USB and so what ?

Hello everybody,

I read a couple of threads lately where USB is referred as a trouble maker in the audio processing chain. I think it is true to some extent, but I would like to take the crap out of it (with a decrapifier ?! no, idiot, thanks to a wonderful community : SBAF members). So here we go : does the USB connection matters and if yes, please explain what points are important for you. Example : I want to choose a new DAC and I see that this potential buddy does only USB 2.0, should I be sensitive to it ? Does the USB cable influence ? Should I investigate potential decrapifiers ?

Categories to be treated :
- Drivers : yes USB 2.0 is wider supported and supports a lower frequency (which is for me a pros because the higher the frequency and the more harmonics/powers may be introduced on the line via couplings). I remember reading that USB 2.0 is to be preferred but I do not know why.
- Cabling for the connection : does it matter ? I do think so because we are talking about "randomly generated code" using a square signal, so the harmonic content is high. I'll go for a shielded cable if possible.
- Power supply : I am convinced that a good DAC is a DAC using an external power supply because even with some big capacitors you cannot match the level of a good and stable power supply from the network. Maybe somebody wants to say some words on that.
- Jitter, Error correction, sampling frequency : unload what you got buddies, I know you have a lot to say.
- What would be another option than USB ? Do you see any good argument for it. Please explain why.

Note 1 : I had a look to all other threads and it seems that people have things to say but it comes in random situations, the idea is here to gather everything, I will update the post when I see good, stable statements.
Note 2 : I value arguments stating that there is a better option over USB, if it is justified, but please, stay focus on the USB solution, it is the goal of this thread to evaluate pros and cons.

 

I am not sure what is the interest of this thread. Have you gone through the USB Nervosa thread?
http://www.superbestaudiofriends.or...crapifiers-pro-interfaces-and-bears-oh-my.62/

It seems to cover most of what you address here, and if you have further queries that thread would likely be more appropriate...

 

Yes you are right, thank you, I already went through the thread, not completely honestly because it is quite big. My attempt was more on making a guide for important things, because I was not able to gather the core of what has been said within the thread you mentioned and also with others. Things are coming up and down and sometimes without justifications. I wanted to take some time to strengthen the whole thing.
If it is not necessary then just delete the thread, I wouldn't mind.