Cdx2 vs MacBook pro with Edirol FireWire interface

Posted by: MontyMusic on 22 August 2010

Wow! Is all I can say.
I've had my FireWire interface for quite some time and have just completed an A & B test.
I'm astonished how good the Mac sounds in relation to the cdx2!

There was slightly more treble 'fizz' with the back but all other frequencies were amazing. The bass was actually a little fuller and more controlled with the Mac.

I dread to think how good the nDac would sound.....

Might be time to offload the cdx2.

I didn't hear that much diff with Pure Music, in fact pm was annoying as there was gaps in-between tracks and it takes ages to start playing files after pressing play.

I did notice a positive diff with files ripped with EAC vs iTunes though.....

I'm confused with which way to go. So many variables, so little spare cash!

Posted on: 22 August 2010 by simcat

I've just part exchanged my CDX2 for NDAC. Should be arriving next week. I wanted to make the change and did it without a demo so hoping I will be pleasantly surprised in a few days time.

Posted on: 22 August 2010 by 0rangutan

What model Edirol interface?

Posted on: 22 August 2010 by MontyMusic

It's an FA-66.
I also use XLD rips not EAC as I mentioned.

Posted on: 23 August 2010 by Briz Vegas

quote:
Originally posted by simcat:
I've just part exchanged my CDX2 for NDAC. Should be arriving next week. I wanted to make the change and did it without a demo so hoping I will be pleasantly surprised in a few days time.

Hmmm As much as I am enjoying my ndac I still think that is risky. I did a lot of tweaking to get a sound that I think is outstanding but I can see from others posts that some prefer a different perspective on the music. I would suggest that you be prepared to try different software and interfaces etc to get a sound you like from the ndac. You may be happy right away of course, but I found that it could sound much more to my liking after investing a little more in the setup.