XACT S1. The music server you've been waiting for

[Di-fi]

I’m intrigued by the potential interchangeability between S1 (or S1 EVO) units as both a switch and server (and now also a router as I learned recently). Could this open up new possibilities for reducing the number of boxes and cables, while still maintaining effective noise control and high sound quality? While this benefits consumers by simplifying setups, manufacturers focused on selling more devices and cables may not find it as advantageous.

Essentially, it would mean integrating the network and streaming sections into a single unit positioned between the modem and DAC. But…

From AS:

If server/player & switch running simultaneously is not possible. It seems my best option to improve sound, and assuming there will be an R1, it seems this is how I need to assemble my streaming section before the DAC:

Modem ➔
XACT R1 Router ➔ XACT PHANTOM LAN Cable ➔
XACT N1 Switch ➔ XACT PHANTOM LAN Cable ➔
XACT S1 Streamer ➔ XACT PHANTOM USB Cable ➔
DAC

On 9/12/2024 at 10:19 AM, Marcin_gps said:

The S1/s1 EVO can act as a router. We ported OpenWRT system.

Best regards,
Marcin

@Marcin_gps, you have to stop!

I’m blown away by this, and it’s hard for me to comprehend. First, I had to get my head around the idea of two interchangeable S1 units acting as a switch and a streamer. Now, the thought of a trio of S1 units functioning as a router, switch, and streamer is just unbelievable!

You mentioned it's not possible right now, but I can only imagine how impressive it will be when all three are combined into one unit, still reducing noise (Edit: at the same level ) and eliminating extra cables. I believe we'll reach that point in the coming years without crippling performance and I’m excited to see how you'll contribute to this journey.

 

[Vangelis]

I am interested in the S1 Evo. My hope is that the new OCXO Clock would negate the need to use my USB reclocker, thereby eliminating a chassis, which is very important to me. I’m also looking for clarity on what the US retail is for the EVO.

 

[Marcin_gps]

The MSRP for the S1 EVO is 16.000 EUR.

The list of dealers: https://xact.audio/buy/

Best regards,
Marcin

 

[Marcin_gps]

I'm excited to share a fantastic review of the XACT S1 EVO Music Server by Chris Connaker (The Computer Audiophile) at Audiophile Style!

Link to the review: https://audiophilestyle.com/ca/revi...xact-s1-evo-music-server-and-n1-switch-r1295/




Best regards,
Marcin

 

[Joscad]

Hi, I'd like to know what stage you're at regarding the compatibility of AIFF files with your server XACT S1 or also with PC servers built around J4 cards. I tested both machines and in neither case could I read my AIFF files , neither with the files on my hard disk, nor with the new CDs inserted in the drive and spontaneously recorded in AIFF.
The Jplay ios application does not recognise AIFF tracks.
If I do the same operation but save the file as a wav format, Jplay Ios recognises it but I can't retrieve the tags using the iTunes application.
Best regards

José

.

 

[Marcin_gps]

Hi, I'd like to know what stage you're at regarding the compatibility of AIFF files with your server XACT S1 or also with PC servers built around J4 cards. I tested both machines and in neither case could I read my AIFF files , neither with the files on my hard disk, nor with the new CDs inserted in the drive and spontaneously recorded in AIFF.
The Jplay ios application does not recognise AIFF tracks.
If I do the same operation but save the file as a wav format, Jplay Ios recognises it but I can't retrieve the tags using the iTunes application.
Best regards

José

.

Hi José,

Please upload a test track and we will check.

Best regards,
Marcin

 

[Joscad]

Hello Marcin, I don't understand what you're asking me because I can provide you with lots of extra files from CDs or other sources. The problem is the same on several devices all using the Jplay application with jplayios…
I've tried different software, including iTunes, but also others from different CD players, and the problem remains the same, so either there are specific settings that I don't understand on a PC, because on Macs I have no problem with my aiff files.
Best regards
José

 

[Marcin_gps]

Hello Marcin, I don't understand what you're asking me because I can provide you with lots of extra files from CDs or other sources. The problem is the same on several devices all using the Jplay application with jplayios…
I've tried different software, including iTunes, but also others from different CD players, and the problem remains the same, so either there are specific settings that I don't understand on a PC, because on Macs I have no problem with my aiff files.
Best regards
José

The app is not a problem, it will read the files as long as they are supported by a server. I can look into the issue, but I need a sample file.

Best regards,
Marcin

 

[Marcin_gps]

Hello everyone,

I'm excited to announce that Positive Feedback has just published a review of our XACT Phantom USB and LAN cables!

If you're interested in enhancing your audio experience or simply curious about what sets our cables apart, I encourage you to check it out.

Read the full review here: Positive Feedback Review

Best regards,
Marcin

 

[Elberoth]

The day it becomes Roon Ready, I will buy it.

The sound quality is phenomenal (a friend of mine who owns both the Xact and the latest Taiko Extreme thinks it sounds better than his Taiko), but I'm such a huge fan of Roon...

I have eat my words - I just got the XACT, despite the fact it is not Roon ready.

After switching back and forth with the Taiko Extreme in friend's system, I decided to forgo the Roon readiness, since the sound quality is so good. At this price it is a killer IMO.

The app is also much more polished than expected, which made switching from Roon app much less of an issue I thought.

 

[Marcin_gps]

XACT S1 Awarded by Pursuit Perfect System!

I’m proud to announce that the XACT S1 Music Server has been honored with a prestigious ‘Best of 2024 Stand Out Hi-FI Product’ award by Terry Ellis, independent Hi-Fi reviewer from Pursuit Perfect System.

Terry Ellis praised the S1 for its exceptional non-digital sound quality, calling it a true game-changer in the world of high-end audio servers.

 

[gleeds]

XACT S1 Awarded by Pursuit Perfect System!

I’m proud to announce that the XACT S1 Music Server has been honored with a prestigious ‘Best of 2024 Stand Out Hi-FI Product’ award by Terry Ellis, independent Hi-Fi reviewer from Pursuit Perfect System.

Terry Ellis praised the S1 for its exceptional non-digital sound quality, calling it a true game-changer in the world of high-end audio servers.

View attachment 141284

Congratulations Marcin!

 

[Elberoth]

Well deserved!

 

[Zappadaddy]

Anyone compared Wact with Pachanko server with diretta target? I love that sound, it reminds what people say about Xact server. I like to hear it and test it to decide about the outcome. Here Xact is in the action, the bass gutitar is just amazing, I can not get it this way out of my system, but Ithaca dac and Aries cerat speakers with sub is also adding huge impact on the sound, I am assuming.

 

[Rotatoubib]

I agree with Zappadaddy, it would be interesting to compare Pachanko and XACT S1 EVO

 

[PYP]

I agree with Zappadaddy, it would be interesting to compare Pachanko and XACT S1 EVO

perhaps on another thread? The OP of this thread is the manufacturer of the XACT...

 

[matthias]

perhaps on another thread? The OP of this thread is the manufacturer of the XACT...

Yes, however it seems to be a normal thread, not sponsered by the manufacturer.