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Product:
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SilverStone Ensemble EB01 |
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Price:
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$98 (CDN) / $87 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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SilverStone Technology
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Author:
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Mars
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Date:
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October 13th, 2006
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank SilverStone Technology
for sending the SilverStone Ensemble EB01 for review.
Introduction:
Most of us are aware of the benefits of having an HTPC in our living room. It is convenient having one box that can play
DVD's and videos, act as a PVR, TV, satellite and an FM tuner. If you are most music enthusiasts, you have ripped all
of your CD's to MP3 and have a massive music library at your disposal and never need to change a CD or load a CD changer.
One drawback behind using your computer to play music is sound quality. No matter whether you use on-board sound or
a top of the line sound card, there will be some amount of noise, or more importantly sound coloration due to the
Digital to Analog conversion that is performed by these devices. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the new
SilverStone Ensemble EB01, a USB based Digital to Analog converter that takes aim at providing a pure clean sound
source.
Specifications:
The SilverStone Ensemble EB01 is a convenient device that can instantly translate your PC’s digital signals into lifelike
analog sound suitable for personal high end stereo setups. The EB01's advanced internal circuitry will ensure that any
sound effect or music from your CD, DVD, MP3 files, or games will be reproduced in quality as the artist and content
creator originally envisioned. Here are some specifications taken directly from the SilverStone Technology website:
| Model |
SilverStone Ensemble EB01
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| Dynamic Range |
100dB (typ at 16-bit) |
| SNR |
105dB (typ) |
| THD+N |
0.002% (typ at 16-bit) |
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Full Scale Output |
3.1Vp-p
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Sampling Rate (FS) |
32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
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Features |
- High quality 4-layer PCB with a ground layer to ensure distortion free signals
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| - Pure sound reproduction with no filter capacitor
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| - Relay output ensures no popping noise when system turns on or off
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| - Automatic USB voltage regulator guarantees stable electrical input for EB01
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| - Analog and digital signals are powered separately for no cross-over effects
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| - USB powered for less clutter and ease of use
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The SilverStone EB01 comes in a black cardboard box with a fold over style top. The top and side portions contain text
and pictures highlighting the features and specifications, as well as the two color options of either black or silver.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The SilverStone EB01 is safely housed in a sponge type foam barrier, with the main unit in one section, and the accessories
in another separate section. There is a gold plated USB A to B type, and an RCA to 1/8" (3.5mm) cable included for the
needed connections, as well as simple and easy to follow instruction manual.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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My initial impression of the SilverStone EB01 was a positive one based on the styling and construction quality, but at
the same time I was a little perplexed as to the need for such a device. The SilverStone EB01 is manufactured mostly
from aluminum with a brush textured look. After a close inspection the overall shape of the SilverStone EB01 reminds
me a concert piano.
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