Will MSB’s new HDMI I2S input module be (or become) compatible with Esoteric’s proprietary link?
If so, then the Esoteric P1X SE SACD transport will be able to connect and operate with MSB DACs.
Whoops, and shucks!
Esoteric’s proprietary ES-link uses two HDMI connectors. Not likely that it’ll conform to the single connector I2S interface/standards adopted by Oppo, PS Audio, Sony, etc.
Hello @mcmprov , welcome to the forum! Alas, not with the Analog DAC. We are still offering trade in value for the Analog DAC if that is something you are interested in. It’s not what it once was, but if you get in touch with your dealer we can see what can be done. Cheers!
Hmmmmm, we should get our hands on the I2S output from this and add it to the library of sources. Keep the recs coming, thanks!
Sonore offers a USB to I2S converter. It handles DSD512, but only PCM384. They use the PS Audio I2S pinout, so it should be compatible.
Indeed, but we have a superior USB input with the Pro USB and isolation of the ISL fiber interface. Unless the source is offering more flexibility, I would always recommend one of our native inputs.
Absolutely Daniel!
1 Like
As you wrote this is a proprietary connection (with several release to improve the signal/resolution of the transport) that just use HDMI connector to be established.
Nothing to compare with the I2S signal.
For the sake of truth I have to admit that few months ago I’ve tried to obtain (via the Service dept.) the schematics of this ES-Link connection, but without any chance of success 
1 Like
Just received the module from the local dealer on Xmas day! 
I followed the guide to update the firmware. After the firmware update the screen shows no input so I suspect the new firmware hasn’t been uploaded to the website? (The date of the firmwares for both DAC (32.21)and DD (12.11) are still in 2023)
1 Like
Wade,
Yes! Sorry the firmware wasn’t provided for you. It has not been widely released yet since we are waiting for more feedback and only a few folks have the new module. I will have @Jonathan_Gullman send the files to you. Merry Christmas!
1 Like
Thanks Daniel,
I wrote him a mail after seeing your reply. Thanks again for brining this up and hope you have a very happy upcoming 2025 
1 Like
@Daniel_Francis
Hi Daniel
I bought a month ago, an Antipodes Audio K50, model from year 2022, second hand from a shop in Sweden and had it shipped to France, which Prince from their support team, (a great guy !) finally managed to remotely upgrade to AMS 4.4.0 for both player and server, reconfigure it and make it work for me.
By just using the Coax BNC output on the K50 to the MSB Reference DAC +DD, at present, the sound is already stellar. I can’t imagine what level could be reached with the I2S interface. Hence my question :
I asked Prince from Antipodes what is the dip switch configuration to set on the bottom of the K50 for MSB and he could not answer as your I2S interface is pretty resent and suggested to revert back to MSB. Do you have this info ? Thanks,
Pascal
1 Like
@Abascal , settings are at the bottom of the page:
Let us know what you find!
Sorry for not having checked on the right page. Did not realize you had updated the input modules pages. Thanks a bunch for the hint. I just need now to go buy ithe I2S module.
1 Like
All good!
Hi again
I sent a request to the main Paris shop affiliated with your French distributor in France to have price availability of the the new Universal I2S carda bout 10 days ago. A few days ago the shop told me they had no news from you guys. Could you be kind enough to send them this info which will allow me to order this new input card ?
Other question. I am contemplating to order an « à la carte » HDMI cable. The manufacturer can connect it with either the A definition or B definition. Which one is recommended by MSB to connect the I2S card to a K50 ?
Thanks
Hello @Abascal,
I would only use standard HDMI cables. As long as the cable is designed to HDMI standards it should work great.
Hi, I just joined the forum today. I purchased a refurbished Reference DAC through a dealer this month (love it!).
Owning a PS Audio PerfectWave SACD Transport I’m very excited by the I2S input module. I received mine Friday. I tried to install but the DAC doesn’t recognize it yet. I understand the firmware update is still in development.
Sorry for all the preamble. My question, how will I know when the firmware update is available for download?
Thanks,
Guy
1 Like
Welcome to the forum! Congrats on the Reference DAC, its an awesome DAC. Will send you a DM with the required files. Should have that over to you soon.
2 Likes
Hi Daniel,
I’m going to receive the new I2S module too. Like 69taylor I will connect a PS Audio SACD Transport, as you know.
If my Reference Digital Director and DAC need a firmare update, can you send me the file please, I’d appreciate it so much, thanks.
Maybe the update file should be published on the support page of the MSB website.