An introduction to computer audio
USB to SPDIF converters
In the past audio gear used SPDIF (coax or optical) or AES/EBU (most pro-gear) for transmitting digital audio. No support for USB.
PC’s do have USB but suppport for SPDIF is rare..
You need a DDC (digital to digital converter) to convert USB to SPDIF.
- Asynchronous USB
- 192Khz 24bit sample rate capable
- Ultra low jitter SPDIF output (<15ps rms)
- Direct connection to DAC without expensive cable (BNC)
- Fixed Frequency Clocks
- Windows, OSX, and Linux compatibility with Dual Driver capability
- Regenerative power supply which isolates the S/PDIF output stage
from USB power
- Fully differential ECL galvanically isolated transformer-less output
stage
- Upgradeable firmware
- Machined cast aluminum case for best shielding
- Complete immunity to audio vibration even with the loudest playback
- The included USB and SPDIF cables/connectors are tested for optimal
performance. No need to buy additional cables - they won't improve
your sound.
Behringer U-CONTROL
UCA202 $ 44.99 USD
- Ultra-flexible audio interface connects your instruments, mixer,
etc. with your computer for recording and playback
- High-resolution 48 kHz converters for high-end audio quality
- Works with your PC or Mac computer—no setup or drivers required.
Free audio recording and editing software downloadable at www.behringer.com
- Stereo Headphone output with dedicated Level control lets you monitor
both input and output
- Additional S/PDIF optical output for direct digital conversion
- Powered via USB—no external power supply needed
- High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure
long life
Measurements by NwAvGuy
- Input: High Speed USB 2.0 asynchronous connection - type B receptacle
- Supported operating systems: Apple Macintosh and Microsoft Windows (Alpha USB Windows driver)
- USB audio class 2 compliant
- Outputs: switch selectable, coaxial SPDIF - BNC, 75Ω or balanced AES type - XLR, 110Ω
- Supported sampling rates: 44.1kHz to 192kHz
- Supported word lengths: up to 24-bit
Blue Circle Audio $189.00
A PVC pipe filled with silicon and some unknown parts.
XMOS-U8 chip, support 32BIT/500MIPS
Async USB
TheSycon driver for Win
Outputs: I2S, Coaxial (RCA), optical, AES/EBU
Added 5/2015
The biggest news is probably that M2Tech decided not to use their proprietary drivers but to using the native mode USB audio drives of the operating system.
It is UAC1 and UAC2 compliant so will work out of the box with Win, OSX and Linux.
The receiver is by XMOS and the driver by Thesycon.
- Input 1 x USB A type male
- Output 1 x RCA or BNC female
- Input USB 2.0 Audio Format with aAsynchronous synchronazation
- Output S/PDIF Stereo Digital Audio Format
- Sampling Frequency:
44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4khZ, 192kHz
- Resolution 16 up to 24 bit
- Dimensions 10.2(d) x 2.2(h) x 2(w) cm
- Power Supply 5V DC from USB bus
- Weight 50gr approx.
Matrix Audio X-SPDIF 2 Femto Clock & Format Converter $439.95
Optical/Coaxial/AES |
PCM 16-24Bit/44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz
DSD64(DoP) |
IIS LVDS |
PCM 16-32Bit/44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz
DSD64/128/256 (DoP) DSD64/128/256/512 (Native)
NOTE: Please see the X-SPDIF 2 user manual for the IIS LVDS definition. |
System, Power & Accessories |
System support |
Windows7/8/8.1/10 system needs to install the supplied driver.
Mac OS X10.6.4 or above without installing the driver.
Most Android devices can be used via OTG cable.
The iOS devices can be used via Lightning to
USB Camera Kit. |
Power supply specs |
USB bus power supply: 5V/500mA
External power supply: DC 6~9V,≥800mA
Power supply port: outer diameter 5.5mm; inner diameter 2.1mm (+ for inner, - for outer) |
NOTE: |
Do not connect to the power supply with a voltage above 9V, or will cause damage.
It will auto disconnect USB bus supply after connected to the external power supply.
It needs to connect to the external power supply when using mobile phone or pad which USB port with low current output. |
Accessories |
USB Cable x1 |
Dimensions |
133x142x38mm (LxWxH, including protruding parts) |
Weight |
1.1kg |
Added 2/2015
S.M.S.L PO100 Pro € 79,00
USB (UAC1&2) converter to SPDIF over optical and coax and I2S.
Added 2023
32bit/384kHz USB DAC
DSD 256
XMOS U208
ES9018K2M
SPDIF out over Toslink and coax.
Measurements on ASR
Added 2021