SFP+DAC vs. Fiber cable on PRO USB module

[Kingsrule]

Anyone try a SFP+DAC cable between PRO USB module and MSB Dac?

I have. No conclusion yet but the sonics are different and worth checking out

BTW a SFP+DAC 2m cable is $16 on Amazon.....

 

[MarkusBarkus]

@Kingsrule did you stick with the 1310 nm wavelength for the new SFP+, per the OEM spec for SFP usage?

 

[Kingsrule]

Interesting, I don't see a wavelength spec for the SPF+DAC cable..

 

[crion]

There isn't one, DAC cables are twin-axial Cu based for shorter distances.
You are breaking the isolation properties that fiber gives you.

 

[Kingsrule]

There isn't one, DAC cables are twin-axial Cu based for shorter distances.
You are breaking the isolation properties that fiber gives you.

Exactly Didn't want to offend MB. But the advantage of the DAC cable is less noise (and heat) vs. SPF....and it sounds damn good

 

[MarkusBarkus]

...yes, sorry gents. DAC is not fiber. I was on autopilot: SFP+ = fiber from past few years of experimentation. Thanks for the generosity of your "realignment" of my comments. Nice fellas.

 

[Kingsrule]

Observations between the fiber vs. DAC cable between PRO USB and Select II Dac:

Fiber:
More etched imaging
A bit harder(brighter)
Better image depth/layering
Plays louder with same volume setting


DAC cable:
Richer images but less dimension
Smoother/more organic
Tube fans will love it

Bass is bigger with DAC but deeper with more impact with fiber

In a few words: Classical better with DAC, jazz better with fiber