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Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek
1 Level
709 Review
43 Karma

Review on Douk Audio U2 PRO XMOS XU208 Digital Interface - USB To TOSLINK/Coaxial/Optical/HDMI IIS Adapter For DAC, Preamp & Amplifier | PCM & DSD256 Support by Michael Moulton

Revainrating 5 out of 5

This USB to Digital interface is invaluable for a number of reasons.

Prior to purchasing this model, I was not aware that such an accessory even existed. I was having problems with noise and other factors with the USB input running from my desktop PC to my FX-Audio DAC X6 DAC unit. I had almost given up on it when I came across this Douk Audio U2 Pro advertisement on revain. It features a much higher conversion rate than my FX-Audio DAC. My FX Audio DAC had a top conversion rate of 24 Bit-192 kHz, whereas this Douk Audio U2 Pro USB to Digital interface has a top conversion rate of 32 Bit-384 kHz.After ordering it, I connected it by plugging it into my USB input on my PC, and then running a Digital Coax cable from the U2 Pro to my FX Audio DAC. The result - I was absolutely delighted in the sound transformation. Any noise was completely removed - absolute silence now - but more so, the sound reproduction qualities improved substantially. The improvements were substantial enough that it was discernible immediately with a warmer, less digital tonality, yet the music was very dynamic.So for folks who might be having USB issues on their PC, placing an item such as this U2 in the sound path between your PC/Lap-Top (connected via USB) and a DAC or amp (running either an optical or digital coax cable from the U2), you might be in heaven.Douk also makes a less expensive version known as just the U2. That particular model has a conversion rate of 24 Bit-192 kHz. Either way, both of the Douk models are inexpensive, yet they really punch far above their weight, considering what they do. SMSL also makes a smaller one with a 24 Bit-192 kHz conversion rate.Again, I was not prepared for the wonderful audio qualities I began experiencing once I inserted this device in my path between a PC and my DAC. There are so many different ways that you could connect this device - although you must remember that the device must plug into a USB input on whatever you are using as a source, and then you have a choice of running either an optical cord or a digital coax cord to whatever input device you select (DAC, Preamp, Receiver, Amp, etc.). I'm surprised that not more companies make devices such as this (at a reasonable price, that is).I don't know what else I can add here. These wonderful devices (2 of them made by Douk) may (can) solve many an issue involving with USB inputs on various devices. And for the small amount of money you expend, the results far overshadow the small amount of cash you may have expended.As is always the case, personal reviews are subjective. Your mileage may obviously vary. For me, this U2 Pro (and I also purchased the lesser expensive U2) made a huge improvement.

Pros
  • Semiconductor Products
Cons
  • It doesn't work with some older DACs or amplifiers