MiniDSP SHD Studio DIRAC room correction processor/streamer

[@wojciechczupta]

getting better and better results from Dirac. One thing for sure - if you want good base, you will need good preamp anyway. Thank you Hans.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

my pleasure

[@davidfriedman5154]

Thank you HB for identifying and explaining high value gems like this unit. Purchased this based on HB video. This device made the single biggest improvement to my system - more than any other component. Took away glare and muddiness. Sharper imaging. Less fatigue. Not practical to add room treatments in my living room, so this is a welcome solution.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

👍🏼

[@jaaptube9]

I received the SHD Studio 4 weeks ago. After a lot of testing and trying to get the desired room curve I'm now about settled. Sold my former 1.300 euro network streamer/lps set. Really appreciate the sound quality of the SHD Studio. It's as promised :-)

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Enjoy the music

[@behzadhadyzonouz9843]

I have a technics sl700 DAC/streamer/SACD with digital and analog output and digital input. Is it possible to add the MiniDSP to my current setup?

[@danielgrip1996]

Might I ask what brand/model your old streamer was?

[@zzz2496]

FINALLY, the review that I've been waiting for for few weeks already !! Thanks, Hans !!

[@bobbyhartanto3210]

Damir Handoyo Halo mas Damir, ini minidsp yg mas bilang di video nya pak Agus Artsonica soal room correction yg lebih baik dari sonarworks reference ya?

[@LeoMakes]

Fantastic, detailed and fact-based video with no fluff. Thanks for making this!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

🙏🏽

[@IsaacChew]

I am using the SHD Studio. The built in streamer is pretty good!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

👍🏼

[@johnmarchington3146]

Hans, what a fantastic review. I has got me really excited and I'm going to do some more research on it. Many thanks.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

My pleasure

[@barrybrennan2135]

Nice review, Hans. I had the DDRC-24 unit with Dirac. I could not stop tinkering with the damn thing, never entirely satisfied with any one curve. And so happily returned to a more conventional set-up. I must say, I didn't like what it did to the mid-band upwards too.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

The SHD is of a different quality all together and the signal remains in the digital domain.

[@barrybrennan2135]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Yes, I've seen the spec looks better.

[@HenkjanOlthuis]

have you tried limiting Dirac to only the lowe octaves?

[@chrisfluke459]

Sorry, I always seem to ask questions on old videos! But, I was curious if you had any opinions on the SHD Studio vs a node, using both as a preamp/streaming transport? I have a node (2021) with a Pardo LPS upgrade and the only things I don’t love about it, is the lack of Dirac (used to own C658) and I understand the volume is lossy. I’m looking to upgrade to a digital preamp/network streamer that handles digital volume attenuation in a lossless manner. My rudimentary understanding is 24bit vs 32bit architecture. Any input would be greatly appreciated! (Also considering Lumin U2 mini for twice the price, or possibly ifi Neo Stream for just a few hundred more). Thanks Hans! Love the channel, as always!!

[@clothyardshafts]

The thing that I like about the SHD Studio and Dirac is that my speakers still sound like my speakers. The upper frequencies of my Revel Ultima Salon2s remain untouched and the lower mid-range and lower frequencies are more balanced and my REL s/812 subwoofer is far better integrated into the mid to lower range of the sound experience. But, all in all, my speakers remain my speakers. I can tell the difference in effect because, in my media room, I have an Anthem processor and the ARC room correction made my mid-fi Axiom surround sound speakers sound like a set of hi-fi speakers - in other words, the Axioms don’t sound so Axiom-like anymore - in my book, that’s s good thing!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

agreed

[@lancecage7320]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel would you explain the new MQAir codec please ?🙏

[@soulchorea]

I would love to use something like this in my home studio; it doesn't sound awful for a small room, but could definitely use some help! I like the idea of having it in the chain between my recording interface and the speakers (powered)

[@servantsochrist]

Download REW wizard to find response of room. Then use a program for sound output to add effects. You don't need that

[@showbread9366]

@@servantsochrist what’s the point of adding effects for room correction?

[@jaaptube9]

I've been looking for digital room correction for some time. Had a DEQ2496 for a while. Fiddled with ffmpeg parametric EQ. A few months ago I had a Auralic Aries with parametric EQ for a few weeks. So I bought the Minidsp SHD Studio after seeing this review. I have the SHD Studio for three weeks now. Tried a lot of different curves. The most basic are the almost straight and slightly sloping curves. After a bit of listening a straight sloping curve sounds good. But when I turn Dirac off the music livens up a lot and I hear more "air". So for me a straight sloping curve is to severe. I want to keep more of the caracter of the speakers. The other extreme is to use Dirac only to get the bass around 50Hz in check. Suppressing the bass around 50Hz (in my room) really helps a lot and is the reason I will continue using Dirac. But Dirac can do more. With Dirac I can get a better sound scape between the speakers. Ware as with Dirac off the music is focussed slightly to the right. So I've been looking for a curve that keeps the bass in check and centers the music but preserves the sense of air. I think I found this by a curve that reduces the bass than follows the measured response up to 5kHz and no correction above 5kHz.

[@peterstevens9274]

How did you find the sound quality (without eq) of the MiniDSP SHD Studio vs the Auralic Aries Femto? I have the Aries now and am worried the shd would be a significant step back in audio quality ... higher jitter, psu noise etc ... thanks

[@jaaptube9]

@@peterstevens9274 Hi, I've had the Aries Femto for a while (with SBooster). The SHD Studio sounds at least as good to me. So certainly not a step back in sound quality.

[@peterstevens9274]

Jaap Deventer are you using the SHD Studio with its stock switching Power supply or your SBooster? Does the SBooster improve the audio a quality of your SHD Studio?? Thanks

[@tomhill4003]

Some of this new digital technology has my head spinning. I have a vintage ADCOM set up, and the preamp does have a loop where this (maybe?) could be incorporated. Please provide more content on how dsp can be integrated into vintage set-ups. The piece on the Wiim was great in this regard.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

If you browse through my videos or search KZbin for 'Beekhuyzen [subject]' you will find shiploads of info on digital audio.

[@tomhill4003]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel thank you!!!

[@priyangh]

Hi Hans, you said in the video you would sacrifice the MQA for Dirac. But for example you can plug in MiniDSP 2x4HD with room correction after the DAC unfolds the MQA. Then you have MQA and Dirac room correction, right? My setup: Streamer + DAC Aurender A10 (analog output) > MiniDSP 2x4HD with Dirac > Naim Nait amp Regards Priyange

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

If you go through analog again you can. That will add time smearing of both the AD and DA conversion, throwing out the child with the bath water.

[@DJURBANBG]

Hi Hans , i want to feed my Dutch and Dutch 8c monitors with AES digital signal , i can use the SHD Studio as an interface and directly plug it into them while playing and mixing music in my computer DAW .. right ? Thanks

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes you can

[@kubjohal]

Thanks for taking the time out to answer my questions - greatly appreciated! Can I be cheeky and ask one more: have you experimented with changing the power supply (is there any benefit) or are you using the one supplied ? Thanks,

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes but the supplied psi is the best I found.

[@perkunast9680]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel I read an interesting article, where they are moving to a switching power supply. They said the distortions associated with them, were in a freq you don't hear.Linear power used massive transformers that created magnetic fields, that can cause all kinds of problems.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Just listen and judge for yourself.

[@jorgenskadhauge7020]

Hi Hans, it could be nice to have some thoughts of SQ of the SHD with build in AKM DACS. One can just say that Minidsp looks like soon being Maxidsp, bravo!

[@guyadam650]

Thankyou for all your work, the presentation of your knowledge and experience has been extremely useful and interesting. I see you occasionally use the MiniDSP in your set up 1B, would I be right in thinking that it’s a trade off between the negative effects of another box/cable in the signal path versus the positive effects of the Dirac EQ/Impulse correction, Crossover/Bass management that the SHD Studio brings? Also do you think the version with analogue outputs would be good enough to replace a dedicated DAC? I guess this would depend on how bad the acoustic environment is (in my case a rectangular living room) and of course the quality of the other system components - for the sake of discussion assume the components to be at a similar level to your set up 1.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

When I bought the Ayre amp and PMC loudspeakers, there was no need anymore for DIRAC. The gain was less than the cure. In a normally balanced setup 1b, say with a €5000 amp and ditto speakers, I probably still would be using Dirac.

[@magnush9229]

Nice review! Did you compare the MiniDSP SHD box to doing in on computer, by letting Roon play through the audio-output that Dirac creates? I play directly from computer through toslink (HiFi and computer is not on same grid and 100% galvanic separated), so feels more natural to do it on computer in that case. Btw, I get no additional sound quality from Allo USBridge as Roon endpoint, but that probably depends on the DAC and jitter handling (I have the RME ADI-2 DAC). I have heard people with Chord DACs saying the same also (even Rob Watts claims that).

[@aerofart]

What would be the benefit of using this unit versus a DIRAC-capable AVR like the NAD T-758 to deliver DIRAC processed signals to a 2.x setup? I can only think that the MiniDSP would offer greater flexibility/options when dealing with multiple subwoofers. I realize I don't have a comprehensive understanding of the details, because that would involve having intimate experience with not only the hardware components, but also the software associated with each of the two scenarios I refer to.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Dirac is the same in both. But the MiniSPD gives the option to use a separate DAC and a separate amp for those that want to.

[@larsv6144]

As always, great informative videos Hans. Question, can the following setup be connected : Bluesound Node 2i -> MiniDSP SHD Studio -> DAC -> integrated amp? Would the Dirac still work and will MQA from the Node 2i be passed through the MiniDSP to be decoded in the DAC? I like to bypass the DAC in the Node 2i, but like Dirac room correction. The NAD C658 is another option (with XTZ Edge amp), but I like to have the possibility to use a DAC of choice or a tube DAC (Musical Paradise MP-D1). Dirac, BluOS and MQA (Tidal) is a must. So it is hard to combine this.

[@mat_v]

Been down this rabbit hole, MQA will not be enabled if there is any alteration to the digital signal, even volume attenuation will cause it to break. Hope this helps!

[@audiorick841]

Thank you Hans. Your enthusiasm for this unit always lingered in my memory. I finally forked out and have a Studio version on the way. As you mention, it has 12v DC smps external power supply. Do you know if it would benefit from ordering a linear low noise power supply or if there is so much processing and correction in this unit that the power supply will not make a difference?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I personally don’t but there are those….

[@sherpadelgatos]

thank you for the great review as usual. this looks like just what i've been looking for too. i am curious to see how the dac in the analog version of the shd sounds.

[@sherpadelgatos]

@@stopthefomo hey thanks for the response. exactly the feedback i was looking for on the +analog version

[@kaijorgensen8666]

First off, thank you for all of your work which has helped me tremendously! My question is regarding the connection of two REL S5 SHO subwoofers with the SHD Studio. If it makes sense I intend to connect the SHD Studio between my music player (Sony HapZ1ES) via usb to the dsp then to Emotiva XDA-2 dac/preamp via usb (if possible). From the Emotiva out to my two main speakers. However from there I'm not sure about connecting the two subs. I assume a second dac would be required. In the the video (at 4:04) you mention how to do this but I am unable to understand your comment which may not apply since I am using a separate dac. If you don't mind please clarify how to incorporate the two subs.The REL's have the following connections: 1) Low-Level Left channel Phono Input: Used to connect low-level to the output of a preamplifier, integrated amplifier or receiver. (For home cinema, use .1/LFE input). 2) Low-Level Right channel Phono Input: Used to connect low-level to the output of a preamplifier, integrated amplifier or receiver. (For home cinema, use .1/LFE input). 3) .1/LFE Phono Input: Used to connect to the .1/LFE output from a 5.1 amplifier of processor 4) High-Level Neutrik® Speakon® Socket: Use to connect high-level to the main front amplifier speaker terminals. Note: This is how I connect them currently. Thank you again.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You might watch this weeks video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y2bTlpuKhL-YjJY. I would prefer to hook up the subs to the speaker terminals of the amp, go to the setup I describe in de video and then run DIRAC.

[@Altsouza64]

Hi Kai, I think the Han's reply did not fully answer your question. Rel recomends to Conect their Subs with speaker level signal from you amp (yes , from your amps power outputs along with your speakes). But, In this case, you loose the individual Dsp setings ( to the mains and to the subs) you would apply using the SHD Studio. So you are right , you have to use Two Dacs, one goes to your mains Speakers and another to the Sub (or subs). In these case you will be able to apply diferent Dsp setings to the mains Speakers and to the Subs, integrating them better. I just dont know if the Dacs must be the same Brand/Model. Thats a question Hans can answer....

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I did fully answer the question. Use the lp’s outputs, then setup the sub as described. When that’s ok, have Dirac work in the total. This gives better integration.

[@Altsouza64]

If you have Dirac to Correct Both Mains+Subs together (as one full range speaker) , you loose the posibility to Correct the Subs individualy using Rew (Or using Dirac - Can it?)!! IMHO... Also, as a I said, only REL subs does "High Level" conection "Right". All other Subs , like the very Good SVS, lacks High Level conections. In another matter, Iwould appreciatte you could explain to me is if I Conect the Subs individualy using 3/4 outputs, Dirac does full (all 4 speakers/subs individualy) bass management correction??? I did not see the Sub labels in the Dirac screen, so I supose it does only do "together" (as one full range speaker) correction!!!. Thanks Luiz

[@danielgrip1996]

Hans, would you consider the minidsp reviewed here a good choice in 2024 for replacing a wiim pro as streamer connected to external dac? Better than a Bluenode132 as I found the difference (Wiim - Node) miniscule (both used as streamer/transport not dac).

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Absolutely and you have proper room correct as a bonus.

[@colinwilby8803]

Another great video Hans. One question, My setup is ifi Zen Stream, Topping D70s MQA, DAC, Topping A90 feeding headphones or via preamp output to Atoll AM100se and Revel M16s.Could I insert the mini dsp after the stream for room correction?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes, you will loose MQA rendering but since you loose a lot of the room trouble, the end result will often be better, depending on the room.

[@AjuVignesh]

Hi Hans. Excellent video. Is it still recommended in 2024?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Absolutely

[@AjuVignesh]

Thank you very much.

[@duarteteixeiradebarros3555]

Hans - I've been implementing some of your recommendations with great satisfaction (sbooster, uptone regen,..). Would like to ask you two simple things: 1/ when to compared the SoTm with the Minidsp did you use the Sbooster with the latter? 2/ do you think the Minidsp is superior to a Auralic Aires with Sooster+Uptone Regen? I have a irregular room and a demanding wife so dsp might help a lot. Thanks!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I use the power supply that came with the MiniDSP, the sBooster gave no improvement here. Whether what you should choose, I can't say.

[@mikasalonoja2804]

Excellent video! There was one aspect un-answered, though: if most of the presented setups you would use SHD Studio for volume control. Doesn't that deteriorate the sound since, unless you listen at full volume, you would send a digitally attenuated i.e. lower resolution signal to the external DAC? And I also wonder if this is different for the SHD that has DAC + volume control in a single box?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

That hasn't been a problem for years now. Watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_MYoelh5hjbtE.

[@mikasalonoja2804]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks, good info!

[@ryanclements6031]

Thanks for the review Hans. Based on the specs would you expect SQ differences between the DDRC-22D model and the SHD Studio model?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have only reviewed the SHD Stúdió so I can’t say.

[@RichardKalmeijer]

I am still intrigued by this video and your enthousiasm about the improvement in sound quality. One question still bothers me though: If I high quality audio components, with high quality speaker cables and interlinks, good power filtering, the EtherREGEN to clean the network signal and glass fiber for the galvanic separation (with an opticalModule that also improves the incoming network stream) and I follow the qdvices on the speaker placement, what is the miniDSP then actually correcting?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

It will, to a certain degree, correct for room modes, and the resulting standing waves. In a perfect acoustical environment this will bring only small improvements but who lives in a perfect acoustical environment?

[@orisher11]

Thank you Hans. 👍🏻

[@Simplyveej]

Great video, Hans! When connecting this unit between the (A) Sotm txusb ultra (which in turn is fed by the sms 200 ultra neo) and (B) the myTek DAC+ : I am guessing you connected (A) to the usb 2.0 port of the minidsp shd, and (B) to one of the spdif out ports of the minidsp shd. Am I correct? In case you used the sms 200 ultra neo directly (without the txusb ultra), I had the same question. Did you connect it to the usb 2.0 port of the minidsp studio?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes

[@Simplyveej]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thank you!

[@wojciechczupta]

Hans, could you test SHD as a preamp? (bypass your preamp and adjust volume through SHD) - would that make sense? If this is something that makes sense I'd probably go with full size SHD, put it in between my Mediacenter (USB) and DAC (SPDIF) remove my preamp and connect speakers (active) directly to DAC xlrs. Or maybe even try to use DAC inside SHD and connect subwoofer directly to SHD. If SHD as "sort of preamp" isn't a good choice, then I'd probably go with just SHD Studio for room corrections only

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Sure. I use it that way sometimes when needed in a test. It has a very good volume control. You're only limited to digital sources, of course.

[@wojciechczupta]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel does it have potential of replacing a hi-end DAC to benefit from very clean signal path? (I'm running on Schiit Yggdrasil) I'm using only digital sources and my current preamp is Schiit Freya (it may sound like not so high end partner, but with good tubes, it does the job)

[@catchacoolbreeze]

Happy New Year Hans! Could this be used to improve the sound quality of my NAD C368 w/BluOS module? Or should I consider the miniDSP Power to replace the NAD c368 entirely? I primarily use Tidal. Thank you so much!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You can use the SHD Studio in stead of the BluOS module since it is also a streamer.

[@k979khz]

Thank you for a really great review (As always)! Since you own this device.. Have you tried the headphone jack? Is the CS43130 Dac/amp-chip usable for serious listening?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I don't like listening to headphones and thus are no reference at all where HP listening is concerned. Sorry..

[@mathewcrick]

10:52 is there an advantage with that approach if you still have the passive crossovers in the speakers (assuming obviously you connect the HF amp to HF speaker terminals, and etc)

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

It might, I don't know your speakers.

[@DrAlanWeinstein]

Just found your channel. Thanks for this great review. I'm considering the SHD instead of the Studi, because I want to use Dirac with my Merrill Turntable with Eminent Technology ET II arm and an Ortofon 2M Black LVB 250 cartridge to an Audible Illusions IIIA tube pre-amp. I could not find where you list your reference equipment, but was looking to see if you reviewed any CD transports to use with the SHD. Thank you!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

my pleasure.

[@NateMacT]

Exciting stuff Hans!! Could you please clarify; higher performer than NAD's implementation? I'm looking at the NAD C658

[@rotaks1]

I am looking at the NAD C658 too! Great question.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

The DIRAC processing won't differ but the quality of the DAC's and amp's I use in my setup 1 is clearly higher than those in my NAD T758v3 as it should at over 5 times the price. I don't know the quality of the C658 but in general NAD delivers a very good sound quality for the money.

[@NateMacT]

Thanks so much Hans! Sounds like I should just go with NAD's Dirac implementation rather than add the SHD to a NAD integrated amp. Thanks again.@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel

[@rotaks1]

@@NateMacT NAS C658 is also Roon ready and full MQA. Sounds like a winner.

[@prebendamsgaardthomsen4728]

Hello Hans, Great reviews, thanks a lot! While the NAD T758v3 AV-receiver comes with both Bluesound-streaming incl. MQA-handling - and Dirac Live, how does MQA and Dirac Live function together here? Best Regards Preben

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

They don’t. See the video

[@prebendamsgaardthomsen4728]

Dear Hans. I watched Your video - several times :-). In the meantime I made an inquiry at the local NAD-dealer, Hifiklubben in Denmark, how their experience were about Dirac Live and MQA working together with reference to two products on sale: the surroundreceiver NAD T758 v3 and the preamp NAD C658. Here it was claimed that Dirac and MQA worked well together (meaning that Dirac do not compromize the MQA unfolding/rendering. I then contacted Technical/Support Service at Hifiklubben Denmark, on how NAD get around this issue in their products, while (forgive me) at the same time referring to Your video here, on the allegation of no succesful merging between Dirac and MQA. Here is the answer I received today from Hifiklubben Denmark: "I have taken the case on directly to NAD, who have answered as follows" (my translation from danish) "What Hans is pointing out is that the Mini DSP is not an MQA device. The reason that the Mytec DAC will not decode MQA sent by the Mini DSP is because the Mini DSP has modified the source and stripped away the flag that tells the Mytec that the stream is MQA encoded. With NAD this is quite a different story as everything is handled in one unit. It is the complete playback chain, analog input (in the studio) to analog output (feeding your speaker) that MQA certifies." (Precisely cited from NAD's answer) "So the problem in the test is exactly the external DAC" (my translation from danish). This then set me back a little confused..... Best Regards Preben

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

@@prebendamsgaardthomsen4728 The answers from Dali and Hifiklubben is correct. The T758v3 does both DIRAC and MQA. The MiniDSP only does DIRAC and will not pass on a signal that will be rendered by a MQA DAC. As I said I keep looking for a DIRAC/MQA solution 'at the level of my setup 1', In my T758v3 surround set it is already working. It is confusing at first and I should have been clearer. Luckily you are served well by your dealer.

[@prebendamsgaardthomsen4728]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannelThank You for clearing it all up

[@Colin-yh7oy]

Would love to try a Dirac processor in the "tape loop" of my integrated amp, so covering all (2-channel) music sources, including vinyl. But I wonder how well it would preserve sound quality of good analogue sources; DSP works in the digital domain and would impose its own A-to-D/D-to-A chain, which unless of very good quality could undermine a high-spec analogue front end.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

The question if the cure is worse than the disease can only be answered if the impact of the disease is quantified. I would just try to get a good Dirac processor in loan.

[@claudedickson9859]

Suppose you have the woofer of your speakers in a transmission line (TL). One of the issues with TL is that they all have a spike at some frequency that needs to be damped. The challenge is finding that frequency and damping it. Damping is usually done by stuffing the TL with some material to absorb that frequency. This often becomes trial and error and the damping material in the TL reduces the volume at which the woofers can play. Instead of damping the TL, can one use the SHD to correct for the TL frequency spike at part of the room correction, thus avoiding the need to tune the TL?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

That will work to a certain degree. But why not do the Dirac measurements to see what frequency should be damped and than correct that as far as you can. Then use Dirac for the rest. It's always wiser to correct the problem where it is caused.

[@wojciechczupta]

Hans, so would you consider using SHD for anything more than room correction in ~25k EUR system (replacing also preamp and DAC)? Or it would be rother misalliance?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have no hands-on experience with the SHD, I own the SHD Studio that has no DAC's. That way I can choose higher quality DAC's. It's living in my setup 1 without degrading the sound and solving room acoustics problems.

[@wojciechczupta]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel eventually I ordered Studio version. Thanks for piece of advice

[@IsaacChew]

Hi Hans. Would you find time to review the SHD model thus using the minidsp as a dac as well. For those of us with active speakers, the SHD can be a one box streamer/dirac/dac/preamp solution. And no one I know has reviewed the SHD for an application like this. Thank you.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You will see the SHD Amp first.

[@iansharp1171]

Excellent! I think this an area I must get in to. Very exciting.

[@ChilamXboy]

Hi Hans, I'm trying to see how I can integrate the SHD Studio to my set up purely for room correction. I have an Arcam ST60 with a built-in DAC that I use for streaming directly connecting through XLR to my integrated amplifier (MA5300). I'm wondering where I should add the SHD since I would prefer to stream music (mainly TIDAL) through the ST60 and use its DAC. Should the set up be: ST60 ---> SHD studio (via optical) ------> MA5300 (via XLR)? Thank you!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Both is possible, why not ry both and choose the best sounding option?

[@tedwasileff512]

I like they way you explain stuff. I was thinking of purchasing this product,however I don’t want to buy a DAC also. Would I be able to just connect to my AVR (Denon x3600) and use the DAC in the receiver Thank You.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Sure, no problem.

[@jakobgooijer]

Last week i heard dirac in a seperate NAD c658 and c298 + B&W 800 series combination. The results are truly amazing, so now I'm curious if the mini DSP is a good choice for me using Qobuz. In my set-up I think the DSP should be implemented this way : miniDSP ->MUTEC MC3+usb -> DAC -> pre amp ?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Correct

[@jakobgooijer]

Thanks

[@jaredcrandall9145]

Your videos are extremely insightful! You said that the shd studio can have one digital out with high pass and the other with low pass, can the shd bigger brother send a high/low pass through the digital/analog simultaneously? That way I wouldn't need a DAC for my sub ?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have only reviewed the SHD Studio, I can't comment on other products.

[@saylormdx2]

Yes, in the SHD analog output there are 4 programable channels. For each channel there is one RCA outlet and one balanced, both of which are simultaneously active. No external DAC is needed for up to a 2.2 system. The 4 channels are simultaneously presented digitally via 2 coax outlets, also active.

[@jaaptube9]

Very interesting as replacement of an ultraRendu. Did you test with the switchmode power supply? Or did you use a SBooster?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I used the SMPSU and the Syntaxx LPSU. No difference. Something I notice more on digital-only equipment.

[@progrocker84]

How would Dirac compare with the constant room monitoring/correction provided by the DBX Driverack Venu360? Wouldn't such live compensation always trump static room correction, on the basis that live compensation can account for people moving around a space?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have not reviewed the DBX but it is designed for concert sound. Different rules apply there and I would be surprised if it would work in a living room that is considerable smaller.

[@PauReydefaura]

Thanks for this review Hans. Why do you say you cannot hook up the NUC&Diract to the Sotm?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I don't want the NUC in the living since it is noisy. Therefore I use a network bridge - the SOtM. But I know of no way to have Roon run on the NUC, send its output to the DIRAC software, also running on the NUC and from there send it to the SOtM.

[@michelegrassi3492]

sorry for the lack of knowledge of DLBC for PC. This is a program that is being used by a friend of mine in his HT room in a HTPC with Jriver, and I'm trying to understand the functionality of this software. I wanted to ask you if it is possible to read an audio signal coming from a SACD Bluray player through an HDMI port of an internal or external electronic device to the PC, to then apply the DLBC filters and send the audio signal back to an AVR to listen to music in the system HT file. If it were possible, I need to know which device I should buy to connect it to the PC. Thanks in advance for your answers. Thank you very much. Miki

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have no experience with DLBC so I can't help you. Sorry.

[@blackrabbot]

Hi Hans. Have you tried room correction with Behringer ultracurve pro deq2496? It suits better to my budget and I'm thinking about getting one. All I've read about it are good opinions, but It would be nice to have yours. Thanks for your amazing channel.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I don’t like ‘normal’ approaches with equalizers because of their phase behavior.

[@blackrabbot]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel you just introduced a new concept for me: phase distortion. Time to do some research.

[@magnush9229]

One comment about Roon and MQA: Roon has solved MQA in the best way possible, they do the first unfold, then volume and DSP changes, then MQA is put back so if its sent to an MQA DAC it will see it as MQA and perform the second unfold. The second unfold don't give much extra SQ though, but its a neat way to solve it.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Correct, but that is of little interest if the DSP function deteriorates the sound.

[@magnush9229]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel never noticed that, are you sure its not because of increased electronic noise caused by more CPU work?

[@jannejunt]

Hey, The NAD C658 is a streamer with Diract (with FW update to add that feature yet to be released) - Would be great to hear your thoughts on it once they release the Diract patch. It has received somewhat lukewarm reception at its current state based on various forum posts.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

There is a lot of NAD equipment featuring both DIRAC and MQA. I can't review them all but I will surely review some of them.

[@aniagwozdz477]

Hello Hans, enjoy your videos. Could you tell me if I could add any of the minidsp products with Dirac Live room correction to my setup. Currently, I have powernode 2i with KEf LS50 meta speakers ? How can I take advantage of Dirac option ? How would I connect any of mini dsp products with it, is it even possible in my setup. I am playing everything through Powernode : Todat MQA, hi-rez audio etc.. and I would like to continue doing so but with applied Dirac Live corrections ? Any words of wisdom would be appreciated! Thanks, A.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You can't use MiniDSP products with the Powernode.

[@Dreadlockyx]

Great video, good to see coverage on miniDSP stuff. Do you know if I can use their devices to use active monitors for a surround sound system ?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

They do have mulichannel devices but I have no hands-on experience whit them.

[@Dreadlockyx]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks for the input !

[@majik11111]

Great video, thank you so much for sharing!

[@marcfoss7687]

Thanks again for the useful video, Hans. Regarding hardware setup, a power amp seems to be recommended for the SHD Studio connection as opposed to an integrated amp which I am planning on together with a separate streamer (with built in DAC). There will be a preamp-out socket on my integrated but not a pre-in or mains-in, (though there is a record-in & record-out socket). In this case, may I ask if it would still be possible to use the minidsp SHD Studio with an integrated amp? Sorry for the additional question but I can't get my head around this, though I would v much like to purchase the minidsp (primarily for Dirac room/speaker correction purposes) if I can hook it up. Thank you.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You can use the Rec out and tape in and switch on the tape monitor circuit.

[@marcfoss7687]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks.

[@marcfoss7687]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks again Hans, and I hope you are enjoying your holiday! May I just follow up with a related question? My integrated amp has a Record In/Out socket which I believe is the same as a Tape In/Out which would allow me to hook up the DSP between my streamer/CD and amp. However, if I switch on the Record/Tape In (as you suggest) from the source dial on the front of the amp, will it still be possible to switch/connect to other sources (such as the streamer/CD player), or will the DSP bypass these other sources and not affect them? Sorry if this is a dumb question but I am struggling to get my head around this! Maybe it would be preferable to choose an integrated amp with a pre-out and mains-in which, if I understand correctly from miniDSP, would work much easier...

[@koekert112]

I tried to find a Streaming intergrated with room eq and a good powerfull sound. Now I am starting to think about seperates more and more. I was wondering about a MiniDSP (like the flex), with that you have a Dirac enabled dac, that also has subwoofer intergration. Its also a preamp, that seems like crazy value since I can just pick a nice poweramp and it still is less then most of the dirac interfrated amps. Wondering how it would preform as a preamp or if I just need to keep it digital and buy a seperate preamp..

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have not reviewed the Flex but the SHD Studio is a very good product.

[@whitehorses1291]

Somewhere at the end of the review I heard something like I would have loved to have a fixed output level. What is the reasoning behind this request? Let me explain a little bit why I ask this question A few months ago, I had the occasion to test the minidsp SHD. My personal system is built around a minidsp 4X10HD. The speaker system is 3way digitally filtered and powered by 6 NCORE amplifiers. At present, I am streaming using a PC/HiFace solution. The SHD seemed to be the perfect one box solution towards the future. However, it is crippled by only 4 output channels. So, I deciced to use a combo system with a SHD in front and the existing 4X10HD connected to the power amplifiers. I would use the SHD as the switching point between my sources (CD transport, Qobuz etc ..) and as a bonus I would have a volume indicator which the 4X10HD lacks. So far so good. I tried to install Qobuz but that failed. So I decided to give the SHD/4x10HD combo a listen with CD playback (using spdif) in comparison to CD playback with the 4X10HD (also using spdif). In the first situation, I set the volume at the SHD and the volume of the 4X10HD at 0 dB. This surely sounded less good than the single 4X10HD solution. I figured out that perhaps the filter calculations are now performed on attenuated data. So Hans, might this be the reason for asking for a fixed 0 dB output level? I took my research one step further to exclude the influence of rounding errors in the DSP. I used a Reference Recordings track that I was able to play at 0 dB. I was now in the position where both the SHD & 4X10HD were set at 0 dB. Well, the sound quality problem persisted. The SHD/4x10HD combo system clearly had less focus and energy when compared to the single 4X10HD solution. To my ears, it sounded as a mild jitter problem. This could be an indication that the spdif out of the SHD is not bullet proof and /or the spdif input of the 4X10HD is quite sensitive to incoming jitter. Did you investigate the quality of the spdif output of the SHD?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

The only reason to request a 'switch' to disable volume is that the SHD Studio is the least optimal place to do volume control. The best place in general is the amplifier but if that is a power amplifier, the DAC might be the place to do volume control. I have no clue why you have the problem you have.

[@Altsouza64]

Hi Hans, I will replicate a Reply I did below for user Kai Jorgesen: >>> "I think the Han's reply did not fully answer your question. Rel recomends to Conect their Subs with speaker level signal from you amp (yes , from your amps power outputs along with your speakes). But, In this case, you loose the individual Dsp setings ( to the mains and to the subs) you would apply using the SHD Studio. So you are right , you have to use Two Dacs, one goes to your mains Speakers and another to the Sub (or subs). In these case you will be able to apply diferent Dsp setings to the mains Speakers and to the Subs, integrating them better. I just dont know if the Dacs must be the same Brand/Model". Also, the majority of the Subs Availble do not have Speaker level inputs. So I ask you if two Dacs will work in this scenario, and if the Dacs would have to be same model/brand (ps: the SHD analog version does not suits my needs as it does not have HT bypass)

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have not tried working this way. I am fully satisfied with the way I work and I can think of many more urgent things to work on. But I thing that - since using Dirac Live - not using two identical DAC's will will lead to sound problems. I expect Dirac to compensate voor both time and frequency errors. That doesn't mean any DAC is the right choice. Dirac can not improve the overall sound quality.

[@BastianUllr]

Hello Hans... you being a user of Roon, why the DSP filters on Roon convolution engine correction in Roon Core was not used at the source, instead of getting an external DIRAC compatible DSP unit?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Dirac rightly protects its intellectual properties - the algorithms - by only making them available in controlled packages, like a program run inside the MiniDSP or NAD and Arcam AV receivers. There also is a plug-in for studio gear. But there is no plugin for Roon. I have asked Enno Vandermeer if Roon would add Dirac in the future but given the answer I don't think it will happen in the foreseeable future..

[@BastianUllr]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel they might not have Dirac, but do have this and can load external measurements by using programs such as Audiolense to run the measurements and corrections and generate the target curve. It is just to correct a full range speaker application, it seems very interesting. kb.roonlabs.com/DSP_Engine:_Convolution

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Convolution is a general DSP technique, it's the algorithms used that define the quality. I have listened to several affordable RC techniques and I like only Dirac. A report on what you suggest can be found here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpuTpYBna62dnpI

[@ronbrideau8902]

I think there may be a cooler, lower watt, chip you can use in same motherboard with much less fan noise. Perhaps a even a laptop chip.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I know, but I already have the i7 version.

[@haimsheffer5066]

Hi Hans. Did you try REW together with Roon as alternative to minidsp Shd ?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes, and I definitely didn't like it.

[@ryanclements6031]

Hi Hans, when you did your measurements did you have your Sub on or off? I have my Rel sub connected to the Amp speaker terminals high level so no crossover etc. Cheers!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

First make sure that your speakers are positioned as good as possible, then connect the sub to the speaker terminals, find the best place for it and adjust the settings so you obtain the best integration. And THEN do the measurements. SO with the sub connected.

[@ryanclements6031]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Great thanks, looking at your setup 1, do you have the MiniDSP between your Auralic G2 and your Myteck Brooklin?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Normally I do. But when reviewing I sometimes take it out to know for sure I listen to the device under test.

[@ryanclements6031]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Last question I promise... have you experimented with DSP in Roon to send only 96kHz files to the SHD Studio? I read somewhere someone with a theory that that would be the preference over letting the SHD Studio do the conversion. Cheers

[@MartinHAndersen]

Hans have you tried the Roon DSP? and what do you think about it?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You might want to watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYjYYoaZlKqBpKM

[@wojciechczupta]

hi Hans, finally got the SHD Studio. it works suprisingly well as preamp (good stere imiging), however it lacks in base department (less energetic and punchy). I made the first attempt with Dirac filter (the version for a single sit) and I'm not happy with it. The ears can feel something unnatural in the sound. Did you finally do it with Dirac filters or the simple filters like in Minidsp24HD?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

It is well known phenomenon. You are used to room modes producing a somewhat fat low end. You might even already have adapted the speaker placement to it. Using Dirac these room modes are prevented to a fair degree, removing the muddiness. But now you hear less low end energy. The MiniDSP has four memory positions and I presume you have stored the setting you now use in Memory position 1. I also presume you have stored the project holding the measurements. Open that project (you need to connect your computer to the MiniDSP) and increase the low end the target curve a few dB's, say 3 dB's at the lowest frequency and make the curve slope gradually to - say - the normal target curve at 125 Hz. Let Dirac compute the new filter and store it in Memory position 2. Now select Memory position 2 for playback and listen.

[@wojciechczupta]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel it's not only about that. I've played already with simple filters applied in PC (mediacenter) and I appreciate less base (I have really powerfull active speakers). I'm talking about a strage felling like you may have watching 3D movie. Your eyes see it, but your brain tells you that something strange is going on

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Try the following: in the target curve, remove as many nodes as possible without disturbing the global profile of the curve. That can be done with only three or four nodes. That's easier on the processing.

[@wojciechczupta]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel thanks for the hint. I'll play with it and share results. Listening to your video again: can the same be achieved just by installing the software on the source PC? I actually use a full size PC with quiet cooling as Tidal / Netflix platform. My first experiments were with APO Equilizer and REW. It did great job with the curve but obviously it requires to put the signal through PC audio system, which ruins the Tidal Eclusive mode and WASAPI in JRiver. I like the idea of external device, which also helps to separate noisy PC signal from DAC, however if the same can be achieved in PC CPU, which is now underutilized, maybe the 1000 EUR can be utilized elsewhere?

[@DidierGras]

Hi Hans and thank you!👍 I am unclear whether the SHD will pass on Qobuz hirez files eg 24bit/192kHz to my DAC ?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

After the DSP the signal is 96 kHz but you gain so much more from the room compensation and the filtering is very good. So don’t follow the figures, follow the sound quality.

[@RichardKalmeijer]

Thanks for the interesting review. I have a Roon Rock server with Tidal and Qobuz activated and a separate DAC. Will the miniDSP be able to accept the Qobuz Stream and transform and transport it to a DAC f.e via SPDIF or over the network (my (DD)DAC accepts i2s input over utp via a RaspBerry PI)?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes it will. although the DAC would need a SPDIF or AES/EBU input since the miniDSP does not offer I2S.

[@RichardKalmeijer]

Thank you for your fast answer. Very helpful. Can the MiniDSP then accept the stream from Roon over the network or do i need to connect it to miniDSP directly over f.e. USB? (I think the NUC does not have other possibilities)

[@howardmilstein9915]

Will this unit improve problem frequency aberrations in your room, even though you may have a well treated room, but with some nasty peaks in areas of the mid to high frequencies?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Problem in mids and highs should be fighter with absorption or diffusers.

[@menash41]

It looks like the SHD model is Roon ready. I am thinking of replacing my MicroRendu/Modi 3 with the SHD. I'm hoping it's worth it. Also, would the SHD be better with a linear power supply?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

The SHD now is a Roon Endpoint. Do use the original power supply.

[@menash41]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks Hans. Should I pull the trigger?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You have to make that decision yourself. Feel the force....

[@menash41]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel OK. Do you recommend the SHD or the SHD Studio?

[@marcfoss7687]

Hi Hans, many thanks for the really informative video...I've actually listened to it several times over the past few months! I am in the process of buying a quality integrated amp and network player/streamer (with twin DACs). I will be planning on doing some serious room correction given my very non-optimal, small size room. May I ask if the SHD Studio model would be necessary if I already have a streamer/DAC? Would say the cheaper miniDSP 2x4 HD model work equally well (with Full Dirac Live Room Correction - purchased separately?). I plan to have a 2 stereo speaker + 1 subwoofer setup. Would there be a material advantage in purchasing the SHD Studio model? Would really appreciate your brief comment, thanks.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have not reviewed the 2x4 HD so I can’t judge the audio quality. Sorry.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Within a few weeks I will review tha MiniDSP Power that has a 2 x 120 watt amp built in....

[@marcfoss7687]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks Hans...I look forward to that.

[@thepickyaudiophile]

If we take Dirac out of the equation (have not been convinced by the pc trial I did), is it worth getting this over something like the allo signature with good Psy, on sq alone? Thanks!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I think you should try Dirac once more. And if you find what Dirac can offer, than the SHR Studio might be for you.

[@jakobgooijer]

Beste heer Beekhuyzen Korte vraag over de minidsp : Voert de minidsp qobuz 192khz door naar mijn Mutec mc3usb? Of blijft het bij de aangegeven 96khz. Hartelijk dank

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Het blijft bij 96 kHz maar de klankverbetering kan veel beter zijn dan het verschil tussen 96 en 192 kHz.

[@jakobgooijer]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel hartelijk dank!

[@xavieralberto1176]

Hi Hans, Does the use of this Dirac device mean the end of listening rooms stuffed with acoustic panels.?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

No

[@prabhup1530]

Mr. Hans I've a pair of minidsp ice 2×125 plate amplifier, can i setup shd studio streamar with my ice amp, (only stereo setup) is it working good or not?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

That will work

[@marcm2053]

I'm mildly interested about acquiring a MiniDSP SHD Studio for room correction, but a bit concerned about the fact that the unit processes everything internally to 96kHz. My understanding is that Rob Watts doesn't recommend scaling music on the server side and that my Chord Hugo M Scaler is better equipped to handle the math functions. Am I conflating the two different things and expressing a concern over something that won't be recognizable?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Both the M Scaler and the MiniDP solve a problem. It's best to solve the problem that has the most effect on the sound quality. If the acoustics of your listening room is perfect, don't use the SHD Studio. If it's not optimal, I would go for having Dirac solve that.

[@ryanclements6031]

Hi Marc, I can tell you that connecting the SHD Studio to the M Scaler works because that's what I have done. Adding the SHD Studio into the digital chain (without any Dirac correction yet) did sound slightly different (compared to without the SHD Studio) but at this early stage I don't think it degraded sound quality. I haven't had a chance to do any room correction but measurements suggest that my room is far from perfect. My expectation is that the end result will be an improvement.

[@marcm2053]

@@ryanclements6031 Thanks for sharing your experience with using MiniDSP SHD Studio with a Chord Hugo M Scaler. I’m glad to hear that you didn’t experience any decline in sound quality as a result. Like you I have a challenging listening space beyond what room treatments has addressed. I’ve done some recent upgrades using EtherREGEN, ISO REGEN, Opto-DX and a couple ULTRACAP LPS-1.2. All with quality cabling. So I nearly have everything dialed in, I’m hoping I can achieve a final bit of tweaking through the addition of MiniDSP SHD Studio. LOL, in the end though I’m stuck with the reality of poorly engineered/produced recordings in my collection! Short of remastering magic there’s nothing I can do about that! Oh well!

[@antoniomarsicola8608]

Hi Hans, can you shape the Dirac target curve even at high frequencies? I'd love a slight euphony by lowering response a bit around 4 khz

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Absolutely, but be careful and evaluate what you achieved!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes you can in the 'full' version.

[@wojciechczupta]

Hans, have you managed to get Exclusive Mode or ASIO in PC connected to SHD Studio via USB? Though I select 'Exclusive mode' in Tidal App or ASIO driver in JRiver, I can still control the sound volume in Windows. Does it mean USB drivers can't bypass Windows sound system? What about bit perfect?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Being a Mac user, I am not the right person to aks this question to. Goto the support forum of MiniDSP: www.minidsp.com/forum/index

[@wojciechczupta]

I checked it deeper - at least for JRiver it's bit perfect. SHD does really good job

[@johanbeeckaert4695]

Hallo Hans, Mooi review. Is er dan geen enkele manier om Roon te gebruiken met dit apparaat?

[@stephen9463]

So to get a subwoofer to participate in the dsp we need a second dac? What if my amp has a sub out.. will it not be dsp'ed properly?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You only need a second DAC (and amp) if you use a passive sub (one without integrated amp). Most subs today are active (have a built in amp) and these can be used directly connected to the Mini DSP.

[@ranelime]

Thank you Hans yet again. Do you think a Dirac software with MacMini can compete? Looking forward for a Dirac software with computer :)

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I haven't tried so I can't say. Sorry.

[@MartinHAndersen]

No mention of power supply? Does it sounds better with the SBooster?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I use it with the psu that came with it.

[@duarteteixeiradebarros3555]

Hans - I bought the SHD and will need a coax cable which I never used before. I read it has to be at least 1.5m - do you share this view. Also, I could not understand what coax do you use from you system description - could you share the brand and model? Thanks!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I never give any advise on cables, just buy one, try it and return it if it doesn't sound like you expected.

[@peterstevens9274]

Can you not use a USB a to b cable to output from the MiniDSP to a DAC? I noticed you said there’s a USB host port but you mentioned this is only for a USB stick with music files ? We can’t use that instead of spdif to connect a dac? Thanks Hans

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

@@peterstevens9274 you can not use that USB for connecting to a DAC.

[@peterstevens9274]

The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel aww that’s a shame, the usb input on my amp sounds a lot better than spdif. Thanks for replying Hans 👍

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

@@peterstevens9274 You might wonder if that is due to the inputs on your amp or due to the qualities of the digital sources you use. I bet it's the last...

[@boonchyelim8598]

Hi, how does tis compares to lynģdorf 1120 room correction sys I terms of sound quality outcome.?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have not reviewed the Ligdorf 1120 so I can't say.

[@meshplates]

I have a miniDSP SHD (full version with DACs). I use it to biamp using active crossover and Dirac. I am not satisfied with the built in internal streamer because it no longer works with Qobuz. They promise an upgrade but who knows. So I'd like to get a streamer upgrade and I am thinking either of an Auralic Aries Mini or a SOtM sMS-200 Ultra. Which would give the best musical performance?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

If you watch my reviews that might be more than clear. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKauonmppJihitk and kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHTSd3yahbGWi80.

[@menash41]

How is it for Roon?

[@stephen9463]

If you have a sub where would you control the volume? Network streamer/pc and or the shd?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

On the SHD. Please feed it with a 0 dB attenuated digital signal from the computer/streamer

[@sascorthijmen]

I have active speakers with DAC that only accepts Toslink. Is converting SPDIF to Toslink bad for sound quality?

[@dadvader6197]

it shouldnt change anything if you don't mess with sample rate and bit depth, all your interfaces are converting digital inputs to i2s to speak with the dac section

[@hansdelange130]

As of now Dirac Live 2.0 is available for the MiniDSP SHDees ;) Next Roon support i hope. www.minidsp.com/forum/shd-series

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I know. A review follows suit

[@juanm.2714]

Gran video, gracias por la información. Un saludo!

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

🙏🏻

[@m.m.8497]

How would you integrate it with a ROON Rock NUC on the other side and and streamer/DAC/amp on the other side ? Thanks !

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Use a network bridge. Watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIm1mmyrqbN1opY

[@svgmr298]

Hans, do I understand correctly that you have found a streamer that sounds as good as the SOtM SMS-Ultra Neo streamer and offers room correction on top of that? Does that mean that you are going to swap the SOtM for the SHD Studio? Because it sounds as good and is cheaper (doesn't need a high quality power supply) and offers room correction as a nice extra, there seems no reason to keep the SOtM SMS-Ultra Neo anymore?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

You understood me good. But the MiniDSP does not support Roon so I use the SOtM as streamer and the MiniDSP as room correction..

[@svgmr298]

Would the use of MiniDSP SHD upgrade a 'normal' streamer as it will overrule the clock of the streamer and uses the (apparently) very good clock inside the MiniDSP? (apart from the room correction feature). (Btw, strange that the power supply doesn't influence the sound quality as you wrote below.... most streamers are pretty sensitive for good and clean power)

[@klausjones9012]

Hello Hans! Does the SHD Studio work as a clock master or slave?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Since it only has asynchronous outputs, it has to be the master. But it delivers a very good and clean SPDIF and AES/EBU signal.

[@klausjones9012]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Perfect, thank you for your reply!

[@NightAndDay247]

Dirac + MQA? Please review the NAD C 658. Thank you.

[@kubjohal]

Hi, I find if I set the volume on the shd to 0.0dbs there is a slight crackle in the speakers ... Did you have such a problem? Thanks,

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have had that but it disappeared after installing the firmware again.

[@kubjohal]

Hi, can you connect the studio to a DAC over usb? i.e using the USB output next to the power connection on the rear?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

No, it’s only SPDIF or AES/EBU.

[@kubjohal]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel thanks for the reply. I'm struggling to use the minidsp app for Android. The app scans but doesn't locate the device so I type in the IP address ... It looks like it makes connection but then stops stating 'Alert no connection' any ideas?

[@delvalle9256]

Can this be used for both room correction/EQ and integrate 2 subs in a two channel system . Thanks

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Yes but the 'Studio' version only has digital outputs so you would need an analog to digital converter. It would be better to go for the MiniDSP SHD (without 'Studio") for that has analog outputs. There are four analog outputs, two can used for left and right and two for two sub's. Each output can be set individually using Dirac room correction, so each sub can have individual correction.

[@delvalle9256]

@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thank you 😊. I appreciate the response

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

👍🏼

[@svgmr298]

Hans, how do you compare the SQ of the MniDSP SHD with the Roon room correction feature?

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

Roon has no room correction but has equalizers and convolution. A 3rd party program is needed and most of them don’t work in the time domain..

[@svgmr298]

It would be very interesting to compare the results of convolution of Roon (with the use of REW) with the results of MiniDSP SHD. I'm getting very good results with Roon convolution. Would be wondering whether MiniDSP would offer even better correction.

[@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel]

I have done that and didn’t find it worth the production time to make a video. Play music through Roon and only switch on the headroom at 3 dB. That alone deteriorates the sound.

[@svgmr298]

Thanks for sharing! (I didn't notice a sound degradation in mid/high when correcting the lows)