After happily using a Purcell/Delius since 2001, I just purchased a Rossini (non-apex).
My prior headphone signal path: smallgreencomputer sonictransporter i9 running roon to Sonore signature LE streamer to Sonore UltraDigital to Purcell to Delius to Placette Active Preamp to Burson Solist 3xp in volume control bypass mode.
In my new configuration, I ran the fiber from the sonictransporter to an FMC and FMC via short ethernet to the Rossini. Then Rossini to Placette Active preamp to amp.
There are a number of other ways I could set this up.
I guess my first question is how does the streamer in the Rossini compare to the outboard Sonore Signature LE. If i go the direction of continuing to use the Sonore, I would output USB from the Sonore to the Rossini.
In general, I’d be interested in opinions about the various signal options for input to the Rossini.
So far, Ethernet in sounds pretty awesome and is a substantial improvement over the Purcell/Delius.
Jonathan is spot on. Our engineers believe that the network interface is superior and that is our stated position. But we provide a range of inputs to give customers the flexibility to connect whatever source equipment they want to in whatever way they prefer. There are endless products and permutations so it’s impossible for us to advise on individual cases, but you will receive plenty of helpful advice from other customers here on the forum. By all means compare for yourself, at the end of the day it’s your opinion that counts.
For the record we always use the network interface when streaming in the demonstration room at the factory in Cambridge. I am just on my way home from dCS Varèse launches in China and Taiwan and we used the network interface for all demos and A-B comparisons with Vivaldi.