Any B&W 802 D3 users ?

[GuillaumeB]

Without meaning to hijack this thread are you considering the ST2 processor from Trinnov? How are you thinking about connecting this to the Devialet, in other words where in the chain will this sit? 

Guillaume

I am contemplating the purchase of a second hand Amethyst. I still need to make some tests to decide whether it will or not replace the DAC of Devialet. You have mentioned having tested it with an analog connection to the Devialet to your satisfaction, so this might be a very good option. ThierryNK who is an audiophile reviewer and an active promoter of Trinnov solutions, especially on French fora, has motivated me to test the AES/EBU digital input into the Devialet, therefore shunting the Amethyst's DAC. Not sure yet. I also need to check the streaming possibilities of the Amethyst, as they have a very good reputation too.
What is really motivating me is the room correction. I am so pleased with the Devialet in connection to the B&W in terms of SQ that I really need a solution to manage my room's reflection in the bass range.

That's interesting because, for me, this combo really came alive when using an analogue output from the Amethyst. I don't really have an explanation for this but I'd be interested in hearing how you get on.

On the streaming front I simply installed BubbleUPnP server on my QNAP and used the Trinnov as an OpenHome renderer (using Linn Kazoo as a controller). At the time I made some comparisons between the totaldac and the Trinnov streamer both outputting via AES/EBU to the Devialet master (i.e. with room correction switched off) and there wasn't much in it. HOWEVER this was before my totaldac d1 server was upgraded, so I suspect this would no longer be the case. With that said I would say that the streamer part of the Amethyst is very competent from a SQ point of view.

I think the point to bear in mind with the analogue out route is that the Devialet ADC is extremely capable and VERY transparent to the point that it doesn't really matter if you are chaining DACs, however counter intuitive it may feel! It bothered me slightly but it sounded fantastic!

Anyway when you get your Amethyst we can start a new thread.   I think the Amethyst is hugely underrated and unfortunately in the UK at least not well marketed. 

Guillaume