Rev 3
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The REV 3 Code Update

The Platinum DAC IV was initially shipped with Rev 1 code. In May 2010 we began shipping rev 2 code. August 1 rev 3 code became available. If you are not sure what version of code you have just go into the setup mode and check the ABOUT option.

Rev 3 code offers some nice new features as well as fixing a number of bugs. Perhaps the best feature is the addition of a new aluminum remote which provides a greater degree of control. The new remote continues to offer the same functionality as the old remote without the code update, but with the update there are additional features and three user defined remote buttons as well as navigation. Other features include a setting that allows you to limit the maximum possible volume, to protect your speakers, half and quarter db volume steps for Signature and Diamond customers and some new filter options and menu features.

The new remote will be shipping with all new DACs and will be made available as an upgrade to all Platinum DAC customers. The remote gives complete control for the DATA CD IV, DAC IV and iLink products.

The Bit-Perfect Test

Perhaps one of the most useful features of the REV 3 upgrade is the bit-perfect test. A series of files can be downloaded here. Warning! These files contain 0 db content. Turn your volume down before playing. Now there are two category of files. The standard files are files most sources should be able to handle. Each file has an audio intro identifying the file. The Special files are files that only advanced sources will be able to play. The MSB DATA CD IV transport is the only transport in the world that will play all of these files bit-perfect.

They are .wav test files that when played, will be identified by the DAC IV and checked, and will be reported on the display if they are bit perfect. The message will stay on for about 6 seconds. If there is a problem with the test, the file will play and a loud burst of static like sound will be heard but the display will not indicate any change. This means that your source did not play the file bit perfect. Be sure upsampling in your source is turned off as this prevents a file from remaining bit-perfect. This system will allow you to easily test your source, especially computer sources to see if all your settings are correct. There are files at all sample rates for both 16 bit, 24 bit and 32 bit operation. The 16 bit 44.1 test file can be burned to a CD to test transports. Most systems will not be able to deal with the files over 192k or 32 bit files. This exciting and useful feature comes for free with your REV 3 update.

How to Update

The big change between rev 1 and rev 2 has to do with how an update is installed. Rev 1 DACs must be sent back to MSB to be updated. Rev 2 and later DACs can be updated simply by playing a .wav audio file using a bit perfect transport, iLink or PC with bit perfect output. This file must be made specifically for you, so if you have a DAC IV and wish to upgrade, please contact MSB with your DAC serial number, and we can send you the update file.

What you can expect

The main point of this upgrade is not a startling sonic upgrade, but a big change to the reclocking will result in better performance with noisy sources like a PC or broadcast source. The DAC should run more reliably and consistently. The main changes will be in new features.

What does this upgrade cost?

The big news here is that the upgrade is FREE. If you are out of the US and have a Rev 1 DAC, your distributor may be able to do the upgrade for you or if not, you will have to pay shipping to send it to us. The new remote will be offered FREE to Diamond customers, and will be shipped to all other DAC IV customers for a nominal charge of $38, including shipping. The upgrade file can also be shipped on a CD when the remote has been ordered.