This topic was deleted at the original author's request, but I wanted to ressurect it since I think it is a very good idea.
As most of you know, there are CD's out there that were mastered from original SQ or QS encoded tapes. Therefore, these CD's decode just like their LP counterparts when played through the proper decoder. Also, many stereo CD's sound great when fed through a matrix decoder.
I have found that decoding performance can be enhanced a great deal if the CD is played on a quality CD player or when a quality outboard DAC is employed. Specifically, DAC's that utilize upsampling offer the greatest benefit. I use an MSB Link DAC III that upsamples the CD to 24/96. When this DAC feeds into my QSD-1 or Tate, there are many improvments. The sonic quality and surround soundstage are greatly improved. Decoding artifacts are greatly reduced and separation is greatly enhanced.
As most of you know, there are CD's out there that were mastered from original SQ or QS encoded tapes. Therefore, these CD's decode just like their LP counterparts when played through the proper decoder. Also, many stereo CD's sound great when fed through a matrix decoder.
I have found that decoding performance can be enhanced a great deal if the CD is played on a quality CD player or when a quality outboard DAC is employed. Specifically, DAC's that utilize upsampling offer the greatest benefit. I use an MSB Link DAC III that upsamples the CD to 24/96. When this DAC feeds into my QSD-1 or Tate, there are many improvments. The sonic quality and surround soundstage are greatly improved. Decoding artifacts are greatly reduced and separation is greatly enhanced.
