've effectively 'dumbed down' my setup as I prefer the simplicity of having my main source on a USB drive connected directly to the Pi via USB3.* I can access the USB drive via my Macbook as and when I want to update or add media (it's not that difficult) and use JRiver Media Centre to manage the library and ripping of CDs.
Most of the time though, I'm just using the Pi in 'headless' mode, accessing Volumio via my smart phone or running Spotify via Volumio from the phone.
I have run it from a NAS before but I prefer this setup in terms of simplifying the chain.*
The setup I run is an RPi/ALLO BOSS DAC with a USB3 drive connected directly, powered by rechargeable smartphone battery charger.
Now looking to upgrade this to a Katana + Isolator using the same setup. Also looking at using Solid State Drive for the source.
*yes, I do keep backups of my media library on a separate hard drive (using RAID 0)
Amazon is selling a 400gb micro ad card for just over £80 right now.
been using one of these samsung drives 256gb. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-MUF-256BE3-EU-Champagne-Silver/dp/B07CVFL98M/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1547026006&sr=8-7&keywords=samsung+flash+drive+256gb
WESTLOWER
09-01-2019, 09:30
I stopped using the Pi set ups because of the limitations with LMS (Logitech Media Server, which was needed to bring stored and streaming together) integrating stored files and streaming.
At the time I was using it, LMS was limited to only 500 favourite titles with Tidal, which is useless as you all know how quick you can accumilate a large streaming library.
It also lists the 2 different source routes separately, which was not ideal. I was using Ipeng as a controller.
Personally with the integration, meta data and user experience Roon offers, I wouldn't go back to the Pi.
But given it's limitations, it's still a great introduction to digital audio. I have to say, I've experienced a whole new digital music league with Roon.
But.. I still prefer to get off my arse and change a record over!
StanleyB
09-01-2019, 10:04
That's why I refuse to part with my Logitech SB Touch.
I have heard from a few customers that Roon now supports all my Caiman DACs in their USB connection. i.e you'll get an acknowledgement that you connected a Beresford DAC to it. Haven't got Roon, so can't quote from personal experience.
I started with one of these, http://supernaturaldesign.com/logitech-wireless-dj-remote. I still think it had the most aesthetically pleasing design but light years away from todays streamers. I then had a Logitech Duet, which is still in use in one room and then the Touch. The Touch is my main streamer. I have not had a hitch with any of the Logitech stuff apart fro wifi drop outs that were cured by hard wiring. The have all just found the files on my computer and sent them to the various DAC's I've had over the years. I'm using ipeng now so that I can control them from my phone or ipad. I still cannot understand why Logitech removed themselves from the market.
mightymonoped
09-01-2019, 11:35
been using one of these samsung drives 256gb. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-MUF-256BE3-EU-Champagne-Silver/dp/B07CVFL98M/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1547026006&sr=8-7&keywords=samsung+flash+drive+256gb
Samsung is one of my preferred storage brands, I generally use their SSD drives in work. I'm thinking I'll need at least 1Tb for the current setup though. This one looks a likely candidate..
https://smile.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-MZ-76E1T0B-EU-Solid-State/dp/B078WST5RK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1547026939&sr=8-3&keywords=1tb+ssd
Bigman80
09-01-2019, 11:42
Samsung is one of my preferred storage brands, I generally use their SSD drives in work. I'm thinking I'll need at least 1Tb for the current setup though. This one looks a likely candidate..
https://smile.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-MZ-76E1T0B-EU-Solid-State/dp/B078WST5RK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1547026939&sr=8-3&keywords=1tb+ssdI'll definitely need more storage. I'm already at 300GB.
miy ripped collection is still under 250gb, although only just. but with tidal taking up most of my digital listening these days, it may not get much bigger. plenty older type blues ive not ripped as i like to listen to it by disc.
It's not really a "stance", as in a deliberate effort to push the TV out of our lives. It simply evolved that way out of sheer boredom with what was broadcast (other than a certain winter sport :D). That, and having better things to do than sit in front of the tube.
I totally respect your outlook, and also that decision. For us too, music is more important than TV, *but* since installing a modest home-cinema system, and experiencing a snapshot of the joys of the 'cinema effect', with our favourite films, a large flatscreen (Smart) TV was mandatory to facilitate our viewing.
Before then, like you, we could 'take or leave' watching films, and would've had no interest whatsoever in Netflix, but watching them on a good home-cinema system simply spoils you!:eyebrows:
Re. the milk, yes! I did just recently find a dairy which sells unhomogenized whole milk in a glass bottle. It's about 25 min. drive, so not close, but it is on the way to our local ski hill (and our fave mtn. bike forest in summer) so a quick pop in on the way would be easy. Haven't tried it yet, but I'll be up that way in a couple of days so will pick up a few bottles. Can't wait to try it!
Nice one... Won't they deliver? You'd think they'd have regular customers to go to, and could add you to their run. The dairy we use is about the same distance away. However, it's good that you'll be able to pop by and get some proper old-fashioned bottled milk. Let me know what you think!:cool:
Marco.
Marco, I totally get how a big hi-def TV would get one hooked on movies. I see them on display at the shops and home shows - remarkable stuff! Really stunning image quality. A good friend of ours is a true film buff, and chatting with him about his passion gives me a better appreciation of what draws people to film. Always a fascinating conversation. And don't get me wrong - we love a good film, and will go to the theatre if there is something really worthwhile showing. Who knows, one day we may get a hankering to watch more movies and then treat ourselves to a big screen box. Hockey games will be a very, er, immediate experience...sticks and sweat and broken teeth flying right out of the screen. :D
As for relegating the TV to the basement rec room, we have a modestly-sized house and having a TV squawking away in the main floor living room would just be too distracting for others in the family not watching. That, and as mentioned, we just don't watch that much TV...not worth taking up valuable living room space for it.
Looking forward to trying good old-fashioned unhomogenized whole milk again. Cappucinos will never be the same :). I just checked the Dairy's web site, and they show that our local Italian grocer carries their products, so we might actually be able to get it during our frequent visits there. Will check next time we're in...prob. tomorrow :). BTW, no dairy still does home delivery here any more. That is long gone, since the '60s. Some rather large territories to cover here...a wee bit more driving for the milkman than in Wales :D
Cheers,
Svend
Samsung is one of my preferred storage brands, I generally use their SSD drives in work.
+1 for Samsung SSD ... I have amassed quite a few over the last years; some for use in my various Macs (the speed boost over HDD is phenomenal !!) and others for general storage.
Also used with my collection of RPi without resorting to powered hub or any other 'additional' power supplies ... work flawlessly and never miss a beat. I even use one to record programmes on the TV ;)
So far I have had not a single one fail or become corrupted, which was to me the scourge of every brand of HDD I have tried over the years (WD, Maxtor, Toshiba, Seagate, etc.etc.etc.)
Marco, I totally get how a big hi-def TV would get one hooked on movies. I see them on display at the shops and home shows - remarkable stuff! Really stunning image quality. A good friend of ours is a true film buff, and chatting with him about his passion gives me a better appreciation of what draws people to film. Always a fascinating conversation. And don't get me wrong - we love a good film, and will go to the theatre if there is something really worthwhile showing. Who knows, one day we may get a hankering to watch more movies and then treat ourselves to a big screen box. Hockey games will be a very, er, immediate experience...sticks and sweat and broken teeth flying right out of the screen. :D
As for relegating the TV to the basement rec room, we have a modestly-sized house and having a TV squawking away in the main floor living room would just be too distracting for others in the family not watching. That, and as mentioned, we just don't watch that much TV...not worth taking up valuable living room space for it.
Looking forward to trying good old-fashioned unhomogenized whole milk again. Cappucinos will never be the same :). I just checked the Dairy's web site, and they show that our local Italian grocer carries their products, so we might actually be able to get it during our frequent visits there. Will check next time we're in...prob. tomorrow :). BTW, no dairy still does home delivery here any more. That is long gone, since the '60s. Some rather large territories to cover here...a wee bit more driving for the milkman than in Wales :D
Nice one, Svend. Totally understand and agree with you on all of the above! Good news on getting the milk sourced more locally, too. When you try it, please update me on the coffee thread:cool:
Marco.
Bigman80
11-01-2019, 12:07
This is all good to know!
Marco, I totally get how a big hi-def TV would get one hooked on movies. I see them on display at the shops and home shows - remarkable stuff! Really stunning image quality. A good friend of ours is a true film buff, and chatting with him about his passion gives me a better appreciation of what draws people to film. Always a fascinating conversation. And don't get me wrong - we love a good film, and will go to the theatre if there is something really worthwhile showing. Who knows, one day we may get a hankering to watch more movies and then treat ourselves to a big screen box. Hockey games will be a very, er, immediate experience...sticks and sweat and broken teeth flying right out of the screen. :D
As for relegating the TV to the basement rec room, we have a modestly-sized house and having a TV squawking away in the main floor living room would just be too distracting for others in the family not watching. That, and as mentioned, we just don't watch that much TV...not worth taking up valuable living room space for it.
Looking forward to trying good old-fashioned unhomogenized whole milk again. Cappucinos will never be the same :). I just checked the Dairy's web site, and they show that our local Italian grocer carries their products, so we might actually be able to get it during our frequent visits there. Will check next time we're in...prob. tomorrow :). BTW, no dairy still does home delivery here any more. That is long gone, since the '60s. Some rather large territories to cover here...a wee bit more driving for the milkman than in Wales :D
Cheers,
Svend
my dad was offered a job in canada as head of the coop in one of the states. was interesting cioz not only did he get a company car, but also a company aeroplane, such was the size of the territory
This is all good to know!
Apologies for the thread drift, bud :D
Back on topic: have you compared the onboard DAC hat on your Pi to a Pi with outboard DAC? It seems some here are using that type of setup. I'm curious as to how the Allo hats perform. From all accounts (i.e. very few) they seem rather good.
my dad was offered a job in canada as head of the coop in one of the states. was interesting cioz not only did he get a company car, but also a company aeroplane, such was the size of the territory
Yup, that is perfectly plausible. There are some pretty remote communities up north, that would take days to drive to. But a quick hop with a small plane and you're there. Bush planes, some with floats, are a common sight. Here's why:
Scotland - 78,000 km2
Wales - 21,000 km2
Ontario (just one of Canada's 13 provinces and territories) - 918,000 km2
All of Canada - 10,000,000 km2 (10% of which is water, hence the popularity of float planes)
Sherwood
11-01-2019, 13:39
Apologies for the thread drift, bud :D
Back on topic: have you compared the onboard DAC hat on your Pi to a Pi with outboard DAC? It seems some here are using that type of setup. I'm curious as to how the Allo hats perform. From all accounts (i.e. very few) they seem rather good.
I use an RPi 3B+ and Allo Digione with Caiman SEG plus Dorado. The Digione is a steal at its price point but the synergy with the SE G is exceptional
got a 3b with a digi plus board. works flawlessly. probably should upgrade the digi board, but an inclined to leave things that work alone these days:eek:
Yup, that is perfectly plausible. There are some pretty remote communities up north, that would take days to drive to. But a quick hop with a small plane and you're there. Bush planes, some with floats, are a common sight. Here's why:
Scotland - 78,000 km2
Wales - 21,000 km2
Ontario (just one of Canada's 13 provinces and territories) - 918,000 km2
All of Canada - 10,000,000 km2 (10% of which is water, hence the popularity of float planes)
cant remember what one, but Calgary rings a bell, so maybe Alberta
Thanks Geoff. Good to know. I'll mull that over as an option. I've heard good things about the Caiman.
got a 3b with a digi plus board. works flawlessly. probably should upgrade the digi board, but an inclined to leave things that work alone these days:eek:
Great to hear...thanks Grant.
Alberta is a beautiful province. We go there every winter to ski in the Rockies. Huge territory, small population...I can see how a plane would be needed to get your dad around, esp. up north.
Bigman80
11-01-2019, 19:32
Today the pi went onto WiFi!
I bought a 3+ after my trials with Mikes and i have to say, i think it may be slightly better? I could be imagining it but it seems a little more detailed. Like i say, could just be me.
I also tried a 128GB SSD in it and so far, no issues at all and its been on for over two hours.
Cool!
Sherwood
11-01-2019, 19:36
Today the pi went onto WiFi!
I bought a 3+ after my trials with Mikes and i have to say, i think it may be slightly better? I could be imagining it but it seems a little more detailed. Like i say, could just be me.
I also tried a 128GB SSD in it and so far, no issues at all and its been on for over two hours.
Cool!
No, the 3+B is significantly better. Not a fan of WiFi though. All my stuff is wired!
Bigman80
11-01-2019, 19:37
No, the 3+B is significantly better. No a fan of WiFi though. All my stuff is wired!Ah! Good. I thought I was imagining it. Seems much cleaner to me. Better bass too. I am very happy indeed.
The WiFi is only to communicate with the Pi in my case. SSD is attached via USB.
Sherwood
11-01-2019, 20:20
Ah! Good. I thought I was imagining it. Seems much cleaner to me. Better bass too. I am very happy indeed.
The WiFi is only to communicate with the Pi in my case. SSD is attached via USB.
Those are amongst the improvements.
Regarding Wifi, you realise that your RPi is doing the processing and that it is getting the raw files by wifi. Not ideal, even with the latest Pi!
Bigman80
11-01-2019, 20:22
Those are amongst the improvements.
Regarding Wifi, you realise that your RPi is doing the processing and that it is getting the raw files by wifi. Not ideal, even with the latest Pi!No, I don't know this!!! Is it better wired for that purpose?
No, I don't know this!!! Is it better wired for that purpose?
Geoff is correct on this one Oli - wired is always better.
Bigman80
11-01-2019, 20:30
Geoff is correct on this one Oli - wired is always better.Ok, back in goes the wire!
Bluetooth not good either unless you use latest aptx HD, still think wired best though. Not sure if Pi can be configured with aptx. Not much gear supports it yet.
Maybe I've got the wrong end of the stick but never noticed a problem with Wifi for the RPi if only used for control purposes (play, pause, etc).
The processing is negligible and can't see how it has any effect on the music making process whatsoever.
File transfer is a totally different ball game - absolutely pants in my experience and much better direct via ethernet.
That said, I installed IR receivers on mine for general play commands via remote so rarely use the phone/tablet route except for selecting albums.
Sherwood
11-01-2019, 22:12
Maybe I've got the wrong end of the stick but never noticed a problem with Wifi for the RPi if only used for control purposes (play, pause, etc).
The processing is negligible and can't see how it has any effect on the music making process whatsoever.
File transfer is a totally different ball game - absolutely pants in my experience and much better direct via ethernet.
That said, I installed IR receivers on mine for general play commands via remote so rarely use the phone/tablet route except for selecting albums.
I found a major reduction in SQ with wifi
I found a major reduction in SQ with wifi
How do you control it ... and what has wifi got to do with 'raw files' you mentioned earlier? :scratch:
Sorry - but genuinely confused and I really can't grasp what the set up is you are referring to ...
As far as I can make out Oli is using a USB drive directly attached to the RPi for file storage and access ... not an external NAS or anything that would require file transfer via wifi or even be remotely involved with wifi protocol other than selecting files for playback which would be done via the processor. Ethernet would make no difference whatsoever ... the files are being accessed/transferred via the USB bus.
Yup if WiFi is just for remote then it shouldn't affect sq. That said, even when I used mine exclusively with hdd I had mine on ethwrnet
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 07:14
SSD In the Pi so no need for the cable. I will be trying tidal when I can figure out how to do it on the pi.
Then, it will be wired.
SSD In the Pi so no need for the cable. I will be trying tidal when I can figure out how to do it on the pi.
Then, it will be wired.Audirvana from pc. Might be able to cast it from phone too.
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 07:29
SSD In the Pi so no need for the cable. I will be trying tidal when I can figure out how to do it on the pi.
Then, it will be wired.
In theory WiFi should not be an issue for files on devices that plug directly into a RPi. Problem is that it does impact on SQ. Not sure why?
I have also found that SSD devices don't sound as good as micro sd cards. I have no explanation for this either.
Geoff
BTW. Audivarna is superbly simple for using Tidal on a Pi!
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 07:30
Audirvana from pc. Might be able to cast it from phone too.Cheers mate, I'll have a look. Do I need to put that on the pi?
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 07:31
In theory WiFi should not be an issue for files on devices that plug directly into a RPi. Problem is that it does impact on SQ. Not sure why?
I have also found that SSD devices don't sound as good as micro sd cards. I have no explanation for this either.
Geoff
BTW. Audivarna is superbly simple for using Tidal on a Pi!Ok, so sound quality is better via MicroSd than SSD? I can try that today too.
Cheers mate, I'll have a look. Do I need to put that on the pi?
nope, just have the upnp etc on on the pi which should be on from default i think. av will pick it up on your pc and you select the pi as a dac . you can then alsio set the processing there too if you want. on av you just click connect to tidal and enter your password etc and it will pull in all your albums etc saved there to av. you can work the whole thing from av then, and sound comes out of pi to stereo. clever
Ok, so sound quality is better via MicroSd than SSD? I can try that today too.
ive always used a self powered hdd, but with av i dont really need it now as i can fly by wire;)
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 08:03
nope, just have the upnp etc on on the pi which should be on from default i think. av will pick it up on your pc and you select the pi as a dac . you can then alsio set the processing there too if you want. on av you just click connect to tidal and enter your password etc and it will pull in all your albums etc saved there to av. you can work the whole thing from av then, and sound comes out of pi to stereo. cleverOk, I think I'll probably fail but I'll try
Ok, I think I'll probably fail but I'll try
should be a breeze. not much to it really
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 09:23
Ok, so sound quality is better via MicroSd than SSD? I can try that today too.
Amazon have a 400gb SanDisk micro sd for just over 80 quid currently.
That's 20p per gig. Dare I say cheap as chips!
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 10:21
Amazon have a 400gb SanDisk micro sd for just over 80 quid currently.
That's 20p per gig. Dare I say cheap as chips![emoji23][emoji23] cheap as chips!
SSD In the Pi so no need for the cable. I will be trying tidal when I can figure out how to do it on the pi.
Then, it will be wired.If you have an Android phone or tablet use Bubble uPnP app ( it's not available on iOS ). The app accesses your Tidal account once you've entered your details and then Bubble can control Tidal and Tidal will send it direct to your Pi.
Here's a screenshot of what services Bubble can control directly.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190112/96129f8d931ce2661a3a78faa9a8ff13.jpg
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 10:30
Thanks Mike. I am way out of my depth at the minute so I'll have a look at it too.
Thanks Mike. I am way out of my depth at the minute so I'll have a look at it too.Using Bubble is child's play, and you don't need your PC or laptop [emoji6]
Ok, so sound quality is better via MicroSd than SSD? I can try that today too.
I've used all three - SSD, pendrive and micro sd - never noticed a blind bit of difference BUT the micro sd is handy (although requiring an adapter)
Got a USB 3.0 adapter for this purpose (most are USB 2.0) ... also didn't seem to make any difference ... although it does get much hotter in use :lol:
In the end I just use pen drives - as cheap as flash memory nowadays.
Not impressed at all with 'over the air' playback via Audirvana from my Mac ... but each to their own and YMMV etc. etc.
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 10:35
So far this morning I've used, SSD and USB flash drive. Both are 3.0.
I can't say either are better than the other.
Had a play with internet radio, some good some bad
Next up is playing with Bubbles.
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 10:53
So far this morning I've used, SSD and USB flash drive. Both are 3.0.
I can't say either are better than the other.
Had a play with internet radio, some good some bad
Next up is playing with Bubbles.
Have you found the BBC 320k URLs? Excellent quality
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 10:54
Have you found the BBC 320k URLs? Excellent qualityI haven't!
Currently using tidal with bubble upnp [emoji23]
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 10:58
Breaking into Saturday morning like a 16 year old in 1996 [emoji23]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190112/fb52fce194f66aa7b39cec5db383c538.jpg
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 11:04
I haven't!
Currently using tidal with bubble upnp [emoji23]
https://hifiwigwam.com/forum/topic/127134-high-quality-320kbps-streams-for-all-bbc-radio-stations/
If I'd known your were going to play S****e like that I wouldn't have loaned you the stuff [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
Simon_LDT
12-01-2019, 11:31
In theory WiFi should not be an issue for files on devices that plug directly into a RPi. Problem is that it does impact on SQ. Not sure why?
I have also found that SSD devices don't sound as good as micro sd cards. I have no explanation for this either.
Geoff
BTW. Audivarna is superbly simple for using Tidal on a Pi!
Hold on, so having a WiFi connection on the Pi, even when files are accessed from attached storage via cable impacts the sound quality negatively?
Wouldn't that mean earlier Pi's that didn't have any WiFi inbuilt would be superior? From what I understand, there is no way to disable the WiFi connection on the Pi, so even when using via ethernet wired, doesn't mean the WiFi part of the Pi isn't doing something in the background still.h
Hold on, so having a WiFi connection on the Pi, even when files are accessed from attached storage via cable impacts the sound quality negatively?
Wouldn't that mean earlier Pi's that didn't have any WiFi inbuilt would be superior? From what I understand, there is no way to disable the WiFi connection on the Pi, so even when using via ethernet wired, doesn't mean the WiFi part of the Pi isn't doing something in the background still.hI would think it would affect it, the wifi will be hunting for a signal all the time. You can probably switch it off by editing Linux.
Edit: just googled it, can be done no problem
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 11:37
Hold on, so having a WiFi connection on the Pi, even when files are accessed from attached storage via cable impacts the sound quality negatively?
Wouldn't that mean earlier Pi's that didn't have any WiFi inbuilt would be superior? From what I understand, there is no way to disable the WiFi connection on the Pi, so even when using via ethernet wired, doesn't mean the WiFi part of the Pi isn't doing something in the background still.h
That was my experience. I don't know if it about how wifi is implemented on the Pi but I found a smearing of detail and a certain graininess. With the Rpi connected to the router: everything tightened up! Why? I don;t know but the effects were clearly audible on my Maggies.
Simon_LDT
12-01-2019, 11:44
Hmm, didn't know that so might have to give it a try.
I would think it would affect it, the wifi will be hunting for a signal all the time.
Only when you execute a scan - why would it hunt for anything otherwise,?
If a packet is addressed to it, it will respond, otherwise it has no reason to ... think of it like Royal Mail sorters, if nothing comes in they go off for a fag break :lol:
Wouldn't that mean earlier Pi's that didn't have any WiFi inbuilt would be superior?
I found the wifi built into the RPi 3 definitely inferior to the Netgear dongles I use on my RPi 2s ...weaker reception and more prone to break up ... so I disabled it and use a dongle instead, much better ;)
Only music data transfer via wifi that occurs with mine is with the radio stations (BBC 320kbs) and they are absolutely fine with wifi - and certainly no better with ethernet connected IMV.
Only when you execute a scan - why would it hunt for anything otherwise,?
If a packet is addressed to it, it will respond, otherwise it has no reason to ... think of it like Royal Mail sorters, if nothing comes in they go off for a fag break [emoji38]I think the Pi 3 WiFi auto scans at 1 minute intervals which is why a lot of users disable it
I think the Pi 3 WiFi auto scans at 1 minute intervals which is why a lot of users disable it
Maybe ... but the built-in wifi is a bit pants either way (in my experience) ... see previous post :)
Maybe - the built-in wifi is a bit pants either way (in my experience) ... see previous post :)Yip wired is definitely best [emoji6] [emoji4]
Yip wired is definitely best [emoji6] [emoji4]
Oh no it isn't :lol:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLlv_aZjHXc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLlv_aZjHXc
:rfl::lol::rfl::lol::rfl::lol::rfl:
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 17:34
Spent a couple of hours comparing Tidal to HD files on the SSD and CD Rips in Flac on the SSD.
Ive compared Wifi Vs Ethernet, Memory card vs all of the above and Pi3+ Vs Pi 2.
What a pain in the arse all that was.
So here is my conclusive conclusion.
Tidal Vs HD files on SSD
Tidal is not floating my boat. It sounds like all the horrid digital stuff i have tried and avoided previously. I emailed Tidal and they called me with some advice to improve the quality but it made little if any difference. Impressed with the customer service.
HD Files via SDD are superb. I can't find a fault with it so on we go.
HD Files on SSD Vs CD Rip on on SSD
Again, superb. Maybe a little less resolution but i'd be lying if i said i was convinced.
Happy with either.
USB Stick 3.0 Vs SSD
If you can hear a difference, Well done!. Both are superb and to be honest, I wasn't aware of any issues or major differences.
All of the above Vs Memory Card.
Getting bored. Not convinced one is better than the other. Used via 3.0 USB adaptor
WiFi Vs Ethernet
Ok, streaming via Tidal was better via Ethernet. Using the Pi via Volumio for stored files, No difference at all.
Pi2 Vs Pi 3+
Pi 3+ is far better. It's cleaner, bass is tighter. The transparency is better and the performers are more spaced out. Imaging improved greatly. The Pi 2 sounds ike everything is in the middle. Not any more. Spend £30 and upgrade your Pi2
There you go. I will be using a Pi3+ via SSD to play stored files and control it via Volumio, connected to the Wifi.
Thank you Oliver! Finally some clarity in this Pi thing. Not to seem ungrateful for all the suggestions and recommendations about this psu and that drive, etc., but all of it was getting me more and more confused. I was ready to give up and just buy a Bluesound streamer, plug it in and be done. That last post of yours just got me keen to try a Pi again. Well done! So helpful.
Cheers,
Svend
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 18:26
Thank you Oliver! Finally some clarity in this Pi thing. Not to seem ungrateful for all the suggestions and recommendations about this psu and that drive, etc., but all of it was getting me more and more confused. I was ready to give up and just buy a Bluesound streamer, plug it in and be done. That last post of yours just got me keen to try a Pi again. Well done! So helpful.
Cheers,
Svend
Thanks Svend!
In my opinion, which has been formed in a week lol, Pi3+, Allo DAC or Any DAC hat for that matter to get going, Volumio, Ethernet cable, Micro SD card and some form of file storage is the easiest way to go.
EAC from CD to FLAC and rip your CD's.
The Ethernet cable is just to help set the Pi up
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 18:46
Thanks Svend!
In my opinion, which has been formed in a week lol, Pi3+, Allo DAC or Any DAC hat for that matter to get going, Volumio, Ethernet cable, Micro SD card and some form of file storage is the easiest way to go.
EAC from CD to FLAC and rip your CD's.
The Ethernet cable is just to help set the Pi up
My experience is a little different from yours. Yes the new RPi board is significantly better than the earlier versions. Of course, it should be, it is quite an upgrade from previous versions. I find the Rpi wifi to degrade SQ compared to a wired connection. I can detect no difference in SQ whether I play back files from a NAS connected to my router, or a memory device connected to the Rpi. However, I tried a Samsung SSD and found it to be less clear than the micro SD cards that I use with a USB adaptor.
My biggest difference from your findings concerns Tidal. I find the SQ to be excellent. However, I am using Audivarna to upsample the Tidal stream before it goes to the Rpi and then to my Caiman DAC. The SQ is ultra smooth and very analogue. When upsmapled to DSD 128 or DSD 256, the sound I am getting from Tidal is amongst the best I have heard on my system.
Geoff
BTW; I did use Bubble PnP for a while. It is very user friendly and flexible but not a patch on the Audivarna for SQ or user interface.
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 19:00
My experience is a little different from yours. Yes the new RPi board is significantly better than the earlier versions. Of course, it should be, it is quite an upgrade from previous versions. I find the Rpi wifi to degrade SQ compared to a wired connection. I can detect no difference in SQ whether I play back files from a NAS connected to my router, or a memory device connected to the Rpi. However, I tried a Samsung SSD and found it to be less clear than the micro SD cards that I use with a USB adaptor.
My biggest difference from your findings concerns Tidal. I find the SQ to be excellent. However, I am using Audivarna to upsample the Tidal stream before it goes to the Rpi and then to my Caiman DAC. The SQ is ultra smooth and very analogue. When upsmapled to DSD 128 or DSD 256, the sound I am getting from Tidal is amongst the best I have heard on my system.
GeoffI haven't got the tidal upscaling stuff and to be honest, I am not really overly bothered about it. The tidal thing is another bill to me and when you don't want to pay anymore, your music collection is gone.
I'd rather buy 20 CDs for £20 per month, rip them and do it that way.
How are you using the MicroSd? A usb adaptor or are the files on the one that goes underneath the board? Cannot be done that way?
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 19:04
This is sounding very good
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190112/f3489ed8a8fc1cbe314d8386527df897.jpg
Sherwood
12-01-2019, 19:09
I haven't got the tidal upscaling stuff and to be honest, I am not really overly bothered about it. The tidal thing is another bill to me and when you don't want to pay anymore, your music collection is gone.
I'd rather buy 20 CDs for £20 per month, rip them and do it that way.
How are you using the MicroSd? A usb adaptor or are the files on the one that goes underneath the board? Cannot be done that way?
This sort of thing https://www.amazon.co.uk/SanDisk-SDDR-121-G35-MobileMate-MicroSD-Reader-x/dp/B01GOSW3EC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1547319992&sr=8-4&keywords=sandisk+micro+sd+reader
As to Tidal, I already have over 3,000 cds ripped to FLAC. I do not want to add further to my storage challenges. I consider Tidal an exteme bargain. For $20 a month I can listen to virtually unlimited new and new to me music in top quality. I listen to at least one new album a day so the $20 is peanuts.
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 19:12
This sort of thing https://www.amazon.co.uk/SanDisk-SDDR-121-G35-MobileMate-MicroSD-Reader-x/dp/B01GOSW3EC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1547319992&sr=8-4&keywords=sandisk+micro+sd+reader
As to Tidal, I already have over 3,000 cds ripped to FLAC. I do not want to add further to my storage challenges. I consider Tidal an exteme bargain. For $20 a month I can listen to virtually unlimited new and new to me music in top quality. I listen to at least one new album a day so the $20 is peanuts.Ah, yes, mine is very similar. Strange that I wasn't convinced it made a difference. Hey-ho, that's just hifi isn't it.
How are you using the MicroSd? A usb adaptor or are the files on the one that goes underneath the board? Cannot be done that way?
The micro sd you use for the OS can also be used for files storage and playback (certainly on Moode and I guess on Volumio too)
All you need to do is expand the available space on the OS card (done from within the Moode system settings)
This means you can chuck the OS onto a bigger MSD and use the rest of the space BUT - if the system goes down and you need to re-burn the OS, you lose all the stored files.
Might be a workaround but I tried it and found it not worth the hassle.
DarrenHW
12-01-2019, 20:34
Breaking into Saturday morning like a 16 year old in 1996 [emoji23]
I was 16 in 1996 and having spent many a morning with this blasting out of my Walkman whilst doing my paper round, I think it's a fine way to start the day:fingers:
As it seems you're using Volumio on a 3B+, it's worth looking into underclocking IMHO.
Nowhere near as difficult as it sounds, some useful info here http://theaudiostandard.net/thread/4168/make-tastier-pi-allegedly. Certainly less time consuming than comparing storage media and I possibly more audible?
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 20:46
I was 16 in 1996 and having spent many a morning with this blasting out of my Walkman whilst doing my paper round, I think it's a fine way to start the day:fingers:
As it seems you're using Volumio on a 3B+, it's worth looking into underclocking IMHO.
Nowhere near as difficult as it sounds, some useful info here http://theaudiostandard.net/thread/4168/make-tastier-pi-allegedly. Certainly less time consuming than comparing storage media and I possibly more audible?That Album was a must play at every party we threw. Seriously enjoyed the revisit today.
I'll buy it on CD and rip it. See what it sounds like.
This underclocking stuff sounds interesting. I'll have a look.
I was 16 in 1996 and having spent many a morning with this blasting out of my Walkman whilst doing my paper round, I think it's a fine way to start the day:fingers:
I was just about to turn 16 first time I saw the Prodigy in 1996 [emoji16]
Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk
Bigman80
12-01-2019, 21:01
I was just about to turn 16 first time I saw the Prodigy in 1996 [emoji16]
Sent from my SM-G950F using TapatalkLol, I never saw them but did sneak into and get ejected from Quest in Wolverhampton on two occasions [emoji23] I was 14 [emoji50]
As it seems you're using Volumio on a 3B+, it's worth looking into underclocking IMHO.
Nowhere near as difficult as it sounds, some useful info here http://theaudiostandard.net/thread/4168/make-tastier-pi-allegedly. Certainly less time consuming than comparing storage media and I possibly more audible?
Interesting tweak ... and love this comment from the author of the mod under discussion - sums it up perfectly IMV :lol:
http://archimago.blogspot.com/2017/01/measurements-raspberry-pi-3-as-usb.html
QUOTE:
"A. General Impressions
The Raspberry Pi 3 playing to the USB DAC is indeed "clean"; as in just as noise-free and "bit-perfect" as other computer-based servers sending to a good asynchronous DAC (no surprise and further discussed here last summer).
----
May I also remind everyone that this is all with an inexpensive switching power supply... No noise of significance even with the 192kHz test beyond the audible spectrum. I think it would be nice if the believers in linear power supplies can show some evidence that noise can be significantly improved at the DAC output since the cost of linear power supplies can be many times that of a Pi 3!"
(emphasis added)
DarrenHW
13-01-2019, 09:20
There seems to be a consensus, that if using a standalone Pi (i.e. no HAT) then PSU makes little difference. I USB out from the Pi to the Oppo and am very pleased with the results.
I'm still interested in upgrading to a LPS as I can use this to power my Pi and MiniDSP (for Subwoofer) which, if nothing else will remove 2 SMPS from my HiFi Radial.
Interesting tweak ... and love this comment from the author of the mod under discussion - sums it up perfectly IMV :lol:
http://archimago.blogspot.com/2017/01/measurements-raspberry-pi-3-as-usb.html
QUOTE:
"A. General Impressions
The Raspberry Pi 3 playing to the USB DAC is indeed "clean"; as in just as noise-free and "bit-perfect" as other computer-based servers sending to a good asynchronous DAC (no surprise and further discussed here last summer).
----
May I also remind everyone that this is all with an inexpensive switching power supply... No noise of significance even with the 192kHz test beyond the audible spectrum. I think it would be nice if the believers in linear power supplies can show some evidence that noise can be significantly improved at the DAC output since the cost of linear power supplies can be many times that of a Pi 3!"
(emphasis added)
That negates considering the main reason for installing a (Fully Regulated - *must* be that) linear PSU in the first place: preventing the injection of noise into the MAINS SUPPLY shared by the rest of the equipment.
(emphasis added);)
It's not just about improving the sound of the RPi or DAC, by addressing noise at circuit level. SMPS units are notoriously NOISY buggers, period!!
Therefore, eradicating that noise (by not using any in the first place), which they inject *at source* into the mains supply, thus contaminating everything else plugged into it, is where I think the bulk of the sonic benefit is gained.
Marco.
P.S Dazza, Happy New Year, mate! Hope Luke and you are well?:)
I was just about to turn 16 first time I saw the Prodigy in 1996 [emoji16]
Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk
Seen them for the first just before “Charley” came out at a rave in 1991,absolutely mind blowing!
DarrenHW
13-01-2019, 11:11
That negates considering the main reason for installing a (Fully Regulated - *must* be that) linear PSU in the first place: preventing the injection of noise into the mains supply shared by the rest of the equipment.
(emphasis added);)
It's not just about (arguably) directly improving the sound of the RPi. SMPS units are NOISY buggers!! And removing that noise is where I think the bulk of the benefit is gained.
Marco.
P.S Dazza, Happy New Year, mate! Hope Luke and you are well?:)
My sentiments exactly!
Happy New Year to you and Del. We're both good thanks, how's life at Marco Towers?
I've been meaning to find the time to pop round for a visit and pick up the BD's I lent you, but work keeps getting in the way :(. The system's moved on a few steps since you last heard it, mostly due to the addition of a second Nak (one for left channels and one for right) and bolstered by new Schuko power cables, interconnects (some balanced) and Bi-Amping the main speakers. As usual it's still a work in progress, you'll have to pop round for a film night once things have settled down a bit :cool:
My sentiments exactly!
Happy New Year to you and Del. We're both good thanks, how's life at Marco Towers?
I've been meaning to find the time to pop round for a visit and pick up the BD's I lent you, but work keeps getting in the way :(. The system's moved on a few steps since you last heard it, mostly due to the addition of a second Nak (one for left channels and one for right) and bolstered by new Schuko power cables, interconnects (some balanced) and Bi-Amping the main speakers. As usual it's still a work in progress, you'll have to pop round for a film night once things have settled down a bit :cool:
Sorry to crash the Post Darren but could you let me know what mods were made to your Lentek Head Amp by Nick G? You could let me know PM if you don't want to continue on here.
DarrenHW
13-01-2019, 11:55
I honestly have no idea, I bought it off of Marco, maybe he can shed some light on it?
I honestly have no idea, I bought it off of Marco, maybe he can shed some light on it?
Ok.
My sentiments exactly!
Happy New Year to you and Del. We're both good thanks, how's life at Marco Towers?
I've been meaning to find the time to pop round for a visit and pick up the BD's I lent you, but work keeps getting in the way :(. The system's moved on a few steps since you last heard it, mostly due to the addition of a second Nak (one for left channels and one for right) and bolstered by new Schuko power cables, interconnects (some balanced) and Bi-Amping the main speakers. As usual it's still a work in progress, you'll have to pop round for a film night once things have settled down a bit :cool:
Hi mate,
We're cool. Had a great time over the festive period - hope you did, too! Nothing much changed here. Main system upstairs is the same, other than I've now taken delivery of Chris' new LDR, which I haven't had the chance to try yet. Would be interesting hearing it in your system sometime...
I've been tweaking the downstairs streaming system, mainly with some new cables from Supra (HD5 HDMI and CAT 8 Ethernet), and also installing an SR Blue 13A fuse (see here: https://www.synergisticresearch.com/fuses/blue/) into the Supra Lo-Rad mains distribution block, feeding the system, which is sounding *really* good now, the effect of some of which has also had a positive impact on the playback of movies:)
You're welcome to drop by anytime to collect the BDs (remind me which ones they were?) Would love to hear your system again, now you've carried out the tweaks, and the film night sounds great!
In all seriousness, we should do that, as I'm buying more BDs myself now, so we could have alternative film evenings, introducing each other to a new film on our respective home-cinema systems, then borrow the BD in question and watch it again on our own system - accompanied, of course, by a good curry and few beers!:barrel:
Sounds fun, no?:cool:
Btw, if you like good Chinese food, the Eastern Sheraton in Wrexham is under new management, now called Great Walls, see here: https://www.google.com/search?q=great%20walls%20wrexham&oq=great+walls&aqs=chrome.3.69i57j0j35i39l2j0l2.4869j0j8&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&safe=active&npsic=0&rflfq=1&rlha=0&rllag=53078073,-3016373,4005&tbm=lcl&rldimm=7050774664006838190&ved=2ahUKEwjxnIiy3OrfAhUjt3EKHTiND8EQvS4wAHoECAAQI Q&rldoc=1&tbs=lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:9#rlfi=h d:;si:7050774664006838190;mv:!1m2!1d53.11492210000 001!2d-2.9867638!2m2!1d53.0412253!2d-3.0439645;tbs:lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_u i:9 Del and I have been twice, once for a sit-down meal, and also had a takeaway, and it's SUPERB! Knocks anything else in Wrexham, or surrounding area into a cocked hat. I'd give it a go. Collection only, though.
I'll bell you tomorrow and we can have a catch up.
Marco.
Ok.
Jim, I'm a bit tied up just now, but search the forum for anything under "Lentek head amp', the thread should pop up where I modded mine, and all the mods were listed:)
Marco.
Hi mate,
We're cool. Had a great time over the festive period - hope you did, too! Nothing much changed here. Main system upstairs is the same, other than I've now taken delivery of Chris' new LDR, which I haven't had the chance to try yet. Would be interesting hearing it in your system sometime...
And I've been tweaking the downstairs streaming system, mainly with some new cables from Supra (HDMI and CAT 8 patch), which is sounding *really* good now, and some of that has also had a positive knock-on effect on movies:)
You're welcome to drop by anytime to collect the BDs (remind me which ones they were?) Would love to hear your system again, now you've carried out the tweaks, and the film night sounds great!
In all seriousness, we should do that, as I'm buying more BDs myself now, so we could have alternative film evenings, introducing each other to a new film on our respective home-cinema systems, then borrow the BD in question and watch it on our own system - all accompanied, of course, by a good curry and few beers!:barrel:
Sounds fun, no?:cool: Btw, if you like good Chinese food, the Eastern Sheraton in Wrexham is under new management, now called Great Walls, see here: https://www.google.com/search?q=great%20walls%20wrexham&oq=great+walls&aqs=chrome.3.69i57j0j35i39l2j0l2.4869j0j8&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&safe=active&npsic=0&rflfq=1&rlha=0&rllag=53078073,-3016373,4005&tbm=lcl&rldimm=7050774664006838190&ved=2ahUKEwjxnIiy3OrfAhUjt3EKHTiND8EQvS4wAHoECAAQI Q&rldoc=1&tbs=lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_ui:9#rlfi=h d:;si:7050774664006838190;mv:!1m2!1d53.11492210000 001!2d-2.9867638!2m2!1d53.0412253!2d-3.0439645;tbs:lrf:!2m1!1e2!2m1!1e3!3sIAE,lf:1,lf_u i:9 Del and I have been twice, once for a sit-down meal, and also had a takeaway, and it's SUPERB! Knocks anything else in Wrexham, or surrounding area into a cocked hat. I'd give it a go. Collection only, though.
I'll bell you tomorrow and we can have a catch up.
Marco.
i suggest "Ripping Yarns" starring Michael Palin:eyebrows:
:lolsign:
Or Blazing Saddles?:D
Marco.
Stratmangler
13-01-2019, 12:30
:lolsign:
Or Blazing Saddles?:D
Marco.
It wasn't a fart reference
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8O1pH-NEa6I
Ah, in that case, the joke has flown over my head, as I've not seen that. Someone will have to explain the relevance:scratch:
Marco.
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 12:42
Any way.......
Back on Tidal, this sounds phenomenal. I may have written off the service a little quickly, although there nothing different in the setup, it all sounds better than yesterday.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190113/608874e7921f4f688be4edcd8b20572f.jpg
Ah, in that case, it's flown over my head, as I've not seen that. Someone will have to explain the relevance, as I don't get it:scratch:
Marco.
well it was and wasnt. title does conjure up curry afters.... and worth catching as you'd probably like them as well. top notch comedy
Any way.......
Back on Tidal, this sounds phenomenal. I may have written off the service a little quickly, although there nothing different in the setup, it all sounds better than yesterday.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190113/608874e7921f4f688be4edcd8b20572f.jpg
youve got a lot more to come from tidal i think. just need to try a few things. av is one; nuraphone cans may be too, even if you dont like cans:eyebrows:
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 12:50
Any way.......
Back on Tidal, this sounds phenomenal. I may have written off the service a little quickly, although there nothing different in the setup, it all sounds better than yesterday.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190113/608874e7921f4f688be4edcd8b20572f.jpg
To me, Tidal sounds great "out of the box"! However, when upscaled to DSD128 or higher with Audivarna, the sound is further transformed.
Been enjoying this MQ playlist this morning https://tidal.com/playlist/70909e21-0116-4555-b7a4-80784895e581
Geoff
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 12:51
To me, Tidal sounds great "out of the box"! However, when upscaled to DSD128 or higher with Audivarna, the sound is further transformed.
Been enjoying this MQ playlist this morning https://tidal.com/playlist/70909e21-0116-4555-b7a4-80784895e581
GeoffI am now interested in looking lol
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 12:59
I am now interested in looking lol
Nothing like a good cup of coffee and some Green Onions with the Sunday Newspapers!
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 13:03
Nothing like a good cup of coffee and some Green Onions with the Sunday Newspapers!Green onions?
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 13:05
I know. Realised after lolhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190113/693edd1f1d4107389b653145b33280b5.jpg
well it was and wasnt. title does conjure up curry afters.... and worth catching as you'd probably like them as well. top notch comedy
Lol... Ok, I was aware of Ripping Yarns, but haven't seen much of it, as it's a bit before my time (at least when I'd have been old enough to appreciate it).
Marco.
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 13:11
Green onions?
No: Green Onions! Booker T and the MGs .....
A classic brain worm tune! STAX at its best!
Green onions?
Never mind that - what are "newspapers"?:D
Haven't bought one in about 10 years... Thought they'd be extinct by now!
Marco.
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 13:12
There a few different versions of "Time Out - Dave Brubeck"
The 1990 version is far better than the remastered 2004 (?) Version that I was just listening to.
Maybe that's where I went wrong yesterday.
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 13:12
No: Green Onions! Booker T and the MGs .....I realised after I said it lol
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 13:26
Never mind that - what are "newspapers"?:D
Haven't bought one in about 10 years... Thought they'd be extinct by now!
Marco.
I was using the term generically. I have used this service for years when I was living overseas. Great on my 4k monitor and no trees had to die in the reporting of this story ....
https://www.pressreader.com/
Geoff
As for Tidal, I've had no issues with it whatsoever. It's always sounded great to me, and significantly better than Spotify, which sonically I find rather disappointing...
Especially any of the 'Master' recordings on Tidal, which sound stunning. Outside of that, I've also noticed that recently, after some updates, the little green Hi-Fi logo is now permanently illuminated, which didn't happen before, via Chromecast.
Marco.
I was using the term generically. I have used this service for years when I was living overseas. Great on my 4k monitor and no trees had to die in the reporting of this story ....
https://www.pressreader.com/
Ah, I see. I was wondering!:)
I still see the paper ones for sale in shops though, although no idea who buys them. Probably old folks who don't own a phone or computer.
Marco.
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 13:29
As for Tidal, I've had no issues with it whatsoever. It's always sounded great to me, and significantly better than Spotify, which sonically I find rather disappointing...
Especially any of the 'Master' recordings on Tidal, which sound stunning. Outside of that, I've also noticed that recently, after some updates, the little green Hi-Fi logo is now permanently illuminated, which didn't happen before, via Chromecast.
Marco.
Tidal recently made MQA files available on Android devices. Guessing the CCA has been uprated too.
CCA?:hmm:
For whatever reason, since the permanent illumination of the 'Hi-Fi' logo on playback, overall SQ on Tidal has gone up a notch, and it wan't too shabby before either!:)
Marco.
chrome cast audio... bloody decent out of a decent phone(tidal).. sony for instance
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 14:44
chrome cast audio... bloody decent out of a decent phone(tidal).. sony for instance
Agreed, especially using an optical cable into a decent DAC. Anyone wanting to try out streaming should snap one of these up before the final stocks are depleted!
chrome cast audio...
Ah, yes of course!:doh:
Marco.
Agreed, especially using an optical cable into a decent DAC. Anyone wanting to try out streaming should snap one of these up before the final stocks are depleted!
"These", as in...? :)
Marco.
Sherwood
13-01-2019, 15:08
"These", as in...? :)
Marco.
As referenced in my comment: a CCA (Chromecast Audio).
Google have decided to discontinue the CCA and I know some places were selling these (RRP £30) at silly low prices!
Thanks, but the problem is I still don't really understand what "these" are... For me, Chromecast is simply software built into the Chrome browser on my laptop, which I use to 'cast' music, via Tidal, to my compatible TV or amp, so how do you buy a "CCA' on it's own?:)
So when are Google discontinuing it, and why? And by "it", I mean the software for the Chrome browser. That'll be a blow to lots of folks. Seems a bit daft to me, when it's so popular! I'd gladly pay extra just to keep the service.
Marco.
It’s a small device that plugs into your DAC and allows you to stream wirelessly to it.
Ah, I see., thanks. I've never used one, so wasn't aware of it:)
So that's what Google are discontinuing then, not removing the casting facility from their browser software?
Marco.
yup, its a disc shaped streamer. they will keep the cast function
Cool, that's all I'm worried about, as I don't use that other device.
Marco.
Bigman80
13-01-2019, 17:44
I am now fully independant of the loan Kit.
I have created a Boot SD for the Pi!
Off to look at "Clocking the Pi"
Never mind that - what are "newspapers"?:D
Haven't bought one in about 10 years... Thought they'd be extinct by now!
Marco.
'Newspapers' are the Analogue form of Digital Newspapers, they are the Vinyl, Cassette, CD (only tactile ) of their day, a tactile experience to be embraced when experiencing a media.
Newspapers share a wonderful history of being repurposed, just like the other tactile media materials.
Vinyl had some exemplary uses beyond supplying a groove for a Stylus to Plough through.
It made wall clocks hip, it became book ends, Magazine racks, Side Tables, wine racks.
Just as CD's had a secondary life beyond replaying music, like making dam good reflectors on gate posts, coasters for cups in your vinyl only listening room, shims to help level a Turntable Plinth, oh and don't forget the seasonal Ice Scraper, you all might be needing one of these soon.
I don't want to disclose all the fun, so I'm sure finding out the repurposing of casette tapes will be a time well spent for those interested.
As for Newspapers WOW! how about boot fair crockery protection, Lighting the fire Brrrr,
Papier Mache Modelling 'Oh What memories' Putting the veg peels in for the Compost Heap.
Top of the list though, you aint had Fish and Chips until your devoured them out of a Newspaper Wrapping, Halcyon days or what.
Streaming, Streaming, where's the fun in that :lol:
Haha - great post, John!:respect:
I do concur with the sentiments behind it.
Marco.
Bigman80
20-01-2019, 15:31
The linear power supply arrived for the Raspberry Pi a few days ago but obviously due to me breaking my wrist my thumb etc I haven't been able to give it try.
Alan popped round today to collect a few bits and pieces so while he was here I asked him if he would put the Raspberry Pi together with the linear power supply.
We had a little hour session and straight away the power supply made a lot of difference. it just cleaned the sound up is probably the easiest way to describe it. For me there is a definite removal of bloom from the bass which was a bit of a shame really because as I suspected I do have a little bit of a bass deficiency from my DCB1. This came to light a while back when Steve and I made the same preamp and we both opted to use audio note tantulums. unfortunately Steve found they were a little shy in the low frequencies but up until now as I'd only been using the Raspberry Pi with standard smps, I hadn't realised.
Implementing the linear power supply it became obvious very very quickly to me that the audio note Tantalum are a problem in the preamp and I will be removing them as soon as I can move my hand.
So on to the power supply: it cost approximately £50 to get into the UK. I didn't pay any charges on that when it landed so I'm very pleased. According to Alan's estimation it's providing 5 volts and about 1.75 amps which is a little down on the advertised 3 amps but being from China nothing is ever quite what it seems I'm very pleased with the results on one hand because it's quite obvious that there's more performance to be had from the pie with a few astute purchases.
I need to change resistors in the preamp which is depressing but this a good upgrade in my opinion.
I may look at improving the PSU with a bit more amps.
Bigman80
23-01-2019, 11:47
Further investigation of media streaming and storage based file replay has lead me to Universal Media Server. Its a free DLNA-compliant UPnP Media Server. Once installed on my laptop i had to elect which folder from my Hard Drive i wanted to share. One done it built the library. Within 10 Minutes I was up and running from the "Streams" section of Volumio. Really easy!
So far i am pretty convinced that the SQ is far better than any form of USB based storage i have tried. I would say if the file is HiRes, It's also better than Tidal, which as a service i have been quite surprised with. It became my preferred source, but not now. Why one would be better, i dont know because they are both streaming to the Pi in the same way.
Well happy.
Bigman80
23-01-2019, 11:53
Sounds great. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190123/f622d0ef61725215e5e7eb9988029f2d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190123/b109b36f8b4f19621c20afcf15e5f51a.jpg
Sounds great. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190123/f622d0ef61725215e5e7eb9988029f2d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190123/b109b36f8b4f19621c20afcf15e5f51a.jpg
LPS?
Bigman80
23-01-2019, 12:32
LPS?Yup. Linear power supply indeed!
Bigman80
21-04-2019, 15:25
I've been on a bit of a relentless pursuit of Pi improvement. I started off with a early version of the Allo Boss DAC (not the 1.2v) and a Pi 2, this was enough to convince me that it would be wise to investigate this source more.
I decided to go mad. I bought the Boss 1.2v, Isolator 1.2, Pi 3+ and a Linear PSU.
The results were, In all honesty, staggering.
I'm not joking when I say, it made the Chord Dave pee it's pants with fear.
This whole setup cost me approximately £200. Outrageous.
Based on Jimbo's input, I decided to try upsampling. I downloaded Jriver and set it to something like 32/196. To my ears, it's a horribly shrill sound and removed the bass texture and pure Solidity that had originally won me over.
I spent a few days going down the entire sampling range untill I found 24/96. To me, it sounds superb. Huge soundstage but retained that solidity. Cool!
So what next. Well, more input from Firebottle suggested that using the same LPSU to power both Pi and Allo Boss "Could be a negative" I talked to Jimbo and he'd heard the best way to power this combo was a SMPS for the Pi and the LPSU for the DAC. I tried this but was never convinced that it sounded as clean/transparent.
I went shopping in Chi-Fi heaven and bought a second LPSU.
It arrived at a neighbors yesterday and I've been listening to it this afternoon. OMG. Its transformative in the way of making Eva Cassidy sound like she's in a bloody cavern!
I am really pleased with the second units contribution to this and will be thoroughly enjoying the digital aspect for some time to come.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190421/c5dad942cb23aa05ca76e23e379cdbe1.jpg
brian2957
21-04-2019, 15:32
Nice write up . How's it comparing to your vinyl set up Oli ?
I will probably be going down this route at some point and appreciate you and James sharing your experience :)
Bigman80
21-04-2019, 15:37
How's it comparing to your vinyl set up Oli ?I don't want to say.
Its a horrible feeling Brian. The Pi is so far ahead in terms of resolution, noise floor and solidity (think R2R levels of solidity) that I'm struggling to listen to vinyl at all.
Normally you'd say things like, "digital doesn't sound natural" but it really does in this format.
It's taken over my day to day listening and is continually opening up and showing more quality. I'm thinking the Katana might eradicate my vinyl habit completely.
brian2957
21-04-2019, 16:14
That's some statement fro a ' dyed in the wool ' vinyl man Oli . I've been into digital for some years now , however , there's always been elements of vinyl which I've always been attracted to . If your set up is that good I think I will be investigating the Pi sooner rather than later .
Bigman80
21-04-2019, 16:36
That's some statement fro a ' dyed in the wool ' vinyl man Oli . I've been into digital for some years now , however , there's always been elements of vinyl which I've always been attracted to . If your set up is that good I think I will be investigating the Pi sooner rather than later .I don't make that statement light, Brian.
I went to great lengths to get the best from Vinyl and don't get me wrong, it's stunning but you can't compete with the inky black background is digital and the only thing digital was lacking was fluidity and naturalism. Allo have nailed it IMHO.
For the money, I just can't see a downside and I'll just reiterate, I came away from a £200,000 system with about the same spent on the listening room with an M-scaler and a Chord Dave Signature model and felt everything the Allo Boss did well, the Dave didn't.
I'd take the Allo over the Dave. Not saying one is better, than the other, just that I'd take Allos idea of what digital can do over Chords.
I hope my LPSU is waiting for me when I get back into work on Tuesday!:lol: They must have been on the same flight?
The Allo Boss 1.2 /Pi3/Isolator 1.3 is a conundrum. How does someone take the humble Pi which is apparently awful to listen too and attach a sublime HAT ( BOSS DAC) and Isolate it from the negative aspects of the Pi to become a killer Network player/ DAC.
Yep Oli is right this combination with a couple of LPSU running the DAC and Pi separately will give you the most listenable digital sound I have heard period.
Those guys at Allo nailed the Boss to extract the best possible digital to analogue conversion through excellent clock timing and careful orientating of power supplies throughout especially to the analogue stage.
I could write a review on the Pi / Boss but that will come later when I get my head round the whole journey. Although I can hear all the benefits and astounding accomplishment this set up can achieve I still have some reservations which I need to think about , however this £200 combination (£300 with 2X LPSU) will give you a digital sound up there with the very best at a fraction of the cost. As Oli says it takes the piss out of the big boys.
Bigman80
21-04-2019, 19:35
I hope my LPSU is waiting for me when I get back into work on Tuesday![emoji38] They must have been on the same flight?One would hope so.
Oh, and that lack of deep bass at higher levels of upsampling has been repaired slightly by the second LPSU.
Cool.
Hi Oliver
As you know I've not got a great deal of time for anything at the moment but I'm really looking forward to getting mine from a very kind man who ordered and assebled it.
Hopefully some time soon,and will get a little time to get familiar and have a listen..
Steve...
Bigman80
21-04-2019, 20:22
Hi Oliver
As you know I've not got a great deal of time for anything at the moment but I'm really looking forward to getting mine from a very kind man who ordered and assebled it.
Hopefully some time soon,and will get a little time to get familiar and have a listen..
Steve...I know Steve. Yes, it'll be a surprise to your ears after listening to a CD player [emoji23]
I'll pop a link on here to the PSU if it's of interest. The 2 together really make a difference.
You are in for a surprise Steve and guarantee your jaw will drop when you get it all set up. It is a sonic marvel for the money and it would still be considered great at 10 times the price.
Hi Oliver
I’m going to go down the same route with the allo kit.
I’m really interested in the linear power supplies you got
Can you provide a link ?
£50 sounds reasonable enough to have a punt.
Cheers Steve
I've been on a bit of a relentless pursuit of Pi improvement. I started off with a early version of the Allo Boss DAC (not the 1.2v) and a Pi 2, this was enough to convince me that it would be wise to investigate this source more.
I decided to go mad. I bought the Boss 1.2v, Isolator 1.2, Pi 3+ and a Linear PSU.
The results were, In all honesty, staggering.
I'm not joking when I say, it made the Chord Dave pee it's pants with fear.
This whole setup cost me approximately £200. Outrageous.
Based on Jimbo's input, I decided to try upsampling. I downloaded Jriver and set it to something like 32/196. To my ears, it's a horribly shrill sound and removed the bass texture and pure Solidity that had originally won me over.
I spent a few days going down the entire sampling range untill I found 24/96. To me, it sounds superb. Huge soundstage but retained that solidity. Cool!
So what next. Well, more input from Firebottle suggested that using the same LPSU to power both Pi and Allo Boss "Could be a negative" I talked to Jimbo and he'd heard the best way to power this combo was a SMPS for the Pi and the LPSU for the DAC. I tried this but was never convinced that it sounded as clean/transparent.
I went shopping in Chi-Fi heaven and bought a second LPSU.
It arrived at a neighbors yesterday and I've been listening to it this afternoon. OMG. Its transformative in the way of making Eva Cassidy sound like she's in a bloody cavern!
I am really pleased with the second units contribution to this and will be thoroughly enjoying the digital aspect for some time to come.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190421/c5dad942cb23aa05ca76e23e379cdbe1.jpg
Bigman80
22-04-2019, 09:08
Hi Oliver
I’m going to go down the same route with the allo kit.
I’m really interested in the linear power supplies you got
Can you provide a link ?
£50 sounds reasonable enough to have a punt.
Cheers SteveYup, VERY reasonable
Here you go:
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F 142731699776
Yup, VERY reasonable
Here you go:
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F 142731699776
Thought it might be that one, but wasn’t sure. Cheers.
I have a few pi’s in various configurations... but the reviews of allo products make you curious.
Trying to get my head around the difference between Katana and Boss... will have to do a bit more research
Thanks again
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Bourneendboy
22-04-2019, 09:20
What benefits does the isolater board bring?
I'm currently using a Boss 1.2 in an aluminium Allo case, don't think there is room for it.
The Black Adder
22-04-2019, 10:26
It really makes a difference in sound. It really does tidy the presentation up even more.
The case you have won't fit and I'm not sure if Allo make an aluminium case that fits with the isolator.
Sent from my 9001X using Tapatalk
Pepperamip
24-04-2019, 07:33
I always wondered if you die hard vinly boys could be won over with a bit of convincing. Looks like this one has. Welcome to the world ones and noughts Ollie :)
Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 08:09
I always wondered if you die hard vinly boys could be won over with a bit of convincing. Looks like this one has. Welcome to the world ones and noughts Ollie :)
Sent from my CLT-L09 using TapatalkIt's taken a very special (IMO) piece of kit to do it. I'd never heard anything that gave a natural presentation except for maybe a Teradac many years ago but it was hardly ever going to trouble the Vinyl, even then when my vinyl setup was an Inspire Quest with Goldring 2100. (great setup that was)
Systems that have cost more than my house (£150000) have left me cold and bored, yet this little box has blown my thoughts on digital out of the water.
Lampazator, Chord Dave and others have been auditioned but never convinced me that vinyl could be beaten or .
Allo have captured the fluidity that Vinyl is so good at and that's been the biggest factor for me. The ability to just sit and listen to track after track with no fatigue.
Once I started to "believe" Mikeyb was on to something with his setup that I'd loaned, I decided to go the whole hog and see exactly what it could do. IMO, the Allo setup benefits hugely from being able to run on a NAS with software like Volumio. USB input has nobbled the best of digitals offerings so again, another plus for Pi and Allo pairing.
A Bel canto recently went up against the Pi and got hammered. I think a pi with spdif out to the Bel canto would create an interesting test though and solely blame the USB input for its poor showing. However, I still think the pi with its options and superb sound quality will prove too much value for people to ignore.
Once you get over the setup fear, it rewards you with addictive listening.
I have a phonostage coming on trial, built by a friend of mine. Its going to be interesting to see if I can get more from my vinyl setup and open the gap back up from digital.
mightymonoped
24-04-2019, 09:04
It's taken a very special (IMO) piece of kit to do it. I'd never heard anything that gave a natural presentation except for maybe a Teradac many years ago but it was hardly ever going to trouble the Vinyl, even then when my vinyl setup was an Inspire Quest with Goldring 2100. (great setup that was)
Systems that have cost more than my house (£150000) have left me cold and bored, yet this little box has blown my thoughts on digital out of the water.
Lampazator, Chord Dave and others have been auditioned but never convinced me that vinyl could be beaten or .
Allo have captured the fluidity that Vinyl is so good at and that's been the biggest factor for me. The ability to just sit and listen to track after track with no fatigue.
Once I started to "believe" Mikeyb was on to something with his setup that I'd loaned, I decided to go the whole hog and see exactly what it could do. IMO, the Allo setup benefits hugely from being able to run on a NAS with software like Volumio. USB input has nobbled the best of digitals offerings so again, another plus for Pi and Allo pairing.
A Bel canto recently went up against the Pi and got hammered. I think a pi with spdif out to the Bel canto would create an interesting test though and solely blame the USB input for its poor showing. However, I still think the pi with its options and superb sound quality will prove too much value for people to ignore.
Once you get over the setup fear, it rewards you with addictive listening.
I have a phonostage coming on trial, built by a friend of mine. Its going to be interesting to see if I can get more from my vinyl setup and open the gap back up from digital.
Then you'll just have to try the Katana Ollie? :)
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 09:11
Then you'll just have to try the Katana Ollie? :)I'm going to be trialling a Pecan Pi very shortly and then who knows! I may get the Katana as well so I can A/B them.
Ollie what settings are available in voluminous/ jriver for upsampling? In piecoreplayer you have full control over filter settings and other parameters, I found tweaking these made a large improvement with my Kali/TDA1541 combo
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 10:03
Ollie what settings are available in voluminous/ jriver for upsampling? In piecoreplayer you have full control over filter settings and other parameters, I found tweaking these made a large improvement with my Kali/TDA1541 comboAh, well now we're talking a language I'm not great at.
Volumio says it can upscale to 32/196 I think, Jriver does 32/3?? But the DAC chip doesn't allow that. The max is 32/196
Please note, I am not 100% sure of the 196 number. It may be slightly different
I haven't experimented with any other players as of yet.
Pepperamip
24-04-2019, 10:20
A Bel canto recently went up against the Pi and got hammered. I think a pi with spdif out to the Bel canto would create an interesting test though and solely blame the USB input for its poor showing. However, I still think the pi with its options and superb sound quality will prove too much value for people to ignore.[/QUOTE]
Ollie, I know you didn't get on with the Caiman seg but if you ever want to want to hear my digione through it, it may change your mind about what the seg is capable of.
I could trial a set of your RCAs in the process too.
Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 11:10
A Bel canto recently went up against the Pi and got hammered. I think a pi with spdif out to the Bel canto would create an interesting test though and solely blame the USB input for its poor showing. However, I still think the pi with its options and superb sound quality will prove too much value for people to ignore.
Ollie, I know you didn't get on with the Caiman seg but if you ever want to want to hear my digione through it, it may change your mind about what the seg is capable of.
I could trial a set of your RCAs in the process too.
Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk[/QUOTE]Well, the digione is certainly well regarded but I really didn't get on with the SEG.
Kent is a decent decent from Wolverhampton but I could be tempted. Let me have a think and see what sort of time I can get of work
Bourneendboy
24-04-2019, 19:27
Can someone please clarify upsampling in Volumio. I have it set to 24/96, but still shows as 44.1/16 on the playback screen. This is whilst playing files from as USB stick.
Thanks fellas!
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 20:04
Can someone please clarify upsampling in Volumio. I have it set to 24/96, but still shows as 44.1/16 on the playback screen. This is whilst playing files from as USB stick.
Thanks fellas!I can't get it to show anything like it says.
I set it to 32/19? And it never does.
Placed an order for a Allo Boss 1.2 and isolator board today after being impressed with Alans demo.
I already have the version 1 boss in my own system so looking forward to seeing what the updated board and isolator bring.
Oh, and Ive ordered the latest pi just for good measure.
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 20:28
Placed an order for a Allo Boss 1.2 and isolator board today after being impressed with Alans demo.
I already have the version 1 boss in my own system so looking forward to seeing what the updated board and isolator bring.
Oh, and Ive ordered the latest pi just for good measure.Did you order the 1.2 isolator? Its a better fit for the Boss and Pi rig.
Did you order the 1.2 isolator? Its a better fit for the Boss and Pi rig.
Yes I believe it was Oliver.
Very tempted with those lpsu you have as well.
What was the shipping timescale?
Did you order the 1.2 isolator? Its a better fit for the Boss and Pi rig.
Just checked Oliver and it looks like I've got the version 1 isolator coming.
Are you saying this won't fit?
Cheers
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 20:49
Just checked Oliver and it looks like I've got the version 1 isolator coming.
Are you saying this won't fit?
CheersFrom what Alan tells me, it requires a different voltage, the 1.2 uses the same Voltage as the Pi and DAC, requiring no extra messing about.
Personally, I'd cancel the order and buy the 1.2 version.
I know that's probably a ball ache but I'm just advising my opinion.
The LPSU took a couple of weeks this time, nearly a month last time so schedule for a month.
From what Alan tells me, it requires a different voltage, the 1.2 uses the same Voltage as the Pi and DAC, requiring no extra messing about.
Personally, I'd cancel the order and buy the 1.2 version.
I know that's probably a ball ache but I'm just advising my opinion.
The LPSU took a couple of weeks this time, nearly a month last time so schedule for a month.
OK thanks.
I'm popping round Alans tomorrow so I'll mention it to him.
Sherwood
24-04-2019, 21:01
Haven't Allo just released version 1.3 of the Isolator board?
It is in stock on the Audiophonics web site ....https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/single-board-computers-et-hats/allo-isolator-v13-galvanic-isolator-i2s-gpio-for-katana-boss-p-13317.html
Bigman80
24-04-2019, 21:05
Haven't Allo just released version 1.3 of the Isolator board?
It is in stock on the Audiophonics web site ....https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/single-board-computers-et-hats/allo-isolator-v13-galvanic-isolator-i2s-gpio-for-katana-boss-p-13317.htmlI do mean that one. Thanks!
Bigman80
27-04-2019, 17:21
Well, latest little upgrade to the digital side is a pair of new Ethernet cables.
I am not a great believer in ethernet cables making a lot of difference so imagine my surprise when these little beauties blew my socks off! A pair of 5m cables cost under £20, ridiculous.
Where does this madness end? LPSU on the router next?? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190427/4ec6c52670392a06b971cf09d7603996.jpg
Well, latest little upgrade to the digital side is a pair of new Ethernet cables.
I am not a great believer in ethernet cables making a lot of difference so imagine my surprise when these little beauties blew my socks off! A pair of 5m cables cost under £20, ridiculous.
Where does this madness end? LPSU on the router next?? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190427/4ec6c52670392a06b971cf09d7603996.jpg
Nice cable Oli, I have exactly the same. I think the Cat6a is same spec as Cat7?
Bigman80
27-04-2019, 17:32
Nice cable Oli, I have exactly the same. I think the Cat6a is same spec as Cat7?No idea Jim!
I'm sure someone here will know.
Yes, I picked out your thread from a little while back and these seemed to be a good quality cable for super cheap money, just what I like [emoji23][emoji23]
I don't know why they make a difference but they definitely do. Acoustic information is vastly improved. Its madness.
killie99
27-04-2019, 20:59
G
Where does this madness end? LPSU on the router next?? https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190427/4ec6c52670392a06b971cf09d7603996.jpg
Already done that and I believe it made an improvement even though my engineering background tells me that’s impossible. Currently building a DCG3 preamp to see if improves on my Perreaux Eloquence 250i Anniversary . If it does I’ll be looking for a diy power amp project, possibly a Pass Labs F5. I think the DIY route is the way forward as it lets you try out lots of different options for very little money. When I think of the amount of money I’ve spent on this hobby over the years I wish I’d gone down the DIY route years ago.
Duronic cable is good stuff.
Bigman80
27-04-2019, 21:57
G
Already done that and I believe it made an improvement even though my engineering background tells me that’s impossible. Currently building a DCG3 preamp to see if improves on my Perreaux Eloquence 250i Anniversary . If it does I’ll be looking for a diy power amp project, possibly a Pass Labs F5. I think the DIY route is the way forward as it lets you try out lots of different options for very little money. When I think of the amount of money I’ve spent on this hobby over the years I wish I’d gone down the DIY route years ago.DIY is definitely the way to go. I 100% agree.
Bigman80
27-04-2019, 21:58
Duronic cable is good stuff.I'm blown away by what I've heard. Its absolutely madness.
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