MUSEATEX BITSTREAM™ D/A CONVERTER      updates

The Bitbox

When the "Bitstream™" technology was introduced by Philips, several manufacturers embraced the new technology. The first generation SAA 7321 Bitstream™ chip found its way to many converters but the audiophile press gave the products only a lukewarm reception. Museatex designers felt that while the concept had merit, the technology was not up to par with state-of-the-art converters.

The second generation SAA 7350 chip, with 384 times over-sampling and a differential output circuit, elevated bitstream™ conversion to audiophile status.

The Melior Bitstream™ D/A converter has since become a reference standard. The Melior Bitstream™ Converter has two digital inputs, one fiber optic and one co-axial. Two independent digital sources can be connected to the unit. A front panel membrane switch allows you to choose between the two.

The input frequency rate is automatically sampled and displayed on the front panel. This means that any two digital inputs can be used regardless of sample rate.

Design Features

Specifications

Electrical

Physical

Updates

The Data II Update

This D/A, like the Bidat is based on the Philips Bitstream technology. This was a great sounding DAC in its day and still serves the music well, though not with the same credentials as the Bidat. While working on the Bidat a number of discoveries were made that are directly applicable to the Bitstream DAC. It was decided that a complete upgrade should be offered to take advantage of all these updates and add a few other conveniences as well. The original circuit board is retained but many of the parts are replaced or removed. Below is a list of updates and their advantages that make up this comprehensive upgrade.
  • Class A: All the analogue circuitry is run in Class A to eliminate zero crossing error and increase linearity.
  • The latest devices: The amplifying stages do not use the latest devices but rather ones that are immune to the high frequency noise that comes from the DAC chip. This noise is just outside the audible range and is commonly filtered out after the first amplifying stage but it has already done some damage in terms of upsetting the amplifier itself.
  • Analogue Filters: The filters are changed to work before and after the amplifying stage and are relaxed to allow a little more high frequency energy to pass.
  • Power Supply: The power supply is enhanced at every opportunity. This is one of the single most critical portions of any circuit. It is where all the energy for the circuitry comes from and must be pure and abundant. Addition of further regulation in critical areas also helps to reduce jitter.
  • IEC Power: An IEC power receptacle has been added in place of the standard power cord. This allows owners to take full advantage of after market power cords.

    The “Data II” update is not to be taken lightly. In direct comparison to other DACs it rises directly to the top. Even compared to the Bidat it is more of a flavour difference than which is better or worse. For those who already own the Bitstream D/A this is a natural progression. It’s already an old friend at home in your audio system and the upgrade obviates the hassle of shopping for a new unit not to mention spending thousands more for lesser sound quality. For those that have bought one used the same rational applies but from a different point of view. The price for the Data II upgrade is $500.USD. Please enquire about a suitable after market power cord

    Updates are performed on Meitner and Museatex products at our Calgary facility.
    Email us at john@museatex.com or call (403) 968-1400 for more information.

    The Museatex Bitstream™ D/A Converter has been superseded by the Idat44

    Owner's Manual