I did some tests last night.. I'll try and post some fft images, etc.
I ran jb3 out >
v3 AES > 722
722
UA5 USB > PC
Suspecting the jb3, I then re-did the test using a Squeezebox3 as the source. I'd like to test the minime in there and the microtrack too. I would especially like to get data on a Mytek A/D (double good with a Mytek DA as the source). It would be fun to test a few high end D/A's with the same A/D destination.
Most tests were done at 24/44. UA5 @ 16 bits. For a couple cases I also did 16/44 on the 722.
In one case I ran the limiter on the 722 and kept increasing the levels until they were absurdly high. The integrity of the sine wave was good, even at extreme levels. But when 'in' the limiter (above -6 dB), the harmonics increased.
Some portion of the harmonic is probably from the D/A source.
The harmonics in the V3 A/D source were lower than the 722. But most who own both agree that V3 line > 722 sounds better than v3 AES > 722. Go figure! When recording shows, I record V3 line > 722 and also straight into the 722. I run my 722 levels hot. Would those soaring high female folk vocals that touch 0 dB sound better if they were peaked at -5 and raised in post?
Of course.. I now have too much data to make the summary a quick and painless task