Adding USB to S/PDIF Converter in Signal Chain : Any benefits ?

[Theodore8]

In a 2017 review, @amirm wrote:

Eight years later, I am wondering if this argues for adding a USB to S/PDIF converter to my signal chain, which currently is:

[Intel NUC ROCK server] > Ethernet cable > [RPi4 running Ropieee] > USB cable > RME-ADI2-FS > Power Amplifier

Any views?

 

[staticV3]

If USB works fine in your setup, then there's no point in switching to SPDIF.

SPDIF's only advantage with modern DACs is electrical isolation via Toslink.

Every other aspect will be equal to, or worse than, USB.

 

[MatrixS2000]

I see in your sig that you have an RME. I suggest you run RME's bit test over the USB link. If that comes out as a passed test, then you have a bit perfect playback path. What could you improve upon once you have a perfect playback path?

 

[Theodore8]

I see in your sig that you have an RME. I suggest you run RME's bit test over the USB link. If that comes out as a passed test, then you have a bit perfect playback path. What could you improve upon once you have a perfect playback path?

Thank you very much. I did not know about RME’s “bit test” feature. Will look up the manual!

 

[unpluggged]

I see in your sig that you have an RME. I suggest you run RME's bit test over the USB link. If that comes out as a passed test, then you have a bit perfect playback path. What could you improve upon once you have a perfect playback path?

The ADI-2 FS has no bit test feature and no USB interface. Hence the OP must use a USB/SPDIF adapter to be able to connect it to the Pi.

That's if they state their RME's model name correctly, of course

 

[MatrixS2000]

The ADI-2 FS has no bit test feature and no USB interface. Hence the OP must use a USB/SPDIF adapter to be able to connect it to the Pi.

That's if they state their RME's model name correctly, of course

Yes, it is my error, I read it wrong. Apologies to the OP.

 

[Theodore8]

Yes, it is my error, I read it wrong. Apologies to the OP.

Actually, it is my error.

It is an RME ADI-2 DAC FS.

My apologies to all for the confusion I created.

 

[MatrixS2000]

Then you are good to go with bit test. Post if you have any problems.