CX +EX with dcs Bartok DAC

[Edward]

Greetings,

Long term Antipodes enthusiast but new to the forum.

My current digital source set-up is Antipodes CX>EX>USB out>Weiss DAC204>preamp>amp>speakers.

I use Roon for both streaming music (Tidal, Qobuzz) and of course playback of my local files on the ssd in the CX.

I’m contemplating replacing the Weiss DAC with the purchase of a used dcs Bartok streamer/DAC.

The main issue: I’m uncertain how to connect the Antipodes gear to the dcs Bartok streaming DAC.

Perusing the audiophile forums I find the following:

CX>EX>USB out>dcs Bartok.

If I understand this method correctly it would imply that the EX is the endpoint and that I would not get some of the “benefits” (roon ready, MQA) of the Bartok?

2. CX>Network direct out>Bartok.

My layperson understanding is that the CX would be the Roon core/Server of the local files and the Bartok would handle all streamed sources like Tidal, Qobuzz.

This method would completely remove the EX from the playback chain and is my preferred method (if it works!) as it simplifies my system.

In addition it would allow me to repurpose the EX as a standalone server/renderer in an infrequently visited vacation home paired with some KEF LS50W speakers for non-critical listening.

Has anyone tried this or is able to confirm this method will work?

3. CX<>Network switch<>dcs Bartok.

A web forum said that one MUST use a Network Switch between the CX & Bartok in order to have the Bartok handle the streamed music. If I understood their argument it was that without a network switch the Bartok has no way to access the internet for streamed music.

For purposes of system simplicity (one less component/power cord) I’d prefer not to have to use a network switch but can do so if its necessary.

Any thoughts or comments are gladly welcomed.

[kennyb123]

Nice to have options! I would honestly wait until you have the Bartok and then let your ears decide. Everything matters in this hobby but something that matters more to one listener may matter less to another.

I wouldn’t rule out a good switch as I’m now convinced it’s as important as a good power conditioner but but there could be more important things to address first.

[MarkCole]

We would say that the best performance from your CX/EX stack would be to use USB to the Bartok, only you can decide which sounds best.

@Edward

If I understand this method correctly it would imply that the EX is the endpoint and that I would not get some of the “benefits” (roon ready, MQA) of the Bartok?

As above, you could call them benefits, or not. You are assuming that the endpoint in the Bartok is better than the EX endpoint; only you can decide that via listening.

@Edward

My layperson understanding is that the CX would be the Roon core/Server of the local files and the Bartok would handle all streamed sources like Tidal, Qobuzz.

No, all streaming is via the CX Roon Server, Roon is logged into the server on the CX and you use Roon Remote. Note, if you use dCS Mosaic, then the streaming of Tidal and Qobuz is bypassing the CX server and totally negates the benefits of having a server.

@Edward

This method would completely remove the EX from the playback chain and is my preferred method (if it works!) as it simplifies my system.

It will simplify the system and enable you to use the EX in another system. Many clients use EX standalone and are very happy with the performance.

@Edward

A web forum said that one MUST use a Network Switch between the CX & Bartok in order to have the Bartok handle the streamed music. If I understood their argument it was that without a network switch the Bartok has no way to access the internet for streamed music.

If you are using the CX as the server with Roon, the streamed music is coming from the CX, the Bartok only needs to be connected to the CX via ethernet. The Bartok will recieve an IP address when connected to the CX Direct Stream exactly the same as the EX, enabling Mosaic for volume control for example.

[Edward]

While I appreciate your input my questions are more related to “will this method work” vs “which method sounds better”.

I’m a bit tentative purchasing an expensive component not knowing whether any of these methods will work.

Well I’m a believer in using good power conditioning so I may explore a switch once I settle the threshold questions posed.

[MarkCole]

I believe I answered you above, let me know if anything is unclear

[Edward]

@MarkCole

If you are using the CX as the server with Roon, the streamed music is coming from the CX, the Bartok only needs to be connected to the CX via ethernet. The Bartok will recieve an IP address when connected to the CX Direct Stream exactly the same as the EX, enabling Mosaic for volume control for example.

Mark this is extremely helpful . So I now understand that I can simply connect CX>ethernet cable>dcs Bartok which in theory is my preferred method as it’s the most straightforward.

@MarkCole

No, all streaming is via the CX Roon Server, Roon is logged into the server on the CX and you use Roon Remote.

Note, if you use dCS Mosaic, then the streaming of Tidal and Qobuz is bypassing the CX server and totally negates the benefits of having a server.

if I understand you correctly it’s "preferred " to have the CX/Roon server handle the streaming (tidal, Qobuz) rather than letting the Mosaic app process the streaming.

@MarkCole

As above, you could call them benefits, or not. You are assuming that the endpoint in the Bartok is better than the EX endpoint; only you can decide that via listening.

Valid point Mark. The EX may still rule the day. I will certainly try that method.

[MarkCole]

@Edward

if I understand you correctly it’s "preferred " to have the CX/Roon server handle the streaming (tidal, Qobuz) rather than letting the Mosaic app process the streaming.

Absolutely, sound will be better, and it simplifies use. There isn’t a need to use Mosaic at all, sans volume control, not a fan of Mosaic TBH, the physical remote works better, this assumes you will be using volume control on the Bartok.

[Edward]

@MarkCole

There isn’t a need to use Mosaic at all, sans volume control, not a fan of Mosaic TBH, the physical remote works better, this assumes you will be using volume control on the Bartok.

Good to know as I wasn’t keen to use Mosaic. I’m satisfied with the Roon remote interface. I’d set up the Bartok for fixed volume output into my Conrad Johnson pre-amp and occasionally use the bartoks front panel rotary volume knob for headphone use.

As always kudos to the Antipodes team for such tremendous support.

[Telmi]

I replaced a K50(Gen 2) and Bricasti M3 DAC with a CX(G3) and Linn Selekt (Stereo Organik), and I am very pleased with the result.

Firstly I was running with the K50 as both server and streamer out via AES to the Bricasti but later moved to using the M3’s onboard streamer board via direct ethernet connection. from the K50 which I preferred (roon or UPnP/Minimserver).
The Bricasti M3 is a great product .btw for anyone considering one.

About a year ago I replaced this setup with a CX (Gen3) and a Linn Selekt Edition [ via ethernet from the CX], so its a similar use-case in my Lineout configuration with a stereo Organik DAC module, to the CX/Bartok architecture discussed here by @Edward .

I run a BJC Cat6 cable from the CX to the Selekt - with the Organik DAC and with careful attention to power and networking this combination is excellent , whether Roon or Minimserver/UPNP via the Linn app.
I have a Buffalo/Pink Faun switch for audio, powered by Farad (5v to clock) and Plixir(12v) LPS’.

I did briefly try a USB connection from the CX into the Selekt but it didn’t have the tonality, scale and definition I am used to in the ethernet configuration.

I did home-demo a Bartok(Apex) at home a couple of years back before I acquired the K50/Bricasti; this was with a SonicTransporter i5 server.

The Bartok Apex is also a great component possibly the best I have heard for my ‘mid-range’ system, although at the time it was not in my budget - I prefer the wider functionality and upgradeability of the Selekt which I bought with the Katalyst DAC and subsequently upgraded yo Organik - so a phased spend and progression.

My speakers are also Antipodean - Serhan+Swift Mu2 standpoints made in Sydney, although I am in the UK