• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

DTS AC3 5.1 Digital Audio Decoder DAC

R

redjr

AK Subscriber
Subscriber
Hi all -

Wondering if anyone owns and is using one of these DACs? I'm looking for a multi-input device that I can use with a vintage stereo rcvr. I have the need for multiple, digital inputs, like Toslink, Coax, and USB. This particular unit offers up 2 of each and 1 USB.

I don't have the immediate need for the extra 3.1 channels, nor the FM, or SD slot, although they are nice to have in a compact unit and could come in handy in the future. I need the Toslink/Coax inputs for; (1) an XM PCR (w/digital out), (2) a minidisc deck, (3) a Zune dock, and possible output from my PC soundcard. How are the specs on this unit relative to other DACs?

I've looked around and seen some other nice looking DACs on our favorite auction site, but many only have 1, or 2 inputs. I really needs the 5 inputs offered on this unit. The price seems reasonable except when you add in the postage from China! But, it is what it is.

Just looking for any user feedback on this model from owners/users. It seems like a very versatile unit with lot's of connection options for future usage as well.

Comments? Other ideas?
 
Register to hide this ad
"NIKON FW series"? I doubt that there's anything from Nikon in that unit.

Still, it will probably work fine for your needs. Might even be a rather nice unit, but you'll probably need to try it before you can be sure as you'll likely not find any user feedback.
 
skriefal said:
"NIKON FW series"? I doubt that there's anything from Nikon in that unit.

Still, it will probably work fine for your needs. Might even be a rather nice unit, but you'll probably need to try it before you can be sure as you'll likely not find any user feedback.
Click to expand...
Yeah I hear ya. Chances of finding a user are slim, but that's what the web and forums like this are all about. You won't know unless you ask. The build quality does look impressive, I just don't know enough about DAC chip specs to make a fact-based, informed decision. I have been impressed with the build quality of similar devices I've bought from other vendors in the region - for instance, a small Class T amp that I absolutely love and sounds great. There are a lot of these DAC type devices coming out of China that I been looking at for awhile now. Like I said, they just don't have the connections options this one has. I just may have to pop for this one as a Christmas present to myself. :D
 
For $150.00 you can find a reciever either on eBay or Cragslist that offers built-in AC3 and Dolby Digital decoding via toslink or cable digital inputs. You could also go with a soundcard such as the internal or external Creative X-Fi series which will give you 5.1 analog outputs if you need them. Personally, I would not buy this piece because there are many options available that are known to be better quality ( this unit is unknown and who knows if it will be a superior sounding/performing unit? What reciever do you have? What PC do you have? What do you plan to accomplish? Answer us those questions and we'll see about the options that you may have.

Jimmy
 
Sorry, just re-read the original post. I would still go with a Creative solution. Get an X-fi with the external bay and now you have your digital inputs and outputs, 5.1 decoding, digital out to reciever, very decent built-in DAC's, and flexibility. New they can be expensive, but you can find them on ebay all the time. These Chinese DAC's that are flooding the market are a mixed bag. Some are very nice, but others are horribly cheap. What concerns me in this particular unit is the ANALOG FM radio section. Interference? I'm sure. The card reader? Added "stuff" to justify the price. What kind of USB circuit is on the unit? Assynchronous? What are the maximum bit rates the unit can handle? What kind of DAC is in the unit? It seems like it's nothing more than an external soundcard from China.

Jimmy
 
JimmyNeutron said:
Sorry, just re-read the original post. I would still go with a Creative solution. Get an X-fi with the external bay and now you have your digital inputs and outputs, 5.1 decoding, digital out to reciever, very decent built-in DAC's, and flexibility. New they can be expensive, but you can find them on ebay all the time. These Chinese DAC's that are flooding the market are a mixed bag. Some are very nice, but others are horribly cheap. What concerns me in this particular unit is the ANALOG FM radio section. Interference? I'm sure. The card reader? Added "stuff" to justify the price. What kind of USB circuit is on the unit? Assynchronous? What are the maximum bit rates the unit can handle? What kind of DAC is in the unit? It seems like it's nothing more than an external soundcard from China.

Jimmy
Click to expand...
I've already got many sound cards that provide some of the same functionality. I want a solution that not does not require the computer. Also my sound card does not have multiple Toslink or Coax inputs. I'm using a manual switcher with my current set up.

My current receiver is acting up and the digital volume control does no longer work without using the remote. Plus the output is rather low and I'd like to put into service one of my more powerful vintage stereo rcvrs. This device would act as more of a 'converter and control device' than anything else - while feeding my rcvr. Like I said, not planning on using the FM tuner or SD reader.
 
I think what you need is a Technics stand-alone SH-AC500 Dolby Digital/dts processor/pre-amp. Check ebay.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom