USB vs Coax input to DAC

[dpdp]

Hi, have an RME ADI2 DAC which is connected to my iMAC via USB. There is only one USB input socket on the DAC. I have added another source, an old Macbook, which I have connected to the DAC´s Coax input using a USB/SPDIF converter, an old HagUSB. Should that make any difference to the sound versus a straight USB connection? Would it be better to connect both computers to the USB input of the DAC via a USB switcher, or might that degrade the sound? The iMAC connection is the more important. Thanks

 

[daftcombo]

Hi, have an RME ADI2 DAC which is connected to my iMAC via USB. There is only one USB input socket on the DAC. I have added another source, an old Macbook, which I have connected to the DAC´s Coax input using a USB/SPDIF converter, an old HagUSB. Should that make any difference to the sound versus a straight USB connection?

No.

 

[mansr]

By all indications, the RME DAC performs superbly with any input. Use whatever is most convenient. USB switchers are mainly used for keyboards and mice, so they might not support high-speed mode. That said, if you have one that works, it will not impact the sound.

 

[dpdp]

Thanks. That´s what I wanted to hear.

 

[Zek]

I have added another source, an old Macbook

You can connect it with optical cable to RME DAC.

 

[dpdp]

Thanks, but in this case that is not an option, as the input is already used. I imagine it would be of equal quality.