The LAiV Micro DDC, a digital-to-digital converter, promises a subtle yet significant improvement in audio quality. Unlike upsamplers, it doesn't alter the audio signal but expertly manages its transfer between various digital protocols (optical, AES, I2S, coaxial, USB), ultimately feeding a single, clean I2S output to your DAC. This seemingly simple function is key, mitigating noise and improving timing precision by isolating the source from the DAC. Its "many-in, one-out" design is particularly advantageous for systems with multiple digital sources but a single DAC, addressing a common challenge in high-end audio setups.This review explores the LAiV Micro DDC's performance, comparing it to other DDCs like the Singa SU6 and Topping U90. We'll delve into its effectiveness in reducing jitter and phase noise through reclocking, its compatibility with various high-resolution audio formats, and the impact of different input types and cabling. Ultimately, we'll assess whether the Micro DDC's $849 price tag is justified by the improvements it brings to the overall listening experience, considering its impact on both detail retrieval and listener fatigue.
Pros And Cons
- Improved sound quality even with a premium DAC
- Makes sound richer and smoother
- Better clocking than source device and possibly DAC
- Isolates noise
- Improves timing accuracy of signals
- Receives input from 10MHz master clock
- Galvanic isolation keeps electrical noise from output
- Works for various sample rates (CD quality to DSD512 and PCM 768kHz)
- Compact size can cause it to tip over with multiple cables
- Only I²S output (may be a dealbreaker for some)
- Compatibility challenges with I²S due to non-standardized protocol
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Understanding the LAiV Micro DDC
The LAiV Micro DDC is a digital-to-digital converter (DDC). Unlike upsamplers, it doesn't alter the audio signal itself. Instead, it converts between different digital protocols (optical, AES, I2S, coaxial, USB). This seemingly simple function holds a key to improving sound quality.
The core function is converting the digital signal format from input sources such as a streamer, computer or CD transport into a single I2S output that the DAC accepts. This process allows isolation of the source from the DAC, mitigating noise interference and improving timing.
Its compact size, while convenient, presents a minor challenge with cable management, potentially causing the device to tip over. However, the manufacturer is addressing this with an upcoming cable support solution.
The Micro DDC vs. Other DDCs
Unlike many DDCs that offer multiple outputs from a single USB input, the LAiV Micro DDC accepts various inputs (coaxial, AES, I2S, USB) but only outputs via I2S. This unique feature is beneficial for users with multiple sources needing a single output, whereas a many-out DDC is better for those using multiple DACs.
The reviewer compares it to his Singa SU6 DDC and Topping U90, both with a USB input and multiple outputs. The Micro DDC is designed to improve the signal quality when using multiple input sources to avoid noise interference. In other cases, the Topping U90 and Singa SU6 are better suited for handling multiple DACs.
The choice between the Micro DDC and other models depends on individual setup needs. For those with multiple digital sources and a single DAC, the Micro DDC's 'many-in, one-out' approach is a great advantage.
Reclocking and Noise Isolation: The Sound Improvement
The LAiV Micro DDC addresses jitter (random timing variations) and phase noise (consistent frequency drift) in digital signals by reclocking the signal. This process ensures precise timing and isolates the audio signal from noise interference from the source or cables.
This isolation prevents noise from disrupting the DAC’s circuits, resulting in a cleaner, smoother audio signal. The galvanic isolation of the I2S output further enhances noise reduction.
The Micro DDC supports a wide range of sample rates, including high-resolution audio formats (DSD 512 and PCM 768kHz), offering flexibility for various audio sources.
Sonic Impressions and Comparisons
The reviewer tested the Micro DDC with LAiV's Harmony DAC and the newer, smaller Micro DAC. Both setups benefited from the Micro DDC, exhibiting richer, smoother sound. The USB-only connection to the Harmony DAC showed more detail but also more fatigue, suggesting noise interference.
The Micro DDC reduced the fatigue and improved the listening experience. The improvement was subtle but noticeable, indicating a well-controlled noise reduction leading to a smoother, more relaxed listening. Adding a small amount of noise can make the audio seem crisper but potentially makes it more fatiguing.
The reviewer compares this subtle improvement to adding salt while sautéing onions—a small change that significantly elevates the overall taste of a dish.
I2S Configuration and Input Source Comparisons
The reviewer tested the Micro DDC with different input types (AES, coaxial, I2S, USB) and cables. The I2S configuration needed adjusting to align with different devices, highlighting a potential compatibility issue. Once corrected, the differences between input types were minimal, mostly attributed to cable differences.
Different connectors and cables have varying impedances and contact types that subtly influence sound. However, the Micro DDC maintained excellent output quality across all input types, showcasing its versatility. This flexibility makes it compatible with a wide range of digital sources.
Using different USB cables significantly impacted the sound; this reinforces the importance of high-quality cabling in the audio system, even if using a product like the Micro DDC for signal improvement.
Linear Power Supply Test and Conclusion
A test using a high-quality linear power supply in place of the included wall-wart significantly improved the sound, producing a smoother, more spacious soundstage with better instrument separation. While this improvement is noticeable, it is a considerable extra cost.
The reviewer concludes that the Micro DDC's $849 price tag is justified for those building a high-end system, particularly those with multiple digital sources and a single DAC. Its size, price, and sound quality make it a strong contender.
Alternatives like the Topping U90 and Singa SU6 are suitable for users with a single source and multiple DACs. The choice depends on the specific needs and setup configuration, but the Micro DDC brings superior results for multiple source configurations.