RPi or USBridge or other SBC?

Hi,

I put this question on the Allo section of Computer Audiophile a couple of weeks ago. Haven’t had a reply so thought I’d try here.

“I’m thinking of buying a USBridge. My DAC is a Benchmark DAC3 HGC - it is not listed on the Allo compatability list (https://github.com/sparkysbc/sparky_linux_images/blob/master/DACS-List_USBridge.pdf). Will the USBridge work with the DAC3?”

Since then I’ve been researching further and wondering - given that the Benchmark DAC appears to have a well-designed USB input - whether I need something like USBridge or whether connecting to a Raspberry Pi USB output would be sufficient? Alternatively, use an SBC which does not have the USB abd Ethernet on the same BUS and also has 1Gb ethernet.

Grateful for any suggestions / comments.

Mike.

@ALLO_audio_boards

There are lots of DACs missing from that list. I am using a USBridge with the KEF LS50W (not on the list) and it works fine. I have also used it with the not on the list PS Audio DirectStream DAC and it worked fine. I am sure it will work just fine with a high quality DAC like the Benchmark.

That said the reason the USBridge exists is because the Raspberry Pi interface is a bit flawed in that the USB bus is on the same interface plane as the ethernet input and is thus considered noisy. Hence the need for a HAT like the USBridge.

I recently stopped using my USBridge in favor of a Sonore microRendu. Better SQ overall than the Allo. YMMV.

Mike

The USBridge was my first review for Darko Audio, chosen because I’d just bought one myself. See here. Previously I was using the USB output of an RPi.

The USBridge is a lot better, you will easily notice the difference with your HGC3. I’m currently using a Mytek Brooklyn+ with the USBridge, so same ballpark as your Benchmark. They work well together. I do need to experiment with better power for the USBridge soon I think, I’m using the stock one at the moment.

Phil

Phil,
I just finished reading your review. Have you tested any other network streamers? I’m curious about how USBridge stacks up against SOtM or Sonore gear.

Not yet. I’m hoping to get the new Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra soon, which looks interesting and is in a similar ballpark price wise. Well more than the USBridge anyway. And I did look at the GoldNote IS-1000 super-integrated amp that includes a Roon-enabled network card. I couldn’t split out the sound quality of that from the rest of the unit though.

Looks like Allo sells a SBC + Gigabit Ethernet bundle.

Just to say that I also went for the Stream Box S2 Ultra and have been using it now for a week or so.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Thanks, will do

Interesting …
I had thought about putting together a Roon endpoint with RPi to feed into a first generation Naim Unitiqute. But I fear it would compromise the sound. I looked at Allo Digital Signature but the price looks comparable to SGC bridge and Audiostore’s mite.

I use an Audiostore’s Prestige to feed my main system (Naim NDS), and I’m happy with the kit, although case build quality could be better.

Any views 12 months on from your original experience?

Stephen

I bought the Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra, it was noticeably better than the USBridge, even with the Allo powered from a 5V SBooster. So far it’s withstood the upgrade itch - indeed it’s never been embarrased against other standalone or internal streamers I’ve looked at (inc dCS Bridge, although that was very nice indeed)

I also have an Allo USBridge Sig in for review now (not listened to it yet). Not heard any of the Sonore products I’m afraid.

I use USB input most of the time, does the little Naim have that? From memory I don’t think so, in which case the Allo DigiOne or DigiOne Sig are ones to consider from Allo (I have a DigiOne, not done a detailed comparison but think it’s at the USBridge level).

On power, the Pro-ject doesn’t benefit from external power I’m told, the designer having addressed that himself (Pro-ject don’t offer an add-on supply, which tends to support the claim). With Allo I’ve tried iFi 5V, Allo Shanti, and SBooster. Basically the more you pay the better the sound. The iFi is a good first step though - so much for switching supplies sounding poor

Phil

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Thanks Phil that’s very helpful and interesting too.
Yes I think Naim requires Spdif, although from the Audiostore black box Ethernet is all that’s required.
I note your point about PSU; I’m just about to try LSU for the black box.
Look forward to your next Darko post.
Steve

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Update - Rpi bought.
Setup was frustrating because I tried an initial headless setup … eventually I resorted to using HDMI connection to my display with USB mouse and keyboard.
I’m now installing RoPieee, but the configuration is taking forever.