A couple of most important points on mains transformers differences. Some of these probably counteract to what you have learnt on this topic before but, as one fellow audio enthusiast wrote in the early days of the internet (when internet was young and pure), “most things we could learn about hi-fi were simply wrong anyway”. Food for thought.
PSU transformers: EI vs. toroidal, and more Read More »
Audial DACs are famous for using all quality parts, and not one or two for marketing purposes. Still, is S1 (single crown) really better than plain TDA1541A (or non -A), and is S2 (double crown) then better than S1?
TDA1541A and Model S USB, part 4: TDA1541A grades and series Read More »
It is important to understand that TDA1541(A) wasn’t one simple point in DAC chips history, but the end and crown of its own era, in which DAC chips did not perform any kind of processing.
TDA1541A and Model S USB, part 3: TDA1541A today Read More »
In the Model S USB, TDA1541A operates in simultaneous data mode, and this is why Model S USB is practically free of data related jitter artifacts.
Model S USB is the only DAC with TDA1541A operating in simultaneous data mode.
TDA1541A and Model S USB, part 2: Simultaneous data mode Read More »
Tthe Model S USB uses TDA1541A and it is up to 192 kHz compatible device. It means that it does not downsample, neither inside the DAC nor at PC side, but it just converts any 44.1/48/88.2/96/176.4/192 kHz file directly, at its native frequency.
TDA1541A and Model S USB, part 1: 192 kHz? Read More »
Model S USB in comparison to Model S.
Model S USB, on a more specific level (3) Read More »
More on Model S USB front end.
Model S USB, on a more specific level (2) Read More »
Those technically oriented might want to look at the overall architecture drawing.
Model S USB, on a more specific level Read More »
As opposed to the S/PDIF, USB is a bidirectional protocol that makes possible to make a peripheral device (here the D /A converter) act as a master device, and PC as a slave that delivers the data only when and as requested by the DAC. This way, the overall clock performance at the DAC is not related to and limited by the quality of PLL used, or by PC. It is solely determined by the quality of free running oscillator, placed locally in the DAC. Such a solution became lately known as an “asynchronous USB”.
