A huge number of audiophiles tech-savvy and traditionalists use computers as a primary music source and like all enthusiasts want the beyond-CD sound they’re capable of. Bel Canto makes it happen with three new Asynchronous USB Link Converters; the entry-level mLink, moving-on-up uLink, and top-of-the-line REFLink. These new USB Link Converters isolate the music signal and clocks from the harsh, noisy electrical environments of computers and music servers.
The new Bel Canto Link Converters take the USB output of your computer and deliver ultra-low jitter S/PDIF for your favorite DAC… most likely a Bel Canto 3.5VB Mk II, 2.5 or 1.5! All three USB Link Converters feature native MAC USB 2.0 compatibility, a custom Windows USB 2.0 driver, and operate at 16- or 24-bits at 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz on a proprietary 500MHz DSP Core.
It’s the Clocks
Asynchronous USB does one thing really, really well; decoupling the critical audio clock from the music data just as you find in the pro audio world. As a result the new USB Link Converters’ output noise and jitter is now entirely dependent on the quality of the clocks as the oscillators are now free-running and isolated from the incoming data stream. The Dual Low Phase-Noise Clocks in the mLink are 10-to-100 times lower noise than typical oscillators and make an astounding difference in the presentation!
It’s the Power Supply
The mLink takes its power from the USB connection and filters it with multiple dedicated supplies. Its compact dimensions make it very easy to place with SPDIF on a BNC output connector.
It’s the Sound!
The sonic impact of lowering noise to this degree is stunning; a highly organic analog-like presentation predominates. You’ll enjoy improved soundstaging and spatial positioning, fully-developed micro- and macro-dynamics that give music life, tighter, more controlled bass, a beguiling midrange and a sense of openness and air in the high frequencies that will put you in close contact with your music again and again!
Bel Canto recommends Audirvana Plus, Pure Music or Amarra with iTunes for bit-perfect playback or JRiver on the PC.
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