Welcome, Guest. Please Login or Register
Decware Audio Forums
03/29/24 at 11:12:04 




Pages: 1 2 3 
Send Topic Print
You all MUST check this out. USB Regen. (Read 9660 times)
Core32
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 1858
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #100 - 11/14/15 at 01:45:47
 
Nope. I don't really need it to be happy with my setup and my hearing isn't that great at this point.
I even have trouble hearing a noticeable difference between decent tubes and much higher priced ones.
$3000 power cords or interconnects? Forget it.
That's one reason I would never say the regen has no positive merit.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
lLance
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 164
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #101 - 11/14/15 at 02:48:25
 
I have had the regen for a while. There was an immediate improvement. I especially noticed the bass get tighter on the ERRx radials. Yesterday I got a JS-2 Linear power supply from Uptone. I liked this unit because I could power my regen at 7 VDC and at the same time power my 1 watt MicroZOTL2 amp at 12 VDC. The ERRx have never sounded so good. The regen is for real and got better with a good power supply.
Back to top
 
 

ZMA, ZTpre, VPI Scout 1.1 & Soundsmith Zepher Cart, Janszen zA2.1 Speakers, PS Audio DSD, Berkeley Audio Alpha USB, PS Audio P10, Win 8 & J River app, Morrow Cables Triode Wire Labs #7 & Lessloss PC, voodoo AES
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #102 - 11/14/15 at 12:59:03
 
ILance, have your read much about varying the voltage to the regen?

If you ever played with it I'd be interested in your thoughts.

That seems like a great ps.  I am now running 3 lpsu - all Teradak.   A bit inefficient with all the cords and footprint.

Fair enough Core.  My hearing ain't what it used to be either.  I also don't invest in the exotic.  Although my wife has a different opinion Shocked
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
lLance
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 164
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #103 - 11/14/15 at 14:22:53
 
Palomino, I haven't had it long enough to get used to the new/better SQ quite yet, but I will read up on "varying voltage", sounds interesting.
Back to top
 
 

ZMA, ZTpre, VPI Scout 1.1 & Soundsmith Zepher Cart, Janszen zA2.1 Speakers, PS Audio DSD, Berkeley Audio Alpha USB, PS Audio P10, Win 8 & J River app, Morrow Cables Triode Wire Labs #7 & Lessloss PC, voodoo AES
  IP Logged
Dave1210
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 959
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #104 - 11/14/15 at 14:28:46
 
Taking a few quotes regarding measurements out of the broader hypothesis is somewhat misleading.  My sense from the broader discussion is that the mechanism is fairly complex and a single measurement (e.g. signal integrity of the USB signal) isn’t likely to support the theory.  

I also get the sense that they have tried using measurements and continue to explore new ways to measure and generate data to help support their hypothesis (and that some elements they will likely never be able to measure).

Not having methods that correlate with performance is making their development process longer and more subjective.  Afterall, hearing is still a measurement, it’s just a more subjective measure with greater standard deviation vs. a well designed technical method.  

The decision to outsource testing to an independent lab would have to be justified by an increase in sales.  I think it’s possible they could sell more Regens with supporting data, but it seems like they can’t even keep up with demand as it currently stands.  

In my system, with my ears, I hear a positive impact having the Regen in my signal chain.  YMMV.  

BTW...I have no affiliation whatsoever with Uptone, I just have a slightly different POV. 
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Dave1210
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 959
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #105 - 11/14/15 at 21:11:39
 
LR/Pal…I am also curious about the Curious.  I don't plan to use the dongle provided with the Regen.  It puts too much stress on the USB input and prevents me from using one of the I2S inputs on my DAC.  So, I may pick up the Curious Regen link too.

I am currently using a generic USB cable and the switching power supply for the Regen, so I have a lot of upside potential.  It sounds like they are working on a small linear power supply for the Regen, but it could be a while.  That said, I am in no rush.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #106 - 11/15/15 at 12:22:36
 
I decided to try the curious just to see what a "good" USB cable sounds like, a couple of posts on computer audiophile pand the John Darko review.   That and I won a little mad money at a casino in New Orleans.  Freak thing.  I never win.

I got a lift from the lpsu, the dongle and what power cord I use.  Eric now has a battery that I would like to try.  A December CDApS is brewing for some regen testing, UFO listening and copper beeswax impressions.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #107 - 11/17/15 at 02:20:55
 

Yeah, the battery for sure give me a little bit of a lift. It's somehow very slightly more involving than using the stock power.

I'm just having issues charging this battery now. Not sure why.

Pal, did you already order the Curious cable? Did you order the short, or the long? Because I think with your mad-money, I'd focus on the long...or both if you can swing it. I was close to ordering the long for myself as a birthday present...but I really need to keep on the straight and narrow with my spending.
Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #108 - 11/17/15 at 15:25:02
 
I ordered the short thinking it would be long enough to test it before of after the regen.  The consensus seems to have it somewhere in your chain.  I have a couple other mad money purchases so I didn't want to put that much into a cable.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #109 - 11/17/15 at 23:34:27
 

Understood-

I'm still having issues charging this battery. I got one good use out of it, and now it only lasts for about 10 seconds then dies. I think I got jipped.

If I can't get it going tonight (trying to charge yet again), then I'm going to E-mail them and hope they just sound out a replacement. I might be back to figuring out how to charge one of my 6v lantern batteries.
Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #110 - 11/18/15 at 18:23:01
 
From my own experimentation and what I have read of others experiences, the regen seems to be a power sensitive device.

LPSU better than stock SMPS

Better power cord better than stock power cord

Battery better than LPSU

I am now running my second best power cord (PS Audio AC5) on the regen LPSU and feel that along with my Synergistics Research cord going to the Mac and my DIY Belden going to the DAC to be the best combo.

I am going to keep playing with it to be sure.  I am also going to up the voltage output from the LPSU to 7 volts (6 currently) which I think is the optimal as far as I can tell from other posts on CA.

The next CDApS is currently scheduled for December 20 where I will hopefully gain support for my findings from younger ear'd members than myself.  

I will have the Curious link cable by then and last night I figured out that I can run it to the regen or after the regen given that the Chord DAC is so small.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
hifitubes
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 296
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #111 - 11/19/15 at 02:54:01
 
Quote:
The USB REGEN's secondary function is that it disconnects the computer's noisy 5 volt bus power coming down the USB cable, and provides clean 5VBUS on its output--for DACs that need it—via a second ultra low-noise regulator.


Yes, but it is not a panacea if the usb packet noise and 8kHz carrier are "infused" into the data or ground, which is why I have to use an Adnaco S3B fiber--over-usb - I can hear this noise in audible band at my speakers otherwise (i.e. REGEN > Computer direct using SMPS LPSU or battery!). Just FYI.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #112 - 11/19/15 at 12:26:40
 
I think that some of that may be handled by the regeneration phase of the device.  It's two step.  I thinks it's also why you want to use as short a cord or the connector after the regen.  I'll look around for a comment on this by the designer.

I know I read that some felt that the regen sounded better than the Corning optical cable.  Not sure if this is similar to what you have or not.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
beowulf
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 1447
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #113 - 11/19/15 at 19:53:20
 
In regards to the Curious Cable, it would make sense that it would have to be placed after the Regen (from Regen to DAC) correct?  I just don't see how a USB cable could effect the sound if used from the PC to the Regen because the Regen is doing something to the signal before sending it to the DAC.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
hifitubes
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 296
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #114 - 11/19/15 at 20:02:24
 
Beowulf - the problem is the the Uptone can still be fed nasty crud from the ground or even the data of the USB going direct to the PC. If you don't get those nasties, then what you say might hold true. Alex Crespi has stated as much and  I need to find his comments which were summarized on Head-Fi.

My system, I tested an external USB3 hub, and going direct to my USB ports, ended up with nasty packet noise on the speakers - this was with the REGEN on BATTERY or LPSU on a different circuit altogether in between.

DAC < REGEN > Computer

I use the Adnaco, so I don't have any other tools to test blocking the packet noise but I could test what it's riding on, but from what I gather it can becoming embedded in the data signal so cable tweaks may not work...maybe filters like Hydra-X, Schiit, etc help?

I do have an Audioquest Jitterbug coming, and a special USB cable to go from Adnaco to Regen that does not use the 5V, even though running on batteries I hear no audible nasties.

I'm curious if folks using DACs and computers can remove any filters they have and just see what you have as a starting point, how many folks hear that packet noise/8kHz carrier wave?
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #115 - 11/19/15 at 23:20:09
 
Sorry Hifi, just reread your post and saw you were getting the noise with the regen in place.

I don't get anything out of the ordinary without the regen.  Just better sound with it in.

I am using Audirvana which shuts down a lot of processes and I am using a SSD, external LPSU with my mac plus an internal power filter.  I would suspect that contributes to lower crud, but not carrier based noise.

On a separate note, I did tape over the 5v pin on the USB cord before the regen and felt it enhanced the sound.

Raven, I may want to hear the battery before the next CDApS if either of us are in each other's neighborhood.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
kana813
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 153
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #116 - 11/20/15 at 03:46:38
 
Where can I get some info on the battery PSU?
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
hifitubes
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 296
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #117 - 11/20/15 at 16:37:53
 
I have some laptop Anker batteries that work, but it's argued since they have switching regulators to change voltage they aren't the best. Still they work, and I don't hear anything adverse. You can use up to 12V.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #118 - 11/20/15 at 16:50:02
 
Last night, I removed the tape from the USB cord power pin and felt there was a difference in the size of the soundstage and the fullness of the instruments, so I put it back in.

I upped the voltage on the regen LPSU from 6 to 7 volts and did not perceive a difference.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
beowulf
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 1447
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #119 - 11/20/15 at 21:14:16
 
@ hifitubes, yes I could see that being a potential problem and will keep that in mind as I have not tried the Regen (or any USB cleanup device for that matter) as of yet.  Though, I'm considering the iFi iUSB 3.0 unit over the Regen as well.  because it deals with power cleanup on top of re-clocking, etc. and possibly their Gemini USB cable as I like the idea of the dual cable separation.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #120 - 11/21/15 at 00:08:04
 
When does this project find a end point?  You adaptors are speaking to a silent group of Decware faithful.  And, a very low checkbook balance!

On the advise gained here we have added a Jitterbug, a well regarded USB cable and should receive the Regen soon.  Now I gotta spring for a better power supply?

Just a thought, what if the Regen in the chain makes the music sound as good as it could possibly be?  Can I stop there or are you going to send someone over here and force me to sell an appendage to afford to keep up here?

Seriously, the Jitterbug made a big step up on this setup.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #121 - 11/21/15 at 01:30:47
 
When does it find an end point?  NEVER!  (Insert evil laughter here).

Seriously, I think the regen with a good power supply or battery is a very good stopping point.   I would love to try the jitterbug but Raven is letting me down.

I will know in a week if a good USB cord brings anything to the party.

After that, the icing on the cake is a good power cord feeding the regen lpsu and a better USB cord before the regen or possibly taping the power pin (1) on an existing USB cord going in to the regen.

Many are reporting good lift with just the regen and stock power supply.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #122 - 11/21/15 at 01:45:34
 
It would be good if one of you fine chaps would post a picture on how to tape the power pin on the USB cable.

There is a brand new six volt car battery in the garage.  Could that be used?

Thanks in advance
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #123 - 11/21/15 at 02:24:59
 
I am not in a position to post a picture but pull out your USB cord from the computer and orient so that the white plastic spacer is on the bottom and you can see the four pins appear across the top of the spacer.

Pin 1 is to the far right.  Take notice of the space from the far right of the plug casing to the second pin.  I would guess that it's around 1/4 ". Maybe a bit less.  Take a piece of masking tape and cut a strip about that wide and about 1/2" long.  Insert with sticky side down till hit hits the back of the housing.  Bend what sticks out beyond the end down and press to the outside of the housing.  Then take a toothpick or some small flat instrument and put it inside the housing and press the tape down till it sticks to the pin/plastic spacer.  It it touches the second pin it is too wide, so re-cut. Carefully insert the cord back into the computer USB port.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #124 - 11/21/15 at 19:26:50
 
WOO-HO, Now I'm playing with the big kids!
Received the Regen this morning in the mail.
Alex shipped my unit out two days early so that I could start to
enjoy it while snowed in this weekend.

Presently listening to a DSD download of Holly Cole's "Temptation".
Sounds better than ever!
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #125 - 11/22/15 at 12:41:52
 
That's great.  I have found Alex to be very responsive.

You may be the first one with a zen/regen combo.  Keep us informed.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #126 - 11/22/15 at 13:32:33
 
Mac mini (late 2012)
2.3 GHz core i7
16GB DDR3
internal 250GB SSD
external 250GB SSD
OS 10.11.1
Audirvana Plus 2.2.4
Jitterbug, Audioquest USB, UpTone Audio USB Regen Amber
Teac UD501
Decware DSR Silver interconnects
Decware SE34I Rachael
Decware DHC power cord
Decware ZSTYX speaker cables
Hawthorne Audio open baffle PSI 10”
Vintage ESS Heil’s crossed over with Mundorf Silver in oil caps
Well aged Decware DB10 (built by the master himself) powered by DirectServo plate amp
Various brass weights, vibration tweeks
AC power comes from a dedicated line with hospital grade recepticals
Well treated small room with diffusers, absorbers, bass traps

I listen in the very near field, sort of like headphones with a soundstage.
The Jitterbug/Regen combination have indeed made everything sound so
much better.

Dennis
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
mark58
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 5647
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #127 - 11/22/15 at 14:39:24
 
DPC, tell me more about your Heil Air motion converters and how you set them up.  I had ESS AMT 10b speakers in the past and remember loving them.  Do you not have to use the complicated ESS crossover?  You just use one cap? Can you attenuate the highs like on the original speakers? I'm not technically inclined so I don't know how it works.  Thanks,  Mark.
Back to top
 
 

"The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not moved with the concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, deceptions, and spoils;
The motions of his spirit are dull as night and his affections dark as Hell. Let no such man be trusted." William Shakespeare
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #128 - 11/22/15 at 15:09:31
 
Hey Mark,

My good friend Randy suggested the crossover setup.  That is, use only the cap inline to the hot lead from the amp.  In this case the Heil's are crossed at about 9k.

Full disclosure, I have no real understanding of how this all works.  Hence, we rely on folks that we trust to lead the "unwashed" to salvation.  I am truly grateful!

Dennis
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #129 - 11/22/15 at 17:06:11
 
Sorry thought you were a zen 2 watt man.  How do you like audirvana 2.2.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
mark58
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 5647
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #130 - 11/22/15 at 17:28:35
 
Dennis, would that be the Randy who makes those cool open baffle speakers that were at Decfest?  So with that set up you don't have the variable Heil control...correct?  I haven't heard the heils for almost 25 years...I have fond memories of them though.  Mark.
Back to top
 
 

"The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not moved with the concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, deceptions, and spoils;
The motions of his spirit are dull as night and his affections dark as Hell. Let no such man be trusted." William Shakespeare
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #131 - 11/22/15 at 17:48:04
 
Pal, you were not wrong, there have been a few Decware amps here.  For my needs the Rachel fits the best right now.  Have been a Decware fanboy for about thirteen years now.  On whim I read some white papers Steve wrote and gave him a call and he invited to drop by for a listen.  End of story!

IMO computer audio is the present and future for the majority or average music lovers.  Have a PC running Foobar 2000, sounds OK but the Mac mini with Audirvana is the best player for my money.  Some folks like anchovies on their pizza, some don't.  To each his own!
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
DPC
Ex Member



Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #132 - 11/22/15 at 17:57:48
 
Mark, That indeed is the same Randy!  Have known him for about as long as Steve.  A few years ago I was fortunate to have visited Randy's home and have not heard a better audio system.

You are correct, I do not have the variable control.  There are some people who feel that the original crossover was a drawback from what we know today.  Being technically challenged, I have to rely on help from those I have come to respect.

Dennis
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #133 - 12/04/15 at 14:20:56
 
Well, I got the curious regen link USB cable.  Took two weeks to arrive.  

I was going to wait to comment to see if Eric heard the same things I did, but this is so obvious he have to turn in his CDApS card and sell the ZMA if he couldn’t hear what this cable brings to the table.

It didn’t start out great though.  Nothing remarkable through the first night of listening.  But I ran music through it for 24 hours and then sat down and listened again last night.  

Pretty much everything that Rob (the designer) says, it will do.  Most notable is the dimensionality of the soundstage.  I thought I had a big soundstage going.  This increases it to a notable degree.  I did some A/B with the hard connector from the regen to the DAC and without rushing to complete the A/B; you could easily hear how the soundstage shrunk with the hard connector.

Smoother delivery, spot on tone, pretty much everything else he says.  Foot taping, front to back separation, all that.

One of my test tracks for anything new is Fleetwood Mac, Gold Dust Woman from the Rumors album.  During the first (not 2nd) chorus, I listen to see if I can pick out Christie McVee singing backup on the right side.  It’s a good detail/separation test.  Anyway, not only could I pick her out easily, but it gave the illusion of her being back several feet in the soundstage, and distinct from the rest of the track.

I tried the link in front of the regen and also after the regen and got the same effect, so I believe it is due to the curious cable.

I will try to get over to the Raven’s multimedia lair to see if it has the same effect with a Windows/ Directstream setup, but I do remember Alrainbow, of the PS Audio site citing good things in a post about pairing it with the DirectStream.

So I am on a pretty good run with the WE16g wire, the regen and LPSU and now the Curious cable.  Dare I try some new tubes??
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #134 - 12/04/15 at 14:49:27
 

Damn, you have my interest. I can't imagine the quality/accuracy getting any better than it is now!

Yeah, bring that little cable over and lets see what it does with the PSA DS  and battery powered USB Regen combo.

I've got some time off from the redhead this Saturday, and Sunday morning. Hit me up!

Also, my skeptic friend Mike can't make our Dec 20th CDApS meet.
Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #135 - 12/04/15 at 14:59:41
 
I forgot about the battery.  Yeah, that would be good to hear as well.

I should have some time this weekend.  A friend is in town so I have to figure out when I can get together with him, then I can let you know.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #136 - 12/04/15 at 21:56:33
 
New review out:

http://www.monoandstereo.com/2015/12/curious-usb-cable-review.html

Sounds like the reviewer did a lot of A/B like I did.

Tonight I am going to A/B it against my vinyl rig.  Granted, my vinyl rig is crap, but even with that, I still get a monster soundstage that typically beats my digital.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #137 - 12/06/15 at 12:22:03
 
There is such a positive boost to the soundstage presentation with the Curious regen link USB cable that I felt it rivaled what I get with vinyl.  My vinyl rig is very old (new cartridge), but I still delivers that huge multi-dimensional soundstage that I have never been able to match with digital.

The album I chose for the test was Joe Jackson’s Body and Soul – side 2.  This is a good semi-live recording that I believe was recorded in an old church in New York.  Joe Jackson has always taken care with the production of his albums and I have had this album since I was in my 20s.  Over the years I was always disappointed when I did comparisons to the digital version.  Instead of this huge performance, I got this small, flat, less dynamic sound and I pretty much gave up on the digital version.  It just didn’t take me where the vinyl version did emotionally.

I spent some time A/B-ing but having to adjust the volume as I switched.   At first, the vinyl version blew away the digital.  It still sounded thin, less full, less big.  Then I cranked the Audirvana volume all the way up, and found it closely matched the output from my turntable so that I could flip the source switch and have pretty well matched up volume between the two sources.

I was very pleasantly surprised that now the multi-dimensional soundstage was there, plus the dynamics and most important, the emotional involvement.   I might give a slight edge to the analog version.  Might.

I think the Uptone and Curious cable guys are on to something in computer based audio.  At least a far as USB goes.  

If I get some time today, I will do a few other comparisons where I have both the digital and vinyl version.  Most of my album buying ended in the 80s, so I don’t have a lot to compare.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
orangecrush
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 285
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #138 - 12/06/15 at 19:52:46
 
Palomino, thanks for your impressions on the curious cable. I'm been enamoured with my Regen for a few months now.  Would you say the improvement with the curious cable was more noticeable then when you first added the Regen?

I am so close to ordering one, but our CAD is so low right now, it will end costing me so much more that I still sitting on the fence.
Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #139 - 12/06/15 at 20:54:53
 
Not sure I can say for sure.  I think the regen added more but I'd have to go back and test to be sure.  The Curious adds more than the LPSU.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #140 - 12/07/15 at 19:20:31
 

Now I'm really starting to wonder if the curious cable before *and* after might help even further, or if we're hitting the "diminishing returns".

I don't want to be like those guys with Jitterbug, cable, Jitterbug, regen, cable jitterbug setups LOL

Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #141 - 12/07/15 at 20:29:04
 
Yeah, might be hitting the point of diminishing returns.  John Darko said it brought some improvement, but it didn't sound like much.

They had me at regen.  But I am glad I went a little further.

Sorry I didn't get by this weekend.  Until my wife finds a dress to wear to this wedding, my life is on hold:).

Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #142 - 12/10/15 at 17:10:13
 
I don't know if anybody cares to read about my regen adventures anymore but....

I had a wonderful listening experience last night in the audio cocoon.  I think the Curious cable has opened up some more and I fiddled with my Audirvana settings a little.

Rich, sophisticated, enveloping and engaging sound like I have never heard.  I'm not sure I can explain this well, but the echoes in the hall in the recording being heard in the same location in my room.  Like an echo off the high left rear corner of the hall being heard in the same location in my room.  You are in the soundstage.

I did notice, that when I shut down my digital rig a couple days ago, that it took some time for the magic to reappear. I don't know how long it took, but it was back in spades last night.

Anyway, good fun and good return on a modest investment.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #143 - 12/10/15 at 18:09:00
 

Oddly enough, I had a great listening session last night as well. Was waiting for the new girlfriend to come over, and I popped on Van Halen's first album, and it sounded simply amazing. Just a standard CD rip, nothing special, and I heard it like never before!

Maybe yesterday was a great night in the universe...less solar radiation hitting the ionosphere or something. LOL
Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Lon
Seasoned Member
****


"Love without
guts is
worthless!"
Philip K. Dick

Posts: 23311
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #144 - 12/10/15 at 18:21:01
 
Great listening night last night for me as well. Lucy was out on a "sister's night" (boy were my ears burning) and I spun lp after lp and was just deep in a zone of musical bliss.
Back to top
 
 

HR-1,ZTPRE,ZBIT,ZROCK2,SEWE300B,CSP3-25mod,Taboo MkIV;Rega RP3 all GrooveTracer mods;PSAudio:PST+DSD,P15,NPC,PowerBases,AC-12 pwr cbls,Reference spkrcbls;Mapleshade SamsonV3;VooDoo:Cremona+Amati interconnects, IsoPods; headphones:Sennheiser HD800S,ZMF Ori,Oppo PM1
  IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #145 - 12/10/15 at 18:41:53
 
It's a new moon.  Not sure what that means, but it's the only event I could find on the web to explain it.
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
Lon
Seasoned Member
****


"Love without
guts is
worthless!"
Philip K. Dick

Posts: 23311
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #146 - 12/10/15 at 18:48:45
 
Or . . . we have great systems and we're letting ourselves enjoy them.
Back to top
 
 

HR-1,ZTPRE,ZBIT,ZROCK2,SEWE300B,CSP3-25mod,Taboo MkIV;Rega RP3 all GrooveTracer mods;PSAudio:PST+DSD,P15,NPC,PowerBases,AC-12 pwr cbls,Reference spkrcbls;Mapleshade SamsonV3;VooDoo:Cremona+Amati interconnects, IsoPods; headphones:Sennheiser HD800S,ZMF Ori,Oppo PM1
  IP Logged
Lonely Raven
Seasoned Member
****


Jack of all Trades,
Master of None

Posts: 3567
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #147 - 12/10/15 at 21:14:29
 
Is it Environmental...or just Mental. LOL

Back to top
 
 
WWW Lonely Raven   IP Logged
Palomino
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 2474
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #148 - 12/17/15 at 21:38:05
 
There are some competing products coming out:

http://intona.eu/en/products

I researched one like this before buying the regen.  That one did not support high speed USB (so no hi def material).  This one seems to plug that hole.  More expensive than the regen ($258).
Back to top
 
 

i7 Mac Mini with LPSU/SSD running Audirvana 3.5, Uptone Audio Regen on LPSU, Mytek Brooklyn DAC+, Ven Haus DIY Silver ICs, 25th Ann. Zen, PS Audio P5 Power Supply, PS Audio Power Cords, GR Research Speaker Wire, DIY Big Betsy and Crystal 10 Open Baffle Speakers
  IP Logged
kana813
Seasoned Member
****




Posts: 153
Re: You all MUST check this out. USB Regen.
Reply #149 - 12/19/15 at 19:38:40
 
There's also the SOtM tX-USBhub:

http://www.sotm.sonore.us/SOtM3.html#1

Back to top
 
 
  IP Logged
Pages: 1 2 3 
Send Topic Print