Hi everyone. I thought I would contribute my two cents worth to the discussion regarding SACD over iLink / HDMI. I'm a big fan of SACD, particularly mulit-channel classical recordings, and for the past several years have been listening to them using an Oppo BDP-95, usually via the multi-channel analog outputs. I've also done some listening using HDMI which, depending on the receiver or amplifier, allows for the transmission of a pure unconverted DSD signal.
Recently I acquired a Yamaha RX-Z9 receiver mainly for its prodigious power output (170 wpc) but also because I'm a fan of Yamaha's DSP technology. While the RX-Z9 lacks HDMI capability, this isn't a big deal for me, since I don't use it for video. However, what the RX-Z9 does have is two iLink jacks which, similar to HDMI, allows it to receive an unconverted DSD signal. Intrigued by this somewhat "antique" technology, I went searching for a compatible player, and recently acquired a Pioneer Elite DV-79AVi.
I have been blown away by the sound of SACD over the iLink connection between the Yamaha and Pioneer. I think it is better sounding than using the multi-channel analog outputs or, if my memory serves be well, even better than HDMI. I'm wondering if any other forum members have had experience using iLink technology for SACD playback and, if so, what have been their impressions.
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