|
|
Post by arftech on Jan 23, 2017 18:07:53 GMT -5
My new DC-1 arrived just now and I have a question on how are some of you folks connecting your DC-1 to various systems. I want to go out USB from my MacBook to the USB input of the DC-1 and then out to my Anthem pre/pro to play TIDAL HiFi. Should I go RCA balanced/unbalanced or use the digital outs from the DC-1 to the digital inputs of the Anthem? What are the advantages or disadvantages either way?
Enjoy The Music!
|
|
|
|
Post by garbulky on Jan 23, 2017 18:29:03 GMT -5
The DC-1 does not have a digital output.
So you bought the DC-1 because it has a very nice DAC section. That means digital to analog. So it only converts digital to analog.
If possible, I would use the direct mode or whatever mode Anthem calls it so that it does not process the analog signal from the DC-1 in to digital again.
Things that can digitize the analog signal: changing the volume (depending on processor). using Subwoofer management. Using room correction.
If any of these things are being used on the anthem processor then the anthem will digitize the signal from the DC-1 converting it in to digital. Then the anthem will use its own DAC to reconvert it back in to analog. This means whatever advantage from the DC-1 is lost as what you are hearing is the DAC of the anthem (not the DC-1 DAC that you paid over $400 for).
Also if possible I would use the optical (also called or TOSLINK) digital connection from the macbook's headphone jack section to connect to the DC-1. It needs a special adapter (about $6). The difference for me isn't huge, but I found myself preferring the TOSLINK connection. You may notice no difference here.
|
|
|
|
Post by vcautokid on Jan 23, 2017 19:41:30 GMT -5
It is almost certain the Anthem, like allot of gear has a Direct or Pure Direct mode to take the output of the DC-1, and let it shine in its glory. Take full advantage of the Balanced output. Why not? You get all the benefits of the DC-1's ability. It will tell allot about your music. Congratulations on your new DC-1. The DAC that is amazing. Let us know how you get along. We are always eager to hear, and help too. Enjoy!  |
|
|
|
Post by arftech on Jan 23, 2017 22:25:51 GMT -5
After coming home from the gym, I unboxed and made the connections. All I can say is wow...what a heck of a difference between a $2500 DAC that I originally had versus this small foot print box that cost a $500. Granted, my older DAC was about 11 years old and somewhat limited versus today's modern DAC technology but still.
I decided to use it's balanced XLR analog connections to my Pre/Pro (direct mode) and I can report Tidal HiFi never sounded better. As a side note the headphone amp on the DC-1 ain't no slouch either. My Audeze headphones sounded really good but I'll get a better feel later tomorrow. So far I'm really impressed!
Kudos to Emotiva!
Enjoy The Music
|
|
|
|
Post by arftech on Jan 23, 2017 22:28:09 GMT -5
It is almost certain the Anthem, like allot of gear has a Direct or Pure Direct mode to take the output of the DC-1, and let it shine in its glory. Take full advantage of the Balanced output. Why not? You get all the benefits of the DC-1's ability. It will tell allot about your music. Congratulations on your new DC-1. The DAC that is amazing. Let us know how you get along. We are always eager to hear, and help too. Enjoy! Thanks...I took advantage of the XLR Balanced out and I'm liking what I'm hearing! Enjoy The Music |
|
|
|
Post by arftech on Jan 23, 2017 22:31:27 GMT -5
It is almost certain the Anthem, like allot of gear has a Direct or Pure Direct mode to take the output of the DC-1, and let it shine in its glory. Take full advantage of the Balanced output. Why not? You get all the benefits of the DC-1's ability. It will tell allot about your music. Congratulations on your new DC-1. The DAC that is amazing. Let us know how you get along. We are always eager to hear, and help too. Enjoy! Thanks for the correction about me saying the DC-1 had digital outs. This DAC is impressive! Enjoy The Music |
|
