Folks...same questions about the pick list...
I have been searching the Twisted Pears site for a FAQ section or other places that list all the hardware needed for the Digital Inputs into the Buffalo DAC, the best analog lines stage hardware, and the power supply hardware needed to run all of it.
I have not found that data, so I guess I have the same questions about the pick list needed.
The DAC will need be used with a DIY Shiga CD Transport feeding into S/PDIF input. I will also use it for digital feed from a computer server, likely via a USB port.
The Analog line level output will be used as single ended RCA out only, though I will have balanced outputs if at some point in the future I go that route. This will feed to my a preamp line level RCA inputs.
I will NOT be using this to power headphones directly, though I might want a second pair of RCA outs that could feed to a dedicated headphone amp, so long as that does not require a second Analog line stage.
What I know I need:Buffalo-III DAC, $379
• (1) Buffalo-III Base Module (Assembled and Tested)
• (1) AVCC Dual Shunt Regulator Module (Assembled and Tested)
• (2) Trident 3.3V Shunt Regulator Module (Assembled and Tested)
• (1) Trident 1.2V Shunt Regulator Module (Assembled and Tested)
4-Channel S/PDIF Level Converter, $40
• Converts up to 4 Consumer-level S/PDIF or AES-EBU inputs to TTL-level S/PDIF
• Mates directly to Buffalo-III input terminals (or via included cable)
• Powered by Buffalo-III' VD supply via input header
4-Input Selection Switch Kit, $16
• Allows selection between S/PDIF inputs 1 - 4
• Connects to Buffalo-III EXT_I/O header with included cable
• LED Indication of selected input
• Mounts directly to front panel
USB Receiver Module (Assembled and Tested), $60...???It appears feeds into one of the S/PDIF Level Converter Inputs. Is that correct?
Digital Power Supply
9V+9V (15VA) Power Transformer, $23
Placid HD Power Supply Kit set to 5VDC, $60
Analog Stage Power Supply
15V+15V (30VA) Power Transformer, $25...Assuming just one (1) is required, see question below.
Not sure which one sounds better or how many are needed:Legato v3.1 Kit for Buffalo-II, $115
Not knowing, do I need the output buffer option and which sounds better?
Just from reading the site stuff, it appears that the Legato may be better sounding than the IVY-III Kit...anyone have feedback on this?
Placid HD Bipolar Power Supply Kit, $90....OR.... Low Current Bipolar Supply Kit, $55
The question here is one considered “better” than the other?
There is mention that you need between one (and up to three) ±15VDC power supplies with NO explanation for when that might be the case.
For just the one (1) Legato v3.1 Line Stage Kit...how many ±15VDC Bipolar Power Supply Kit are really needed?
If more than one ±15VDC Bipolar Power Supply Kit is required, then does each require a dedicated 15V+15V (30VA) Power Transformer?
What I am not sure I need:
Sidecar S/PDIF/PCM Switch Module Kit, $35
• Mates between 4-Input S/PDIF Module and Buffalo-III
• Switched between S/PDIF inputs and PCM (I2S) or DSD inputs
• Powered by Buffalo-III' VD supply via input header
Trident Combo for Buffalo-III (v3), $90...This I realize is just an upgrade to the on-board regulators. Does anyone have experience with these and is this subtle improvement or a big one?
Thanks for any and all feedback on these questions!
Edited by user Tuesday, September 4, 2012 9:33:28 PM(UTC)
| Reason: Not specified
