Squeezebox Touch-tips, tricks & tweaks

[steveinaz]

Very cool!

[mdaudioguy]

Quite an interesting and lively discussion going on in the Squeezebox forum about Touch Toolbox 3.0 - even another cable debate beginning at post #313 (Yes, it's a long thread...) This time it's ethernet cables!! :smile::wink:

http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=91322

[Syndil]

Wow. There is a whole lot of bunk in that thread. EMI/RF interference in/out of an ethernet cable? I hope you can hear me rolling my eyes. Ethernet cables are made of twisted pairs (the "TP" in UTP or STP) for a reason, and error correction is applied at the receiving in regardless of what happens to the bits as they travel along the cable. Bits IS bits. I guess some people are just not happy unless they can burn a pile of money in offering to the audio gods.

[heiney9]

Steve going through some old threads I came across this post I made shortly after adding a linear PS to my Squeezebox II. The smae results when adding the Welborne to the Touch. The Bolder Modded ELPAC is essentially the same as the CI Audo PS and Welborne, etc.




As a side note I replaced the very cheap stock switching power supply on the Squeezebox WiFi server I use with the Adcom dac, with a Bolder Modded ELPAC power supply. The ELPAC is a brick type linear power supply made for computers. Bolder adds hexFred rectifiers, Panasonic and Blackgate caps, a much beefier cable with the proper female plug as well as a beefier power cable. They also disable the 12V section of the PS. All I can say is I'm floored at the difference it makes. Simply floored!!!!!

I'll borrow a phrase from Madmax.............EVERYTHING MATTERS!!!! The difference is very apparent. I've spent a lot of time listening to 3 different very familiar songs over and over and over plugging/unplugging the stock switching PS vs. the modded ELPAC. I am simply blown away. This hobby never, ever, ceases to amaze me.

I listened for 4 things specifically...........1) instrument and vocal placement both depth and across the front plane of the sound stage . 2) extension of bass notes and decay of bass notes. 3) decay especially of cymbals and sympathetic vibration of stringed instruments. 4) for anything prominent that wasn't as apparent with one or the other power supply.

The ELPAC won all these specific tests with the 3 familiar songs everytime and without a doubt. Biggest thing I noticed was even more separation of instruments and vocal, the decay on the cymbals was to die for and bass didn't seem like it hit a wall suddenly, it extended a tad deeper but more naturally rolled off (decay). I noticed a tad better clarity which I think has to do with a slightly less digital, edgy sound. Much less congestion with the ELPAC.

H9

[tonyb]

I know at least you and I Brock, are in the power supply matters crowd. Hopefully Steve will be soon too. I sincerly hope others who think just because these little boxes like the Touch are digital and won't benefit from a better power supply, or analog output stage like in a seperate dac, change their mind and at least give it a try.

[nspindel]

No doubt. I have the Welborne, and actually picked up a used Bolder-modded Elpac just to see if I can notice any differences. Haven't had a chance to do any of that testing yet, it's way down on the list, but couldn't pass up a good deal on the Elpac.

[brgman]

Might want to be careful ordering a Welborne.I have one on order and cannot get any responses from them.
After several tries i finally went back to Paypal to file a case before it got too late.

[heiney9]

Welborne does have pretty poor communication, but the products are top notch and I don't believe they are out to take anyone's money. All of us (5) had the same issue with Welborne not answering emails very quickly and we all got our products in perfect working condition.

CI Audio is an alternative if people are uncomfortable with Welborne's slow approach, but they are more expensive and the power supply's are pretty much identical.

H9

[heiney9]

Might want to be careful ordering a Welborne.I have one on order and cannot get any responses from them.
After several tries i finally went back to Paypal to file a case before it got too late.

So you are approaching 30 days with not a single response or product? How many times and when did you contact them?

H9

[steveinaz]

Good deal, thanks for the impressions Brock. I've done some pretty extensive listening now, and I'm confident that the Touch's performance justifies this upgrade, so the Channel Island PS is on the way.

[brgman]

So you are approaching 30 days with not a single response or product? How many times and when did you contact them?

H9
Yep
I have sent several emails over this time without ANY response.
i also am leary just because a company that rebuilds some bigass jacks for the still mill i work with has 2 of my jacks and their phone is now disconnected.
That put me over the top.We all know how this economy is and i guess never having dealt with such a non-communicating outfit had me worried.
hell i was jonesin to get this thing.i read many very good reviews.
wanna send me yours?:wink:

[nspindel]

Funny, because I just ordered a dc cable replacement from them, and ended up in an email conversation with them. I got 8 emails from them between Nov. 18 and Nov. 23., they were great to deal with (although I haven't received the cable yet). You sure you're using the right email address? I was emailing to sales1@welbornelabs.com, and was corresponding with a woman named Dana.

[brgman]

That's the one i used.
I guess the just don't like me!
Damn!

[steveinaz]

Channel separation (at least what I've heard) is off the charts with the Touch--very nice; so is articulation of multiple voices. The minor thing I'm noticing is a little less weight to things like low bass, and piano key strikes--which I "caught" while listening to a couple tracks on "The Nightfly" a few days ago. Very subtle, but I have noticed it.

[PrazVT]

I'm still not clear - from an electrical engineering perspective - how the Touch's SQ is improved by adding a linear PS? Ex. there's a discussion over at Slim Devices here (http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=81682&highlight=touch+power+supply) against the idea. The Touch has an internal ps and regulators inside it already.

That's the argument against - is there one for? $300 - $400 is alot to take on faith alone, I guess is my point. To me, "most things matter" - as I've tried ICs / speaker cables / power cables and appreciate the audible improvements.

[heiney9]

Yep
I have sent several emails over this time without ANY response.
i also am leary just because a company that rebuilds some bigass jacks for the still mill i work with has 2 of my jacks and their phone is now disconnected.
That put me over the top.We all know how this economy is and i guess never having dealt with such a non-communicating outfit had me worried.
hell i was jonesin to get this thing.i read many very good reviews.
wanna send me yours?:wink:

I understand, hopefully it will get worked out. I didn't like that they never notified me when they were shipping and no tracking number. If you initiate a claim it might light a fire under them. Be sure to check your junk mail folder just in case they sent you something about a delay. As I understand these are built to order so if they had a parts shortage or whatever maybe that's holding it up.

I'll keep mine, but thanks for asking :cheesygrin:

H9

[heiney9]

I'm still not clear - from an electrical engineering perspective - how the Touch's SQ is improved by adding a linear PS? Ex. there's a discussion over at Slim Devices here (http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=81682&highlight=touch+power+supply) against the idea. The Touch has an internal ps and regulators inside it already.

That's the argument against - is there one for? $300 - $400 is alot to take on faith alone, I guess is my point. To me, "most things matter" - as I've tried ICs / speaker cables / power cables and appreciate the audible improvements.

Maybe Rich will repost his scope of the sine wave with the switching supply vs. the linear supply. It went from jagged to smooth. I was floored at the difference in sound. The power supply is the most important part of any audio design, and improvements are heard. The switching supply that comes with it is a weak link. I paid $220 for the Welborne so I'm not sure where you are getting the $300-400 quote from. It comes in a kit form for $160, IIRC.

H9

[heiney9]

That's the argument against - is there one for? $300 - $400 is alot to take on faith alone, I guess is my point. To me, "most things matter" - as I've tried ICs / speaker cables / power cables and appreciate the audible improvements.


As a side note I replaced the very cheap stock switching power supply on the Squeezebox WiFi server I use with the Adcom dac, with a Bolder Modded ELPAC power supply. The ELPAC is a brick type linear power supply made for computers. Bolder adds hexFred rectifiers, Panasonic and Blackgate caps, a much beefier cable with the proper female plug as well as a beefier power cable. They also disable the 12V section of the PS. All I can say is I'm floored at the difference it makes. Simply floored!!!!!

I'll borrow a phrase from Madmax.............EVERYTHING MATTERS!!!! The difference is very apparent. I've spent a lot of time listening to 3 different very familiar songs over and over and over plugging/unplugging the stock switching PS vs. the modded ELPAC. I am simply blown away. This hobby never, ever, ceases to amaze me.

I listened for 4 things specifically...........1) instrument and vocal placement both depth and across the front plane of the sound stage . 2) extension of bass notes and decay of bass notes. 3) decay especially of cymbals and sympathetic vibration of stringed instruments. 4) for anything prominent that wasn't as apparent with one or the other power supply.

The ELPAC won all these specific tests with the 3 familiar songs everytime and without a doubt. Biggest thing I noticed was even more separation of instruments and vocal, the decay on the cymbals was to die for and bass didn't seem like it hit a wall suddenly, it extended a tad deeper but more naturally rolled off (decay). I noticed a tad better clarity which I think has to do with a slightly less digital, edgy sound. Much less congestion with the ELPAC.

H9 .

There's the for

H9

[PrazVT]

Maybe Rich will repost his scope of the sine wave with the switching supply vs. the linear supply. It went from jagged to smooth. I was floored at the difference in sound. The power supply is the most important part of any audio design, and improvements are heard. The switching supply that comes with it is a weak link. I paid $220 for the Welborne so I'm not sure where you are getting the $300-400 quote from. It comes in a kit form for $160, IIRC.

H9

Ok sorry - I guess it's been a while since I've looked into this. I know the CI Audio VDC is $259 - thoughts on that one?

Thanks,

Praz

[FTGV]

I'm still not clear - from an electrical engineering perspective - how the Touch's SQ is improved by adding a linear PS? Ex. there's a discussion over at Slim Devices here (http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=81682&highlight=touch+power+supply) against the idea. The Touch has an internal ps and regulators inside it already.

High frequency harmonics ,and switching noise from a poorly designed switch mode supply can find their way into the audio signal.Most users here have reported improvements using the digital output but I would expect even greater improvements when utilizing the analog outputs when fed with a good linear supply.Modifying the internal regulators IMO would have even more potential for improvements but thats not a task easily undertaken.

[steveinaz]

Received my duet controller last night for my Touch--now that's what I'm talking about! Very nice.

[steveinaz]

Reported.

[nspindel]

Received my duet controller last night for my Touch--now that's what I'm talking about! Very nice.

I really did not like that controller, the wheel is such a pain in the ass, tbh, and I found it was very slow as well. If it were me, I would have spent that money on an old ipod touch just to run ipeng on. YMMV, but I prefer iPeng over the Logitech controller any day.

[steveinaz]

I can see how large thumbs would struggle, but so far it's working well for me. The wheel is a little hokey--and takes some dexderity, but I'm getting there.

[dragon1952]

I bought a Duet controller for my Touch's also (or is it Touchi). I can't imagine being without it.

[nspindel]

Have you tried an app yet? Once I tried an app on the phone with a touch screen, I couldn't stand that remote.

Not to mention, again, the app let's you play remotely. I have a Squeezebox in my car!

[cubdog]

I bought an Android tablet just to use as my Touch remote. It hasn't arrived yet but I'll let you all know how it works out.

cubdog

[polkatese]

I bought an Android tablet just to use as my Touch remote. It hasn't arrived yet but I'll let you all know how it works out.

cubdog

same functionality like SqueezePad?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFzhW3qozlI&feature=related

[mdaudioguy]

Have you tried an app yet? Once I tried an app on the phone with a touch screen, I couldn't stand that remote.

Not to mention, again, the app let's you play remotely. I have a Squeezebox in my car!+1K! Before I had apps, I thought that remote was cool... Now? Not so much.

[mdaudioguy]

I bought an Android tablet just to use as my Touch remote. It hasn't arrived yet but I'll let you all know how it works out.

cubdog
Which one did you get? I was thinking the same thing when those $99 HP Touchpads were selling out, but I was too slow to get one.

[PrazVT]

My parents' have squeeze commander on their Motorola Xoom tablet and I have it on my Galaxy S2 - works well. Very similar to iPeng on the iPhone / iPad minus the player functionality. Have to use Squeezeplayer app for that.

[nspindel]

Sweet video. Home boy has the Transporter! NICE!!!

[steveinaz]

Do you have to activate a cell phone to use it as a remote? (sorry I'm cell phone challenged)

[heiney9]

Do you have to activate a cell phone to use it as a remote? (sorry I'm cell phone challenged)

I am afraid so, how would you DL the app to run it?

H9

[steveinaz]

see my disclaimer...LOL

[nspindel]

I am afraid so, how would you DL the app to run it?

H9

Nah, Brock you can use wifi. You can always use an unactivated iPhone as an overpriced iPod Touch. I've seen posts from folks who have gone out and bought an older generation iPod Touch on the cheap for the single purpose of running a Squeezebox app on it.

[heiney9]

Nah, Brock you can use wifi. You can always use an unactivated iPhone as an overpriced iPod Touch. I've seen posts from folks who have gone out and bought an older generation iPod Touch on the cheap for the single purpose of running a Squeezebox app on it.

I guess I hadn't thought of that. I suppose that would apply to an Android based phone as well.

H9

[cubdog]

Which one did you get? I was thinking the same thing when those $99 HP Touchpads were selling out, but I was too slow to get one.
I'm getting an Arnova 7 G2 which is an Andriod 2.3. I'll download the SqueezeCommander app as it seems to get great reviews. As to the exact functions of the SqueezeCommander app I'll have to wait and see. Most users seem to prefer it to the Duet remote.

cubdog

[nspindel]

Once you get used to using a touch screen app, you will absolutely hate the thumb wheel on the duet controller. Mark my words.

[steveinaz]

I'm sure of that. The wheel is a pain in the butt, no doubt.

[Syndil]

Once you get used to using a touch screen app, you will absolutely hate the thumb wheel on the duet controller. Mark my words.

Doubt it. I hate touchscreens. I'll take tactile controls over a control that I have to look at to use with zero tactile feedback any day. The only reason I own a Touchpad was because of the fire sale pricing, and the first accessory I bought for it was the bluetooth keyboard. Touchscreens are a fad.

[nspindel]

Impossible to use the duet remote without looking at the device. It's all screen/menu driven, but controlled with a thumbwheel and a center button.

[polkatese]

So the boxes came last night, and I've been playing with the format. First impression is very good. CI power supply looks is impressively clean and worth its place in the display. I configured iPad, iPhone, and Harmony One. All configured painlessly. Download the Media Server and scanned my Macbook Pro for all audio (it picked up all formats flawlessly). I ripped one of my Bob James CD (Playin' Hooky) in AIFF. Trying to objectively assess it within the next few hours to hear if I can draw any meaningful conclusion. So far so good. Btw, it goes to the Pre/Pro on SDIF Coax using AQ mid-grade cable, thought about upgrading the IEC but I think I might overdone it if I do.

Here is an interesting part: Playin' Hookie album is a HDCD, so I when I ripped it using iTunes AIFF format, it brought over in HDCD version. How do I know? because the Marantz decoding it in HDCD (it lights up during playback).

How cool is that?

[nspindel]

That's the one i used.
I guess the just don't like me!
Damn!

Actually, no, I think you're right. They were very responsive to me right up until the point where I paid them. But that was going on three weeks ago, and I still haven't received my eff'ing wire from Welborne, and they have not responded to my inquiries asking where it is. Ridiculous.

[SCompRacer]

But that was going on three weeks ago, and I still haven't received my eff'ing wire from Welborne, and they have not responded to my inquiries asking where it is.

I guess their service hasn't changed much since some of the RAS members got our Welborne Labs power supplies. And that was a year and some months ago. They sent my kit and the wire and/or sleeving followed a week or so later.

[SCompRacer]

So the boxes came last night, and I've been playing with the format. First impression is very good. CI power supply looks is impressively clean and worth its place in the display.

Kewl! Dusty does a nice job. I've owned some of his gear previously.

I prefer my Droid over the Controller. When I didn't have a Droid, I loved that Controller.

[polkatese]

Thanks Rich. I guess over the decade of being here I am used to do business with outstanding fellows like Frank Dai, Gary Dodd, Joe Abrams, et. al., and dealing with Dusty, I am placing him in the same category as these select few Gents.

By the way, I am giddy like a little boy over this little gem of display options on this Touch: ANALOG display of a pair of VU Meter! just wow. :smile:


sorry for the lousy pics quality..

[heiney9]

Not to take anything away from Dusty and CIA, but the Welborne is well built too. They are just very slow and unresponsive, which I realize leads to suspicion. In the future I will probably recommend CIA for your power supply needs. IIRC, they didn't offer anything for the Touch when all of us in the RAS bought ours. Plus the Welborne was 20% off. I hope Welborne comes through for you guys.

H9

[nspindel]

WTF is the RAS?

[heiney9]

WTF is the RAS?

Rockford Audio Society or Regional Audio Society :razz:

myself
Ricardo
Doug (dkg999)
Rich (SCompracer)
my brother (Blakeh)

all bought Touch's and Welborne supplies at the same time, when Ricardo found a 30% off on-line coupon.

A bunch of us local polkies who hang out on occassion.

H9

[PrazVT]

Nah, Brock you can use wifi. You can always use an unactivated iPhone as an overpriced iPod Touch. I've seen posts from folks who have gone out and bought an older generation iPod Touch on the cheap for the single purpose of running a Squeezebox app on it.

Yup you don't need an activated phone or a phone w/ a sim card in it or anything. hell my old iPhone 3GS' Navigon GPS app still works without any actual service :) But yah ..any unactivated Android phone / tablet or Iphone / iPod Touch over wifi will do the trick. The squeezebox controller was made obsolete the day iPeng and Squeezecommander came out.

[PrazVT]

Mmm...I need to get the PSU upgrade. Something else always trumps it on my list of 'to buys'.

Like the Asus Transformer Prime tablet right now lol.

[nspindel]

Rockford Audio Society or Regional Audio Society :razz:

myself
Ricardo
Doug (dkg999)
Rich (SCompracer)
my brother (Blakeh)

all bought Touch's and Welborne supplies at the same time, when Ricardo found a 30% off on-line coupon.

A bunch of us local polkies who hang out on occassion.

H9

I like it!

[heiney9]

A couple others include

daboyz (Dave)
comfortablycurt - he's been MIA for awhile
LessIsNeverMore
Lowell_M (Aaron I)
ALL212 (Aaron II)
and out newest is Agfrost (Jay)

http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/group.php?groupid=10


It is a fun time for sure.

[EndersShadow]

H9 where do you guys typically meet in IL? I am over in Indy which isnt too far from you depending....

I might be interested next time you guys meet up on showing up....

[Drenis]

H9 where do you guys typically meet in IL? I am over in Indy which isnt too far from you depending....

I might be interested next time you guys meet up on showing up....

Pfft... like you really want to hang out with that crabby ol man h9? :p

[steveinaz]

Rad
Ass
System

[tonyb]

H9 where do you guys typically meet in IL?

It's usually somewhere that Christ lost a shoe or in some secret nuclear bunker. Rumer has it even that they have a secret handshake that involves grabbing each others nuts while reciting words from the Book of the Dead.

[brgman]

Well the PSU drama continues with Welborne.
After no response and i filed with paypal teh time was about up so i got a CI.Now last night Welborne sends a messgae that they contacted me and told me the housings were on backorder but back in now and they will ship Friday or Monday.
I never rec'd jack from them so they are full of sh^t but it looks like next week i'm going to have both a CI AND a Welborne.
Is one preferred or is it just opinion?
A new one will be for sale here soon.

[heiney9]

They are the same build and design AFAIKT.

H9

[polkatese]

it looks like next week i'm going to have both a CI AND a Welborne.
Is one preferred or is it just opinion?
A new one will be for sale here soon.

Shootout time? ABX?

[SCompRacer]

H9 where do you guys typically meet in IL? I am over in Indy which isnt too far from you depending....

I might be interested next time you guys meet up on showing up....

Maybe sometime after the holidays. Sometime in January I'll invite the guys down to demo my finally completed Lenco turntable project and modded DAC. We don't do gear meets as much due to everyone being settled in place with what they have. Now we occasionally meet just to listen to music. We have met at just about every members place.

Tony, you forgot about the live sacrifices. Oh, we don't sacrifice new members anymore. That made Jay happy.:cheesygrin:

[dragon1952]

Well the PSU drama continues with Welborne.
After no response and i filed with paypal teh time was about up so i got a CI.Now last night Welborne sends a messgae that they contacted me and told me the housings were on backorder but back in now and they will ship Friday or Monday.
I never rec'd jack from them so they are full of sh^t but it looks like next week i'm going to have both a CI AND a Welborne.
Is one preferred or is it just opinion?
A new one will be for sale here soon.

I might be willing to take one of them off your hands.

[brgman]

I might be willing to take one of them off your hands.

I'll keep you in mind.Thanks

[dragon1952]

Ooops....never mind....just got a good deal for one on Ebay.

[polkatese]

which one did you get?

[polkatese]

http://www.pcworld.com/article/245761/refurbished_hp_touchpad_firesale_this_sunday_repor t_says.html


Refurbished HP TouchPad Firesale This Sunday, Report Says
By Ian Paul, PCWorld Dec 8, 2011 5:54 AM

Just when we thought the $99 Hewlett-Packard TouchPad was gone forever, the tablet that refuses to die is coming back for one last sale, according to online reports. A limited quantity of refurbished TouchPads will reportedly go on sale at HP's eBay Store starting at 6 p.m. Central Time (7 p.m. Eastern) on Sunday, December 11.

Pricing will be the same as the fire sale in August--the 16GB refurbished TouchPad will sell for $99 and the 32GB version will sell for $149. There will also be a $79 accessory pack for sale that includes a case, charging dock and wireless keyboard, according to an HP internal memo obtained by TechCrunch.

The sale, while publicly available on eBay, wasn't supposed to be announced to the public until Monday, according to the HP memo. The company was hoping to keep the sale a secret for as long as possible to allow company employees first dibs on buying the refurbished webOS-based tablets. I have reached out to HP to confirm TechCrunch's report and will update this post should the company reply.

HP will only be accepting PayPal payments for the TouchPads on Sunday, according to the internal memo, and all sales will be final. There will also be a limit of two TouchPads per customer. Each refurbished TouchPad will also come with a 90-day warranty. Refurbished devices are typically defective units returned by customers that the manufacturer restores to "almost new" condition and then resells at a discounted price.

HP's Zombie Legacy

HP's webOS-based TouchPad was officially discontinued in August less than two months after launching the tablet in the U.S. in early July. HP quickly sold off most its remaining stock in August at the fire sale pricing of $99 (16GB) and $149 (32GB). Many retailers nationwide followed suit and matched HP's sale price to unload their TouchPad inventory.

HP soon promised to hold another TouchPad fire sale to meet "unfulfilled demand," but that never happened. Instead, TouchPads have reappeared now and again as special offers from HP and major retailers--most recently in November at Best Buy and Walmart as part of an HP laptop promotion.

HP's TouchPad is gaining a reputation as the tablet that refuses to die since it seems to pop up in yet another final sale every few weeks. But considering the company is down to selling just refurbished units this time, Sunday's reported eBay sale may finally be the end of HP's failed tablet.

One question remaining from HP's TouchPad fiasco is what its future plans are for webOS. HP acquired the mobile operating system when it bought Palm in 2010. Most critics currently expect webOS to end up as a software platform for HP printers.

While HP hasn't officially announced the latest TouchPad sale yet, you might want to keep your eye on HP's eBay Store on Sunday just in case.

Great price to use as SQBT controller, with SqueezePad app.

[nspindel]

Pretty bad-ass:

http://www.head-fi.org/t/582394/modwright-modified-logitech-transporter

[polkatese]

Guys, any recommendations for radio stations (I am hunting for any Jazz/Pop/Classic Rock stations with > 128kbps)?

TIA

[dragon1952]

which one did you get?

Who...me? I got a Welborne supposedly NIB for $175 shipped. He was asking $249 or best offer so I offered $175 citing the current Welborne 20% offer and the fact that it comes with a 3 yr warranty. I was a little surprised he accepted.

[dragon1952]

Guys, any recommendations for radio stations (I am hunting for any Jazz/Pop/Classic Rock stations with > 128kbps)?

TIA

A few of my favorites are.
Planet Rock - UK http://opml.radiotime.com/Tune.ashx?id=s2377&formats=aac,ogg,mp3,wmpro,wma,wmvoice&partnerId=16&serial=6c7a4b90c94610f517423f599eb1e1fd
Deep Tracks - Chi, IL http://opml.radiotime.com/Tune.ashx?id=s52427&formats=aac,ogg,mp3,wmpro,wma,wmvoice&partnerId=16&serial=6c7a4b90c94610f517423f599eb1e1fd&filter=s
Radio Paradise - http://www.radioparadise.com/musiclinks/rp_128.m3u
Pink Floyd Radio - US http://opml.radiotime.com/Tune.ashx?id=s137543&formats=aac,ogg,mp3,wmpro,wma,wmvoice&partnerId=16&serial=6c7a4b90c94610f517423f599eb1e1fd&filter=s

[polkatese]

Thanks Rob. That's a great deal on the Welborne too.

[dragon1952]

Anybody tried any of the hi-res downloads with a Squeezebox Touch set-up? I've downloaded a few...Hotel California is awesome...also downloaded Rolling Stones Beggar's Banquet and Doobie Bros Captain and Me. All of them are awesome.

[steveinaz]

I've downloaded some 24/96 sampler type music, very nice. Finally finished ripping my Cd's last night, so I'll be hunting down some hi-rez stuff soon.

[nspindel]

Just opened a dispute with paypal to get a refund from Welborne. They were entirely responsive to me while I was inquiring about a purchase. Once I paid them, never heard from them again. I emailed them twice asking what's going on, and never got a reply. It's been a month since I paid. For a wire...

[heiney9]

Sorry to hear that Neil, while slow, they always delivered. I don't blame you one bit. Looks like Channel Islands Audio (CIA) is going to get more business. I won't be recommending Welborne anymore.

H9

[nspindel]

Four weeks for a wire is beyond slow. It wasn't even an assembled cable, it was a DIY kit.

[Sherardp]

Received my TeraDak power supply, and it is very nice. Pretty heavy and has a nice solid feel to it. Not bad for 150.00. I plan on installing it once my new Pio Elite arrives for the living room setup.

[brgman]

Just opened a dispute with paypal to get a refund from Welborne. They were entirely responsive to me while I was inquiring about a purchase. Once I paid them, never heard from them again. I emailed them twice asking what's going on, and never got a reply. It's been a month since I paid. For a wire...

If it works like mine did Neil after a while you will get a response from them through paypal saying they contacted you and told you some part was back ordered but it will now ship in a day or two.
Let me know if this is what happens please.

[EndersShadow]

So I do have a question for you guys on volume control. For those of you using this with a pre-amp do you:

1. Keep the pre at full volume and use the volume control on the Squeezebox (so you have your volume and playlist navigation in one remote)
2. Keep the Squeezebox at full volume and use the pre's remote/knob (requiring you to use one remote for volume, one for navigation of playlists)

[heiney9]

#2

h9

[steveinaz]

Always run the SQB at full volume. You can lock it at "fixed" output in the LMS advanced options.

[SCompRacer]

Anybody tried any of the hi-res downloads with a Squeezebox Touch set-up?

Most of my hi-res are homemade vinyl rips and they have excellent SQ. Wish I had more time to rip more vinyl. I do have a couple hi-res downloads.

Most of the time I use the volume control in the Touch's Squeeze app for the convenience of one remote. Soundchecks 3.0 Toolbox also has you set the volume to fixed.

[Sherardp]

So I do have a question for you guys on volume control. For those of you using this with a pre-amp do you:

1. Keep the pre at full volume and use the volume control on the Squeezebox (so you have your volume and playlist navigation in one remote)
2. Keep the Squeezebox at full volume and use the pre's remote/knob (requiring you to use one remote for volume, one for navigation of playlists)

Since I run mine for outdoor use most of the time, I use option 1 for Zone 2. When using it indoors I use option 2. Now that I have a new Pio Elite and can use the Iphone/Ipad app I can gain volume control of my receiver. Just thinking about that floors me, technology is really advancing for the greater good.

[PrazVT]

To further Sherard's answer - I keep the volume of all my Squeezeboxes frozen at 100%, since they're all connected to receivers / amps. And like him, I use the Pio Elite app or the remote for volume and Squeezecommander for the SB.

[nspindel]

If it works like mine did Neil after a while you will get a response from them through paypal saying they contacted you and told you some part was back ordered but it will now ship in a day or two.
Let me know if this is what happens please.

Never got the reply but today the wire came, so I just canceled the paypal dispute. Guess it takes a paypal dispute for them to ship your merchandise....

[anonymouse]

Has anybody tried this supply with their touch? http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=120-536

Some people have reported a heat issue - I suspect they are drawing high current at low voltage, which would require the regulator to dissipate the voltage that is stepped down. At the 12V, I suspect it will be fine.

Pros:
Regulated, not SMPS
Cheap
Did I say cheap?

So, any opinions?

[steveinaz]

Doesn't the Touch require 3A capability? That might explain the heat probs.

[heiney9]

I don't think it requires it, but both the Welborne and CIA power suppy are high current units @ 3A and 4A peak respectively with a constant for the CIA @ 2.2A and around 3A for the Welborne.

The SB3 specs at 1A so I would think the heat issue with the PE PS might not be from that, but I don't know.

H9

[nspindel]

The Touch doesn't draw that much power by itself. It carries the higher rating because it has the capability of providing power to an external USB device.

[polkatese]

Found an awesome hi-res Jazz station that does 320 kbps: Linn Jazz Mainstream/Standard Jazz, btw.

you can do search on Touch to find it.

[steveinaz]

Cool! You the man.

[nspindel]

Found an awesome hi-res Jazz station that does 320 kbps: Linn Jazz Mainstream/Standard Jazz, btw.

you can do search on Touch to find it.

Listening to this right now. Very impressive. Sounds awesome!

[EndersShadow]

Received my TeraDak power supply, and it is very nice. Pretty heavy and has a nice solid feel to it. Not bad for 150.00. I plan on installing it once my new Pio Elite arrives for the living room setup.

@Sherardp: You got the TeraDak hooked up and if so what are you impressions?

@Steve: Thoughts on wallwart v. upgraded CIA powersupply?

[falconcry72]

...hi-res Jazz station that does 320 kbps...

Isn't that an oxymoron?

[nspindel]

320kbps is about as hi-rez as you'll find on internet radio stations.

[heiney9]

320kbps and hi-rez in the same sentence is a misnomer and misleading, but then one always has to read between the lines in life to see what's really going on :wink:

[jaycam]

Hey guys! I've been using the SB Duet for a while now and am getting a Touch tomorrow! The upgraded power supply will have to wait a bit though...Thanks for the wealth of information in this thread!

[steveinaz]

@Steve: Thoughts on wallwart v. upgraded CIA powersupply?

To be honest, it's difficult to tell. It's certainly doing no harm, and I like NOT having that switching power supply upstream of all my other equipment.

[steveinaz]

Hey guys! I've been using the SB Duet for a while now and am getting a Touch tomorrow! The upgraded power supply will have to wait a bit though...Thanks for the wealth of information in this thread!

Good deal Jay, let us know when she arrives.

(In order of signifigance)

#1 priority-feed it lossless music
#2 priority-Connect to a "good" external DAC
#3 Priority-linear power supply
#4 Priority-other tweaks

[falconcry72]

#1 priority-feed it lossless music
#2 priority-Connect to a "good" external DAC
#3 Priority-linear power supply
#4 Priority-other tweaks

I am pretty nazi'ish about lossless files (see my above post about 320kbps mp3's:wink:), and my collection is 99.9% lossless; however, I have found that a well-encoded mp3 file being output to a quality DAC will sound better than a lossless file being output by a ****ty DAC, such as an ipod or computer's internal DAC.

Now the SQB's DAC's aren't half bad, so I've been told, so I don't know which would be better here.... but, Steve, I betcha 5 bucks that a well-encoded mp3 going out of your SQB digitally to your Benchmark would sound better than a lossless version of the same track being output through the SQB's analog outputs.


edit:

Just to be clear: I am in no way shape or form trying to condone the use of mp3's in a hifi setting! Friends don't let friends compress lossy!!!:smile:

[heiney9]

I dunno, I have yet to hear an excellent sounding mp3 through a top notch dac. So I'd probably have to disagree. If anything the better dac will expose even more flaws where as a cheaper dac will have a tendancy to mask the flaws when it comes to an mp3.

So I'm going to disagree. I occasionally listen to some HQ mp3's I have and I can always detect a slight loss in quality.

H9

[falconcry72]

I dunno, I have yet to hear an excellent sounding mp3 through a top notch dac. So I'd probably have to disagree. If anything the better dac will expose even more flaws where as a cheaper dac will have a tendancy to mask the flaws when it comes to an mp3.

So I'm going to disagree. I occasionally listen to some HQ mp3's I have and I can always detect a slight loss in quality.

H9

In my experience, the increased dynamics and clarity of a good DAC make up for the more exposed flaws of the mp3.

H9, get a y-cable (1/8" headphone jack > male RCA's), and do a comparison in your PC-based setup with the Musiland.

Headphone jack straight to pre vs. usb > musiland > pre.

I know I'm right on this one when dealing with a ****ty DAC, as I said above, like an ipod or computer. I've heard it a million times. I'm not sure with the SQB, though, because the SQB has much better DAC's than an ipod or stock PC sound card.

This test is you and Steve's homework for the weekend.

Extra credit to the first one who turns it in.:biggrin:

[EndersShadow]

(In order of signifigance)

#1 priority-feed it lossless music
#2 priority-Connect to a "good" external DAC
#3 Priority-linear power supply
#4 Priority-other tweaks


To be honest, it's difficult to tell. It's certainly doing no harm, and I like NOT having that switching power supply upstream of all my other equipment.

Using your list above makes me wonder if I should get something like the benchmark for this given your #2. I have an older Integra (DTR 5.9 (http://www.integrahometheater.com/model.cfm?m=DTR-5.9&class=Receiver&p=f)) which supposedly has decent 192K/24 Bit DACs's (cant find lots of info on make/model though) and the plan was to purchase the Touch & upgraded PS. Then A/B the Integra's DAC's v. Touch's.

BUT if I DONT get the upgraded PS I might have enough (~500) to get a decent DAC to put between the Touch and the Integra, but not enough to really do both......

Choices choices........

[heiney9]

Ok, I guess we have different idea's of ****ty dac's. Your implication as I read it was the SQB Touch internal dac's are ****ty. They aren't ****ty, they are actually pretty good for what they are. So I disagree about playing a flac file through the SQB dac vs. a 320kbps encoded mp3 through a good dac. The mp3 will still sound worse comparatively. You can't magically add dynamic range and clarity to something that has had it stripped away. Everytime I play the same mp3 through a better and better dac, it sounds worse and worse.

Sorry, I dont use a headphone jack or a straight PC for any listening. To much degredation in those two area's.

Here's your homework

rip a flac and an mp3 of your favorite demo track. Then using the same delivery method and rig feed the SQB the flac using the internal dac and then feed the SQB the mp3 using your external dac. If you prefer the mp3, then perhaps we have different criteria for evaluating what sounds good.

H9

[jaycam]

Good deal Jay, let us know when she arrives.

(In order of signifigance)

#1 priority-feed it lossless music
#2 priority-Connect to a "good" external DAC
#3 Priority-linear power supply
#4 Priority-other tweaks

Well, 98% of my music in FLAC (ripped from cd) and I'm slowly getting some hi-rez stuff from HDTracks. I'm going to have to rely on the Touch's DAC for a while longer. The next upgrade on my list is my receiver. So, I'm getting there...just gonna take a while :-)

[heiney9]

falcon, I agree with the iPod and computer statement as regards to being ****ty even for FLAC files. But that isn't how I read your initial post on the subject.

H9

[steveinaz]

Without trying to sound like a snob-ass dick-head, I would say that if a receiver is going to be used, I wouldn't see much advantage to a high priced external DAC. I'm just sayin I don't want you to waste money in that direction.

I would just do a comparo between the DACs in the Touch vs the DAC's in your receiver---whichever sounds better, wins.

[falconcry72]

Sorry, I dont use a headphone jack or a straight PC for any listening. To much degredation in those two area's.

So what's your Musiland rig based on?

[falconcry72]

falcon, I agree with the iPod and computer statement as regards to being ****ty even for FLAC files. But that isn't how I read your initial post on the subject.

H9


a well-encoded mp3 file being output to a quality DAC will sound better than a lossless file being output by a ****ty DAC, such as an ipod or computer's internal DAC.

Now the SQB's DAC's aren't half bad, so I've been told, so I don't know which would be better here.

Wasn't calling the SQB's DAC's ****ty at all.

[EndersShadow]

Without trying to sound like a snob-ass dick-head, I would say that if a receiver is going to be used, I wouldn't see much advantage to a high priced external DAC. I'm just sayin I don't want you to waste money in that direction.

Geez, you dick-head :twisted:. Just Kidding. Right now I am in a HT/2 channel combined setup since my LSi's are downstairs and I normally listen to music down there. The plan was:

Squeezebox to Integra (either via SPDIF or MIT EXp1's)
Integra set to stereo (so it adds in the sub) or Direct (no sub)
Integra to Sunfire 200x5 via MIT EXp1
Sunfire 200x5 to (moddded) LSi 15's via Audioquest CV-4 38v dbs speaker cable

My hope was that the DAC's in the Integra are better than the Touch's but without putting my ears on em I guess I wont know.

[steveinaz]

Oh--so is your Integra used as a preamp? If so, that's a little different. I'd try it both ways--but listen to each set of DAC's for at least 2 weeks at a time (don't A/B switch). I've found that DAC's are a little easier to judge over a long term listening session. That's just my 2 centavos.

[heiney9]

So what's your Musiland rig based on?

Asynchronous USB, ASIO enabled, not a soundcard, not a headphone jack, etc. When I refer to a straight PC I meant something like using an internal soundcard with a Windows K-mixer, or optical out w/Kmixer, etc, like so many here do which is really no better than an iPod or other type of marginal product.

H9

[heiney9]

Wasn't calling the SQB's DAC's ****ty at all.

The statement below pretty much infers the SQB dac's are ****ty if an mp3 thru a good dac will sound better than flac thru the SQB dac.


I am pretty nazi'ish about lossless files (see my above post about 320kbps mp3's:wink:), and my collection is 99.9% lossless; however, I have found that a well-encoded mp3 file being output to a quality DAC will sound better than a lossless file being output by a ****ty DAC, such as an ipod or computer's internal DAC.

Now the SQB's DAC's aren't half bad, so I've been told, so I don't know which would be better here.... but, Steve, I betcha 5 bucks that a well-encoded mp3 going out of your SQB digitally to your Benchmark would sound better than a lossless version of the same track being output through the SQB's analog outputs.

H9


edit:

Just to be clear: I am in no way shape or form trying to condone the use of mp3's in a hifi setting! Friends don't let friends compress lossy!!!:smile:

That was the basis for my intial post on the subject.

P.s. I apologize if I read into it more than you meant.

[nspindel]

Well, 98% of my music in FLAC (ripped from cd) and I'm slowly getting some hi-rez stuff from HDTracks. I'm going to have to rely on the Touch's DAC for a while longer. The next upgrade on my list is my receiver. So, I'm getting there...just gonna take a while :-)

By the way, I've got a bunch of hirez downloads from HDTracks and I'm becoming more and more convinced that most of the stuff they sell is complete ****. Been looking at some of their stuff in Audacity. Compressed, brick walled rubbish, converted to 24-bit and called hi-rez. The stuff that Linn sells is excellent, but it's all classical for the most part.

[steveinaz]

Have you found any other "worthy" sources? I kind of wondered about HDTracks as they have a spotty reputation at best. I'm gonna have to hit the Linn site.

[falconcry72]

Asynchronous USB, ASIO enabled, not a soundcard, not a headphone jack, etc. When I refer to a straight PC I meant something like using an internal soundcard with a Windows K-mixer, or optical out w/Kmixer, etc, like so many here do which is really no better than an iPod or other type of marginal product.

H9

yea, that's how I thought you were implementing the Musiland. What I'm saying, is that if you compare a good mp3 file through your Musiland, it will sound better than a FLAC file through the headphone jack.

[EndersShadow]

Oh--so is your Integra used as a preamp? If so, that's a little different. I'd try it both ways--but listen to each set of DAC's for at least 2 weeks at a time (don't A/B switch). I've found that DAC's are a little easier to judge over a long term listening session. That's just my 2 centavos.

Yes it is used as a pre-amp. So given that would you opt for the powersupply off the bat or wait to see if I needed the external DAC of something like say the benchmark? Or am I splitting hairs here?

The plan/hope is to snag another pair of LSi 15's as well before they become harder to grab and have a 4 LSi 15 + LSiC HT setup with the front 3 LSi's with mods and all driven by the Sunfire.

[falconcry72]

The statement below pretty much infers the SQB dac's are ****ty if an mp3 thru a good dac will sound better than flac thru the SQB dac.

That was the basis for my intial post on the subject.

Ah. I see the connection. I didn't word it right. I meant that I wasn't sure about the SQB, because it's not ****ty, but the fact that I bet on it losing does infer that I think it's ****ty, but that's not what I meant. What I meant was that a good mp3 through a GREAT DAC can sound better than a FLAC file through a pretty good DAC.


P.s. I apologize if I read into it more than you meant.

No worries, bro! It's Friday, and I'm fixin' to go get a good beer... if I can get away from my desk...

[steveinaz]

The power supply (IMO) for the Touch is not needed right away--it's a very, very subtle performance boost*. I'd try the comparo and run the Touch analog first for a couple weeks, then connect it digitally to the integra and see what you think.

*I still believe it's a worthy investment later down the road.

[EndersShadow]

The power supply (IMO) for the Touch is not needed right away--it's a very, very subtle performance boost*. I'd try the comparo and run the Touch analog first for a couple weeks, then connect it digitally to the integra and see what you think.

*I still believe it's a worthy investment later down the road.

Good cause the powersupply was going to really put me close to going over my limit on spending lol......

[EndersShadow]

Good cause the powersupply was going to really put me close to going over my limit on spending lol......

I will put it on the christmas/birthday list for a later date....

[dragon1952]

By the way, I've got a bunch of hirez downloads from HDTracks and I'm becoming more and more convinced that most of the stuff they sell is complete ****. Been looking at some of their stuff in Audacity. Compressed, brick walled rubbish, converted to 24-bit and called hi-rez. The stuff that Linn sells is excellent, but it's all classical for the most part.

Interesting.........I've downloaded 5 or 6 albums and they all sound superb. Hotel California, Ray Davies (See My Friends), Beggar's Banquet, Let it Bleed, U2 Achtung Baby, Doobie Bros. Captain and Me....all sound excellent.

[nspindel]

This is one of those times where I wish I had just listened with my ears and not my eyes. I was pretty happy with sound quality as well. But you wouldn't believe how compressed and hot Hotel California is. Pull it up in Audacity and turn on the clipping alert. It's disgusting....

[nspindel]

I just made this discovery in the last week and emailed HDTracks. They blamed the labels and tried to discount what I had found. They even went so far as to suggest that compression is used to create audiophile recordings. I'm heading out in a bit, but I'll put some detailed posts up this weekend.

[jaycam]

I got my Touch on Saturday and got it hooked up and running quickly. The sound quality is much better than the Duet I had. I have it connected to my receiver via toslink...I think it's setup to decode my flac files on the Touch. One question I have (might be a dumb one); is it okay to have the Touch sitting on top of one of my M60's? I had it on my tv stand it was too low to comfortably walk up to and use. Sitting it on the speaker gets it up to a good level for use.

Thanks!

Justin

[steveinaz]

That's fine if it works for you. By default the Touch will decode Flac with on-board TinySB.

[EndersShadow]

Jay if you have a smartphone there are apps that allow you to use your phone as the remote. Then it doesn't matter where you place it :smile:

[jaycam]

Jay if you have a smartphone there are apps that allow you to use your phone as the remote. Then it doesn't matter where you place it :smile:

Yeah, I have SqueezeCommander and love it. I just don't like having to pop a squat if my phone isn't on me. If having the touch on a speaker wont mess up the Touch or the speaker I think I'll leave it there for now. Plus it's out of reach of the kids...for now :-)

[thsmith]

I just made this discovery in the last week and emailed HDTracks. They blamed the labels and tried to discount what I had found. They even went so far as to suggest that compression is used to create audiophile recordings. I'm heading out in a bit, but I'll put some detailed posts up this weekend.

Interesting findings Neil, post those details please.

[nspindel]

Yes, sorry I didn't get around to it this weekend. Ended up with tickets to the Giants vs. Falcons game, which was far more interesting! :cheesygrin:

[nspindel]

http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?128354-HDTracks....-Is-it-a-scam

[steveinaz]

Ref: SQB Touch (Streaming PCM)

Take this for what it's worth; while listening again last night to my 24/96 download I experienced my first "drop-out." having a pretty darn robust wireless cable modem (Motorola Surfboard), on a hunch I decided to let LMS decode flac, and send as PCM, thinking the 24/96 might be a bit much for the Touch's TinySB/computing power. It worked. So their may be some truth to alleviating the Touch of "heavy-duty" processing (especially 24/96). Keep in mind, my laptop is a wired connection to the modem, the the signal is sent wireless to the Touch. The modem is only about 15ft away from the Touch.

[heiney9]

In 5 years never had a drop-out and I can say early on I didn't have the best wireless router. Even now the wireless router I have is older. There have been some times when I first fire things up some lag in loading a track, but never a drop-out after it started playing.

Plus, I don't think the SQB Touch is designed right at the lowest threshold of processing. There should be ample processing power no matter what the material is. Again, I've more hiccups using the computer to play music when I'm doing other processes. Why would processing at the computer alleviate this? It's one of the reasons I'm glad the Touch does it's own decoding.

H9

[steveinaz]

Considering the 24/96 files are HUGE, I think that's what taxed the Touch. An average 16/44 file is approx 35Mb vs a 24/96 at apprx 150mb. I've had zero issues with 16/44 flac being decoded either way.

Like I said, FWIW it worked flawlessly letting the server decode first. Maybe just dumb luck? Could be, I don't know.

[heiney9]

Considering the 24/96 files are HUGE, I think that's what taxed the Touch. An average 16/44 file is approx 35Mb vs a 24/96 at apprx 150mb. I've had zero issues with 16/44 flac being decoded either way.

Again, why would they allow hi rez decoding if the processor was so taxed to the limit? Continue to experiment because this may just be an anomoly. Wish I could contribute but I can't do hi-rez.

H9

[steveinaz]

Probably a mixture of trying to send wireless, and huge files (or like you said, an anomoly). Most everyone on the SQB forums recommend wired connection if your going to be playing alot of 24/96 material.

Switching to server side decoding is simple and fast, so I figured I'd try that first.

I also doubt my modem is optimized for best performance either, as I've done nothing "special" with the settings. I'm going to research that aspect, and make sure I've got it setup for best performance.

The "Touch" is simply my wading in the fray device for now. Sometime down the road, as better/more flexible hi-fi products are made available--I want a "hard drive player" of some type; but nobody is making it---yet. I'm sold on the computer audio aspect, as it's clear to me that HDD derived music sounds very, very good.

[tonyb]

They make hard drive players Steve, but they aren't cheap.

[steveinaz]

The only thing that comes close to what I want is the Olive; and even it doesn't have the stand-alone flexibility I want.

I realize I could build one, and I am considering that idea. I'm looking for an all-in-one unit that requires no network connection, can do hi-res, and either has it's own large display OR has a video output. Think "Flac Jukebox with display."

[heiney9]

I like the Touch because of it's small foot-print and I can have the associated computer hardware in a completely different place.

How do you get your files on a stand alone HD player and still use them elsewhere? That would be the draw back for me because I stream to other devices (Squeeze Radio) and I also play music on my computer system and I don't want to keep two sets of files, one on the HD player and one on the computer. If it turns out the HD player is bascially a mini-computer then why not just use the computer as we do now?

I suppose something like "cloud" technology and wireless through your in wall wiring is an alternative. My Direct TV box communicates with the internet through the wiring in my walls.

H9

[thsmith]

They make hard drive players Steve, but they aren't cheap.

This looks interesting if you have some computer skills

http://cheap-silent-usb-linux-music-server.blogspot.com/2009/03/where-it-all-started.html#comment-form

[thsmith]

I like the Touch because of it's small foot-print and I can have the associated computer hardware in a completely different place.

How do you get your files on a stand alone HD player and still use them elsewhere? That would be the draw back for me because I stream to other devices (Squeeze Radio) and I also play music on my computer system and I don't want to keep two sets of files, one on the HD player and one on the computer. If it turns out the HD player is bascially a mini-computer then why not just use the computer as we do now?

I suppose something like "cloud" technology and wireless through your in wall wiring is an alternative. My Direct TV box communicates with the internet through the wiring in my walls.

H9

A lot of peeople seem to use Mac Mini with Apple TV for multiple rooms.

[tonyb]

Look at Q-sonic or Soolos, used units aren't bad but new ones are used car kind of money. The newer Q sonic looks awesome. Also other make some too like YBA, Musicland Diamond. The up side to these units is they rip your cd's supposedly with better rippers in them, have high quality dacs, and a great user interface, software. Downside is most these units are one room solutions though in todays market, I'm sure some phone apps have been added by now.

Brock, the difference with these units and a computer is that a computer isn't built for audio from the ground up like these units. Better quality parts with audio first and foremost the priority.

http://www.qsonix.com/

[heiney9]

Except with the right set-up you can get just as good a quality from your PC. Marketers love to create a niche product and then tout it as better, perhaps for a computer novice who wants to spend zero time understanding and wants to "pay" for a plug-in play unit that states it's better..........then I can see a market for them. Certainly there is a portion of users who don't want to fuss with settings and/or having any understanding how to make it work best. I am not one of them :cool:

Again, I am not ripping twice nor am I keeping 2 sets of files. But I can see the appeal for a very casual user who is also an "audiophile". It seems it could be aimed at the same person who DL's iTunes files and they typically aren't an "audiophile"

I'm sure things will get better and better as well as easier to use and integrate until we have a single box that does everything under the sun.

H9

[tonyb]

You can build your own too, some take their old computers or find used ones cheap, clean all the garbage off of them and just add a network storage device. I know Phil and myself use Sonos with our computers to give wireless connectivety to up to 32 zones all from one wireless controller or one phone app. Independent volume controls for each zone, can play different songs on each zone or lump zones together.

You have a dac already, a quality ripper and storage plus a modded sonos for 24/96 may be cheaper, I dunno.

Well Brock, thats the ticket....ease of use. Which is why I went with Sonos personally. If I kick the bucket tomarrow, would my wife know how to download , tag the files what folders they are in ? If something went wrong, would she know how to fix it ? Probably not, and has no interest in knowing it either. She wants something that simply works with no headaches. Sonos fit that bill for me, it's so easy it's sick. Thats the selling point. Also most of these all in one units have 17 inch monitors which is nice for those not keen on a small screen.

[steveinaz]

Exactly. Someone will build it. Already Marantz, NAD, Arcam, Cambridge Audio, MF, and Bryston have network players---and maybe if I better understood how the music selection interface works, one of them may be the ticket. But I eventually want something that requires NO NETWORK, NO INTERNET. I know, I'm a dinosaur.

[tonyb]

No internet means no album art buddy boy. You need it for some parts, self diagnostics, album art, any downloaded music you may come across that floats your boat. The all in one players like a q-sonix or Soolos are nice, but even I am not hip to the costs of these things compared to what they offer. I guess it comes down to how much are you willing to pay for convenience. Also alot of the coin is in the software. These higher end units have software thats tricked out to the 9's and will blow you away.

[steveinaz]

I don't do album art. I still would maintain internet access---just not as part of my audio system.

Think of it this way...does your Cd player require internet? wireless? album art? Now you're feeling me. I HATE "bells & whistles" (on anything) I like good 'ol solid simplicity. Glocks, base trim jeeps, a cell phone that does nothing but make phone calls, that's where I live. LOL

[tonyb]

Yeah man, I'm feeling ya....LOL, and thats cool if thats not your bag. It does however make it a cool feature for others using your system, like guests, certainly not a priority though.

I look at computer music gear as like looking for a receiver, you pick the bells and whistles you want.

[steveinaz]

I hate my wifes cell phone---I don't even know how to answer the damn thing. Meh.

[heiney9]

I don't do album art. LOL

Huh?

Why get the Touch then, the screen is for the art as well as it being on your Android/iPhone? Album art is a must, especially since I use Media Monkey for my computer in the office rig.

No album art, blasphemy. :evil::cheesygrin:

How do you even tag without the art being part of the default.

[steveinaz]

Nah, I just use the "large display" setting, no stinkin' art. The music IS the art baby. I never bothered to chase down all the album art.

I told you I was simple.

[heiney9]

You're "hard core" my man, hard core. :lol:

[Drenis]

Nah, I just use the "large display" setting, no stinkin' art. The music IS the art baby. I never bothered to chase down all the album art.

I told you I was simple.
I'm with you on this one. I could care less for the art. If it's there then so be it but I don;t go out of my way to acquire the metadata for album art.

[heiney9]

The thing is dB Poweramp adds the art by default. I suppose one could go in and turn it off, but why?

H9

[steveinaz]

I know EAC doesn't look for it---'cause I got none...LOL

[steveinaz]

I'm with you on this one. I could care less for the art. If it's there then so be it but I don;t go out of my way to acquire the metadata for album art.

...and when you factor in that I'm 11ft from my Touch, I wouldn't be able to see it anyway! LOL!! That's why I bought the duet remote.

[tonyb]

I always wondered why squeezebox never came out with a touch that has a wireless remote, doesn't seem like it would be that hard to incorporate.

[steveinaz]

It comes with a remote, but if you're more than 6ft away from the device, good luck seeing what you're selecting. That's why I picked up the duet remote with the screen on it.

[nspindel]

Because everyone's using phone apps now to do the same thing.

[FTGV]

Asynchronous USB, ASIO enabled, not a soundcard, not a headphone jack, etc. When I refer to a straight PC I meant something like using an internal soundcard with a Windows K-mixer, or optical out w/Kmixer, etc, like so many here do which is really no better than an iPod or other type of marginal product.

H9Whoa big fella,outputing lossless data direct from a PC via an SPDIF connection be it optical or coax to a good outboard DAC even with the dreaded K-mixer IMO should easily trump the analog out put of an ipod. If thats what your implying?

[Drenis]

For me, metadata is not needed but is nice eye candy if so desired. If one of my programs downloads the content then I don't mind.

I finally got to play with a Squeezebox Touch at a audio shop in town that wanted $399 BEFORE TAXES for one... very slick unit. MUCH smaller then I thought it was. NOT worth $400 before taxes...

With the Playbook OS2 due out next month and the flexibility to run Android apps, running the Squeezebox software from my Playbook will allow me to rid my HTPC in lieu of the SBT. :)

[heiney9]

Whoa big fella,outputing lossless data direct from a PC via an SPDIF connection be it optical or coax to a good outboard DAC even with the dreaded K-mixer IMO should easily trump the analog out put of an ipod. If thats what your implying?

You're reading it wrong. I should have worded it better. Re-read it within the context of what I was answering. By itself as a statement it could have been worded differently to be more succinct.

But I was pointing out exactly what you state.

H9

[heiney9]

For me, metadata is not needed but is nice eye candy if so desired. If one of my programs downloads the content then I don't mind.

I finally got to play with a Squeezebox Touch at a audio shop in town that wanted $399 BEFORE TAXES for one... very slick unit. MUCH smaller then I thought it was. NOT worth $400 before taxes...

With the Playbook OS2 due out next month and the flexibility to run Android apps, running the Squeezebox software from my Playbook will allow me to rid my HTPC in lieu of the SBT. :)

So you don't use metadata at all? Or do you mean cover art as part of the metadata? If there is no metadata, there there is absolutely no way for any program to identify what you are playing or searching for.

How would you know which file is Dire Straits - Brothers in Arms if you don't use metadata to tag your files?

H9

[Drenis]

So you don't use metadata at all? Or do you mean cover art as part of the metadata? If there is no metadata, there there is absolutely no way for any program to identify what you are playing or searching for.

How would you know which file is Dire Straits - Brothers in Arms if you don't use metadata to tag your files?

H9

What do you think ID2/3 tags are for? They store all that information which is part of the file. And yes I was referring to the cover art. I think that's what Steve was hinting at as well.

You can search for files using words instead of pictures. How else do you surf for artists etc?

[heiney9]

ID/3 tags are referred to as metadata.

When you said you don't use metadata on your files, I assumed you meant no tagging info. Tags (ID3) are known as 'descriptive metadata'. So I was just clarifying what you meant.

H9

[steveinaz]

I was (am) a newbie, so I wasn't sure if EAC was going to grab cover art or not. It didn't (or possibly I didn't set it up right?) but it was never a big deal to me either way.

On another note; now that I'm thoroughly familiar with the duet remote operation--I love that thing.

[PrazVT]

How would you know which file is Dire Straits - Brothers in Arms if you don't use metadata to tag your files?

H9

He'd have to do straight up file searches ...which sounds like a pain in the ass.

[heiney9]

He'd have to do straight up file searches ...which sounds like a pain in the ass.

How? Using Windows? Sound like fun when you are sitting in your listening chair trying to get your listen on. Not to mention how tedious it would be to manually name each file individually. Thank God for metadata and ID3 tags.

H9

[heiney9]

I was (am) a newbie, so I wasn't sure if EAC was going to grab cover art or not. It didn't (or possibly I didn't set it up right?) but it was never a big deal to me either way.

On another note; now that I'm thoroughly familiar with the duet remote operation--I love that thing.

There should be a setting for it. I'm surprised in the current version that isn't a default setting.

H9

[steveinaz]

Even with my limited knowledge at the time, I assumed it would. It did pull all the album/song info in.

[polkatese]

For those who owns Logitech Harmony One, remote code for SQBT is available and built-in.

Steve, I agree, it's hard to see the screen from anywhere beyond 6' +, hence I use an iPad app to control mine (and occasionally using H1 by programming all my stations under favorites).

[Drenis]

ID/3 tags are referred to as metadata.

When you said you don't use metadata on your files, I assumed you meant no tagging info. Tags (ID3) are known as 'descriptive metadata'. So I was just clarifying what you meant.

H9

You're right. I worded it incorrectly at the start. However, I didn't know ID tags were classified as metadata along with cover art. My point was about the art. Period. So I apologize. Thanks for clearing up what I wanted to say.

However...


How? Using Windows? Sound like fun when you are sitting in your listening chair trying to get your listen on. Not to mention how tedious it would be to manually name each file individually. Thank God for metadata and ID3 tags.

H9

Really? Sarcasm much?

[FTGV]

Plus, you like to always follow me around and like to call me out whenever you feel I've opinned in error.Yeah Brock because I disagreed with you on one or two technical points of late I guess I'm a stalker. You yourself are very quick to respond to posts you deem erronous to as you would say set the record straight.As an aside we are (IMO atleast) in agreement more times than not.



By itself as a statement it could have been worded differently to be more succinct.

But I was pointing out exactly what you state.

H9Sorry my mistake if I took it out of context.I should have been more thorough in my atempt to try and determine what the true meaning of your statement was.

[heiney9]

You're right. I worded it incorrectly at the start. However, I didn't know ID tags were classified as metadata along with cover art. My point was about the art. Period. So I apologize. Thanks for clearing up what I wanted to say.

However...



Really? Sarcasm much?

You know of another way to embed data (metadata) into a file? The other way is to name the files in Windows (whatever you want them to be) and then do a Windows search when you want to find them or at the very least Windows Explorer to manage them. As soon as you take the file out of the Windows environment the file name assigned to it by Windows means nothing. Perhaps it came off to you as sarcasm, but it's 100% true.

H9

[heiney9]

Yeah Brock because I disagreed with you on one or two technical points of late I guess I'm a stalker. You yourself are very quick to respond to posts you deem erronous to as you would say set the record straight.As an aside we are (IMO atleast) in agreement more times than not.


Sorry my mistake if I took it out of context.I should have been more thorough in my atempt to try and determine what the true meaning of your statement was.

I know Fred, that's why I edited my original post.......to caustic. Words on the screen, yada, yada....I didn't word it very clearly to begin with. A clear case of me the writer understanding what I meant, but the re-reading it later thinking, hmmmm that's confusing.

We agree that even a soundcard output using K-mixer to an outboard dac would be better than and iPod and or headphone jack outputting the same signal.

H9

[dragon1952]

EAC does find cover art. It's in the set-up. You can point it to where you want to get the art from. It has a freebie default or you can specify a pay site. To configure start EAC and click on the EAC tab, then Metadata options. Metadata provider should be 'freedb Metadata plugin'. Also under 'Metadata options' click on the 'freedb' tab and make sure your email address is there or else it won't work.
To retrieve album art select 'Database' tab, then 'Get CD Information from', then select 'Remote Metadata provider'. Do this prior to burning. You can choose to search for small, medium or large images (i use medium). It will display a bunch of choices and just select the one you want and click on 'Transfer selected cover to EAC'

[steveinaz]

Thanks man. You rock.

[heiney9]

Steve and others, it's just another thing to add when you are ripping. Who knows what technology or configuration is coming down the pipe. You may not use cover art now, but in the future you could wish you added it at the beginning rather than having to add it all at a later date. It's free and once configured is there if you need it in the future.

H9

[steveinaz]

I'm waiting for magic software that will scan my entire library and fetch all my cover art automatically. LOL

[EndersShadow]

I'm waiting for magic software that will scan my entire library and fetch all my cover art automatically. LOL

Aren't you married ;)

[tonyb]

Aren't you married ;)

God help him the day he asked Bev to "fetch" something for him. She knows where the guns are at.

Magic software ? They all pretty much do it, one click and it "fetches" art for the whole library. Album art may or may not be of significance to some, but I find the visual aspect of audio on some level just as enjoyable. Seeing an album cover brings back memories of where I was, who I was with, though.....who I was with may not be that enjoyable of a memory now that I think about it. Ok, lets stick to where I was at.

[steveinaz]

...and she can shoot them well.

What software does that?

[EndersShadow]

God help him the day he asked Bev to "fetch" something for him. She knows where the guns are at.


...and she can shoot them well.

As a married man myself that was obviously meant in jest (as you both took it :smile:). I dont own guns, but my wife can throw a pretty mean fast and accurate shoe :wink:

[tonyb]

What software.....the one your using to rip does it. Itunes even does it though not as good as others. My sonos does it, most others like media monkey and J rivers does it. Theres no magic bro, it's a matter of going into your advanced menu and clicking on "get album art", and it does the whole library in minutes. Maybe a different way of doing it between softwares, but in general, yeah, it's that easy.

[steveinaz]

Cool, I'll have to check that out.

[thsmith]

Having the album art just looks better and professional. Well worth the time to do. I have about 30 out of 857 that I had load manually, no big deal and looks great.

[TG Meat]

Ok, based on some of the impressions of the forum, I pulled the trigger on CI Audio's PSU for the Touch today. I really debated Welbourne Vs. CI, but reading about some of the drama with Welbourne, it made it an easy choice. I have really been listening to the Touch alot and like what I hear, however, I am hopeful this might offer a better experience. I guess I have 30 days to decide, with small restocking fee, if I do not notice improvement. Thanks to everyone for posting your experiences and impressions. I hope to do a little review, after I receive and settle it in my system.

[steveinaz]

Can't say with any certainty that my CIA improved things, but I do like the idea of cleaner/better regulated power. There does seem to be a teeny bit more solidity to the sound.

[polkatese]

Can't say with any certainty that my CIA improved things, but I do like the idea of cleaner/better regulated power. There does seem to be a teeny bit more solidity to the sound.

Steve, mine open up another layer of resolution to the point that I can literally see the band players in the front speakers....

ok. Agreed with Steve, but the cool blue light is to die for.

[steveinaz]

Sometimes, especially with subtle upgrades, I question wether I'm hearing differences or just getting used to the sound. I *think* there is more spaciousness, a bit quieter background, and a touch more body--but like I said, it's very subtle--and I'm not that confident in these findings. Either way---I'd do it over again. Given it's performance/price ratio, the Touch "deserves" a better power supply. Most people spend more on a single cable.

IMO, the "magic" combo with the SQB Touch is: Flac, DAC, power supply.

[heiney9]

My Welborne, PS wasn't night and day at first listen. But comparing it to the walwart back to back I noticed much better imaging, delineation, crispness and even blacker background. After several listening sessions, for me, it's a must to use a nicer, cleaner power unit like the CIA or Welborne.

H9

[nspindel]

I've never tried my Touch without the upgraded ps, as I already owned the Welborne, but from everything I've read the improvement is there but subtle. For the Squeezebox Classic, however, the improvement was dramatic.

[steveinaz]

Word is that the Classic had a very poor switcher, making the PS upgrade far more significant.

I figure:

Touch...$239 (what I paid)
CIA PS..$259

Total...$498; not too shabby for an excellent source.

[dragon1952]

reported

[LuSh]

Can somebody have mercy on me? I use iTunes, and a PC all files are ripped in AIFF...very few cover arts are showing up...can you direct me to a page within this thread? So far a slight improvement over my Apple TV and the squeeze pad app is much better then the Apple remote app however the cover art is bumming me out...I had it all in ATV and iTunes...

[coolsax]

Just ordered mine today! nice price from Electronics Expo store on Amazon.

can't wait!

[heiney9]

Can somebody have mercy on me? I use iTunes, and a PC all files are ripped in AIFF...very few cover arts are showing up...can you direct me to a page within this thread? So far a slight improvement over my Apple TV and the squeeze pad app is much better then the Apple remote app however the cover art is bumming me out...I had it all in ATV and iTunes...

I know nothing about Apple or iTunes, etc.......but I'm told by Apple lovers the platform is so much better and so much easier than a PC it should practically pull the cover art out of thin air if you just smile at it.

Good luck, wish I could help but I use a PC and I have all my cover art. :lol:

[mdaudioguy]

LuSh, I was going to direct you to mp3tag, since I think it's the best tagging program out there, however, I just looked and it doesn't seem to support AIFF. Have you considered something like dbpoweramp to convert to another format, such as flac?

[LuSh]

I have figured it out. I thought I had ripped most of my files in AIFF but actually only half were, the other half were in WAV...so I'm re-ripping and sure enought squeeze center is finding everything. If you own an iPad I highly recommend Squeezepad for music control, it's simply awesome.

[polkatese]

Gents, who has tried and subscribe to MOG streaming to SQBT? It's $10/month but guaranteed 320 kbps streaming. I've been happy with Pandora and Slacker, so the only consideration is hi-res, not selection. worth it?

[tonyb]

I ve tried it briefly, with my Sonos, didn't think anything stood out as being better than any of the others.

[polkatese]

gotcha..thanks Tony.

[nspindel]

Just ordered mine today! nice price from Electronics Expo store on Amazon.

can't wait!

+1 for that deal, thanks for the tip. At that price, I decided to get a second Touch for my office rig, rather than moving the one I had back and forth from my two-channel setup. Shweet!

[Drenis]

Well got my SQBT up and running last night. Took almost 45 minutes to get it setup and playing. UNREAL the amount of options and features and junk to choose and select from. Will learn about it all this weekend.

This thing is a gem. Very fast and easy to use as far as playback. However, after trying to search for artists and manuver for 10 minutes with the remote, I said "THE HELL WITH THIS!" and bought an app for my Playbook to control it... WHY DID I NOT BUY THIS SOONER!?!?!? I can't believe how efficient this setup is. This is a slick device. Brings the nerd right out in me.

Now lets talk about initial sound impressions... Currently configured as: FLAC files streamed through ethernet to SQBT -> Coax out to Pop Pulse DAC -> MIT EXp 1's to Pioneer Elite AVR in Pure Direct -> MIT EXp 1 to Carver TFM-42 -> Monoprice wires (EXp 1 Speaker Cables in the mail!) to RTi A9's.

Was there a difference?

Oh HELL yeah. And I really emphasize that because there really was. It's strange in a sense to me just how much the sound has evolved. It has shown me where the weaknesses are in my setup (MP3's, AVR, lack of ext. DAC and speaker cables). I'm thrilled by how much an ext. DAC has shaped the sound. How wide the sound stage got and how much more precise vocals are. It makes me question if it's all in my head but EVERY song has that now. So far I am loving the pure sound I got so far. I still have some configuration to do. Will have to re-read this thread for all the tips and tricks.

One issue I've run into is that one of my albums wont play. it's no different from any of my other rips. The app see's it and will try to play it, but the SQBT just displays a blank library screen or something to that extent. It's odd and also my other halfs' favorite album so it has to be fixed or she will rage and I'll have to return this gem so MUST BE FIXED! :lol:

[gdpeck]

Gents, who has tried and subscribe to MOG streaming to SQBT? It's $10/month but guaranteed 320 kbps streaming. I've been happy with Pandora and Slacker, so the only consideration is hi-res, not selection. worth it?

I'm currently subscribing to MOG, and I love it. I completed a 1 month trial of Slacker, Spotify, and MOG, and ended up liking MOG the best. I think the 320 kbs stuff sounds really nice through my equipment, and I especially like how easy it is to download music to my iPhone for offline play. Also like the fact that you can use it concurrently from multiple locations. Spotify only allows one. There's a lot of information on the Web about the alleged catalog sizes of both Spotify and MOG, and it seems that while Spotify may have a slightly larger catalog, MOG is very close behind. Also Spotify has been very slow to get their entire catalog up to 320 kbs. Another advantage of MOG is that they allow 320kbs even for free users.

I think that MOG's Squeezebox interface could be a little bit better, but I mostly use iPeng to control my Squeezeboxes (en), and it works pretty well.

One weakness I see in MOG is the radio options. If you just want to listen to albums, MOG is fantastic, but I think Slacker has the best radio interface of all of the services I've tried. Also, I have never tried Rhapsody, but have heard good things about it as well.

MOG only gives a 14 day trial, but if you google the following search string: "mog 30 day trial starbucks", you can find a 30 day promo, so try it out. I liked it so much, I just left it turned on.

[steveinaz]

One issue I've run into is that one of my albums wont play. it's no different from any of my other rips. The app see's it and will try to play it, but the SQBT just displays a blank library screen or something to that extent.

Check your hard drive to verify the music is there...I had one strange "rip" occurance where EAC was acting like it ripped an album, but when I went back and checked, there were no songs in the directory. I just re-ripped the CD and it worked fine. Also, do a "Clear and Re-Scan my library" command on Logitech Media Server.

Anytime you have strange glitches like mutliple album listings, missing songs, or if you rip a better version of a CD you already have--make sure to run "Clear and Re-Scan."

[polkatese]

I'm currently subscribing to MOG, and I love it.

Agreed. I tried it for 14 days and decided to let on. SQ is definitely better than Slacker and Pandora, it just take a bit of getting used to. Slacker has a better logical user interface menu.

[Drenis]

Check your hard drive to verify the music is there...I had one strange "rip" occurance where EAC was acting like it ripped an album, but when I went back and checked, there were no songs in the directory. I just re-ripped the CD and it worked fine. Also, do a "Clear and Re-Scan my library" command on Logitech Media Server.

Anytime you have strange glitches like mutliple album listings, missing songs, or if you rip a better version of a CD you already have--make sure to run "Clear and Re-Scan."

I think that might be the issue. I was making changes and re-scanning the library. Seems to scan EVERYTHING outside of the media folders you delegate or at first. I'll try clearing and re-scanning when I get home.

Also, the files are good as they play fine on my desktop setup which was USB out to DAC... so I know the files are there and work/play okay. Certainly need to do some tweaking. Wish it showed the bitrate of files being played. At first it had MP3's and FLAC mixed and you could never tell which was which. Now I just have my flac files listed under "Media Folders" and it's grabbing from there.

[tonyb]

Is it just the album art your missing ?

[Drenis]

No. that will probably be the last thing I set up. I saw some options to have dedicated art folders and what not. Some art shows up already. The issue is all the songs from one album show up (art and tracks) but wont play. Haven;t tried all material to see if it's isolated to just the one.

[heiney9]

Drenis,

Make sure when you are ripping you files and the program is tagging that you include the art work now. Don't skip it to add later, what a nightmare what will be.

H9

[gdpeck]

Agreed. I tried it for 14 days and decided to let on. SQ is definitely better than Slacker and Pandora, it just take a bit of getting used to. Slacker has a better logical user interface menu.

I guess I should have checked the date of your post, before I replied. :wink:

[Drenis]

Drenis,

Make sure when you are ripping you files and the program is tagging that you include the art work now. Don't skip it to add later, what a nightmare what will be.

H9

My trial of dbpoweramp expired so I have to purchase a copy so I can continue ripping my other discs. Wondering if I have to purchase a copy of MM as I use that now for management. I have a lot of work to do as far as sorting is concerned. Each artist has their own folder, albums in sub-folders. I have to read up on how LMS stores the metadata for the files. I saw something in the options...

[steveinaz]

I use Exact Audio Copy for ripping, and MediaMonkey for cleaning up tags. Both are free.

[heiney9]

What's LMS? You shouldn't have to look anything up as far as metadata, it's automatic unless you really mess with the standard settings. Sorting? What sorting? Each artist should have their own folder and the sub-folders are the albums.

Don't overthink this, it's so simple.

[heiney9]

I prefer dBPoweramp over EAC these days.

[Drenis]

What's LMS? You shouldn't have to look anything up as far as metadata, it's automatic unless you really mess with the standard settings. Sorting? What sorting? Each artist should have their own folder and the sub-folders are the albums.

Don't overthink this, it's so simple.

LMS = Logitech Media Server

It's not simple when things are not so neatly organized. I have the knowledge to figure it all out. I literally played with it for an hour yesterday so I still have much to learn. Just wanted to get a quick listen in.

I'm sure it is real simple, just need to get it set up the way I want. Some people like the formats or how information is stored and displayed differently. Hell I don't even know how the default is set up. You can grill me on simplicity AFTER the weekend. :razz:

[Drenis]

I use Exact Audio Copy for ripping, and MediaMonkey for cleaning up tags. Both are free.

Don't you have to buy a copy of MM to reap the benefits of getting the tags properly updated? perhaps I need to read the differences between the two cause I'm always being prompted to buy it with some of the options I try to use.

[heiney9]

Don't you have to buy a copy of MM to reap the benefits of getting the tags properly updated? perhaps I need to read the differences between the two cause I'm always being prompted to buy it with some of the options I try to use.

No, if you go the website there is a matrix of the free vs the gold version. I bought it simply to support the developers since I don't use the few extra features that come with the pay version.

H9

[steveinaz]

SQB/LMS is kind of strange in that some data is taken from how directories are named, and some data is pulled from the tagging info. My EAC was originally setup to include the year, ie: 1978 - Journey - Evoluton on the directories. Well, consequently this same info was displayed on the Touch. It was too much info, so I went back and changed the default setting on EAC, and took the year info off the directory names so the Touch would simply display "Journey - Evolution."

[heiney9]

Yes, too much info is a bad thing. I want the basics not an encyclopedia of information.

H9

[gdpeck]

SQB/LMS is kind of strange in that some data is taken from how directories are named, and some data is pulled from the tagging info. My EAC was originally setup to include the year, ie: 1978 - Journey - Evoluton on the directories. Well, consequently this same info was displayed on the Touch. It was too much info, so I went back and changed the default setting on EAC, and took the year info off the directory names so the Touch would simply display "Journey - Evolution."

Player display is super easy to control for older players like the Squeezebox Classic from the LMS web interface. I never noticed this before, but now that you've pointed it out, I don't know how to control the Touch display, or whether it get's the display info from tags, or folder structure. I don't think folder structure should be a factor at all, unless tag info is missing. Maybe logitech doesn't agree with me.

[heiney9]

It gets it's display from the same exact place as any SQB product, thru the SQB software. When I switched from the SQB III to the Touch, nothing changed because I was using the same version of the SQB software.

Yes, that's where you will edit what info you want to display. I had forgotten that since I set mine up so long ago.

H9

[Drenis]

Hey h9,

http://soundcheck-audio.blogspot.com/

Have you done this mod? First thing I noticed was my bass wasn't as it was, lacking a bit and some of the descriptions people talk about match some of my thoughts. While there were improvements I wonder if some adjustments can help with that especially with streaming the material.

[gdpeck]

It gets it's display from the same exact place as any SQB product, thru the SQB software. When I switched from the SQB III to the Touch, nothing changed because I was using the same version of the SQB software.

Yes, that's where you will edit what info you want to display. I had forgotten that since I set mine up so long ago.

H9

That's where the problem is. The interface settings are not recognized by the Touch, like they are on the old players. I have the settings set to display DISCNUMBER - TRACKNUMBER, TITLE from ALBUM by ARTIST (I like too much information). My SB3 displays exactly like I have the settings configured. My Touch displays TITLE, ARTIST, ALBUM. I can get the settings to influence the Touch display, but the Touch display doesn't completely obey the settings. If I set the Interface setting to TITLE only, I get TITLE only on the Touch display. If I set it to anything else I get TITLE, ARTIST, ALBUM.

[heiney9]

No, a friend did and it messed up his library and he had to fix it, so I stayed away. I am very happy with the standard performance so I didn't bother.

If it ain't broke...............

H9

[heiney9]

That's where the problem is. The interface settings are not recognized by the Touch, like they are on the old players. I have the settings set to display DISCNUMBER - TRACKNUMBER, TITLE from ALBUM by ARTIST (I like too much information). My SB3 displays exactly like I have the settings configured. My Touch displays TITLE, ARTIST, ALBUM. I can get the settings to influence the Touch display, but the Touch display doesn't completely obey the settings. If I set the Interface setting to TITLE only, I get TITLE only on the Touch display. If I set it to anything else I get TITLE, ARTIST, ALBUM.

I was fine for me, but then at the time I switched from the SQB III to the Touch, over a year ago (almost 2 now) I had no problems. Since in 2 years the software version has been updated maybe it's different today.

H9

[Drenis]

No, a friend did and it messed up his library and he had to fix it, so I stayed away. I am very happy with the standard performance so I didn't bother.

If it ain't broke...............

H9

Still have the original PSU or done the upgrade? I was expecting a brick style external PSU but it was just a tiny adapter. I've done some reading today on the Well Wart and it's not very liked...

Sorry. maybe this has ALL been covered in this thread. I need to re-read it all. Going to be a fun weekend. hell the damn thing isn;t even burnt in. :wink:

[heiney9]

It has been covered a LOT, but I'll throw ya a bone.

The walwart stinks I use a Welborne Labs linear power supply, but they aren't real fast in shipping or communication. Nice product. CI Audio and a couple others sell PS for teh Touch, highly recommend it. I won't run with out it.

H9

[steveinaz]

Drenis
I would take Brocks advice on Mods--at least for now (it ain't broke, so don't try to fix it)*. I did get the Channel Island power supply ($259); can't say that it made a big impact, but I think the Touch is at a level that it is a worthy upgrade. My SQB sounds fantastic. I run mine via coaxial to my DAC, the signal sent wireless. I'll give $1000 to anyone who can distinguish it from my CD transport 7 out of 10 attempts. (I'll give ya 3 "misses"). The key is the same with any system, a good DAC and good speakers. Enjoy!

*You should see the nearly endless thread of people on the SQB forum who end up with issues after doing those mods.

[nspindel]

Another worthy source of power supply upgrades is Bolder Cable.

[steveinaz]

I ended up buying a duet controller, I love that thing. Sit on my couch and punch up music. Wicked cool.

[steveinaz]

Another worthy source of power supply upgrades is Bolder Cable.

Looking at your system, I bet that sounds real nice.

[heiney9]

Another worthy source of power supply upgrades is Bolder Cable.

Yes, I used a Bolder modded ELPAC power supply for my previous SQB III

[nspindel]

And that same power supply will work just fine with the SBT.

[heiney9]

Yes, I used a Bolder modded ELPAC power supply for my previous SQB III


And that same power supply will work just fine with the SBT.

I sold it with the SQB III because at the time I was told it didn't have enough voltage. Doesn't matter the Welborne looks much cooler :lol:

H9

[nspindel]

Yes. I have 'em both, one in my 2-channel system and the other in my office headphone setup. For a while I was moving one SBT back and forth between the two systems, but I got a second SBT now. I now have two SBT's, one SB3, two SB Radios, and one Boom!

[Drenis]

Thanks guys. Appreciate all the helpful hints. As I said, I'll be re-reading this thread over the weekend. A PSU upgrade will be next then.

[steveinaz]

Don't feel like you're behind the curve, I'm still learning what different options do.

[tonyb]

I would hold off on the mods and work on the system and getting it to sound the way you like first. Work on getting it all setup, then work on the dac angle and pre amp before throwing money at SB mods.

[Drenis]

So while I didn't get ANY time to read this thread again, I did do some more tweaks. Still have some reading up on why some music stations play and others don't. Still need to sort my very messy lossless music media folder.

I was able to determine that the issue I was experiencing is with the app I use to access my SQBT. It reads the files but upon selection does a blank and the SQBT plays nothing (and shows nothing). When you access the files via the remote on the SQBT itself, files play fine. So something in the app is not updating or working properly.

Also, is there anyway to have LMS continuously scan for updated media? I always have to rescan anytime I add materiel in that directory. I was very frustrated on Sunday when trying to play a sing for my other half and it wouldn't show up in the artists list. :evil: Had to open LMS and tell it to rescan and voila...

Also noticed the sound has changed a bit. Not sure if thats due to burn in or some setting changes I made. But sound is fuller, bass has expanded and is now fuller to what it SHOULD sound like. Also the second set of MIT's I have in my setup are about a full week and a half burnt in. I'm really diggin' the sound... and so is my other half.

I put on one of her favorite songs (Coheed & Cambria - Welcome Home) and have her take a listen for her impressions from hearing it on MP3 to now lossless with the addition of the SQBT and DAC with MIT's. Well she noticed a difference. She said it was like you were front and center and the songs made a very exciting performance. What's weird is when I turn it up to a reasonable level... not even 1 watt, maybe 80db and she grabs the remote and starts turning it up to probably 95db and I'm watching the lights on the Carver climb. Rather funny in a sense but we both love the ease of use and how clear the sound is. Has me pondering my next upgrade... cross overs or new speakers. She seems to like the bright sound... I know crossover upgrades will help the musical aspect of my speakers... ahh this damn rabbit hole.

[steveinaz]

Re-scanning after adding music has to be done. There's no auto scan that I'm aware of. A scan for "new or changed music" should only take less than a minute. The "Clear and re-scan" takes a lot longer. You only need to do the latter on rare occasions.

Sounds like the app you're using is flawed.

Others have debated with me on this--but I still believe that the music being read from a Hard Drive sounds smoother than from a CD player. I believe it has to do with the method of reading the data....

[heiney9]

You always have to rescan after adding new music to your database. How does SQB know you added music? Just because you rip it to the HD, doesn't mean SQB knows it's there. The ripping has nothing to do with the SQB so you have to "tell" the software (by asking it to scan) there is new music added. Although the newer version of the software may have an auto feature, I'm not sure though.

Scan for new music not the entire database scan. As Steve said it should take less than a couple minutes.

[steveinaz]

As an example, I burned 2 new CD's to my library this weekend. The Re-scan for "new or changed" scan took like 25 seconds to add the 2 CD's. I currently have 387 CD's in my library, all flac.

[jaycam]

There is an auto scan feature buried in the settings. I have mine set to scan every night...I some times upload music remotely. I don't remember where the setting is but I can check later tonight when I get home.

[steveinaz]

Cool...I didn't know that. You're running LMS right? Of course this would require the computer being on 24/7.

[jaycam]

Okay, here you go!

First, launch LMS Control Panel
Click the "Advanced" tab
Click the "Advanced Settings" button; your web browser will open
Click the "Advanced" tab
Select "Rescan Library" from the drop down menu
Set "Rescan Timer" to on
Select your rescan time
Select your rescan type

You're done!

[heiney9]

That's a good idea, but if it's set to scan everyday at 10PM and you put a bunch of music in at say 10AM and want to hear it, you still have to rescan it manually to hear it instantly. But that is a good option for someone like myself who is waaaaayyyyyyy behind on scanning to add a few discs each night and then the system will automatically update the scan. Otherwise I see no use for it, or necessarily helping Drenis when he wants to scan and listen.

H9

[jaycam]

I agree. I would be nice it would actually monitor the folder and add music to the library as it's added to the folder. It doesn't solve the problem of wanting to listen to music you just ripped or added right after adding it...guess that's why they offer the manual scan :-)