CDP - running only one channel, can this damage?

Not all components are built to the same standards of construction or use similar circuitry. As such, i was promoting a "low cost / common sense" approach that guarantees safe operating conditons for ANY type of device.

When making suggestions / comments on forums like this, we have to think about those looking for answers in the archives too. While we may know the specifics of this given situation in terms of product make / model and design integrity, someone else may be using a very different product and assume that the answers given here would apply to their situation just as well. By suggesting that someone spend $5 to protect their gear under any given circumstances, i don't think that i was out of line. I was simply thinking ahead and offering a truly "universal" answer. Sean
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Herman and Sean,
Thank you both for your input. With gear that has xlr and rca outputs, I wonder if the two unused are "active" while the other two are in use? If so, I wonder to be safe, if it would not be prudent to put a dummy load on the unused, same things with amps. I suppose it depends on the design of the make and manufacturer. I will send an email to Wadia and see what they have to say; there was nothing in their manual. Thanks again, Jim

very unscientific answer.

Hi All,

I spoke with John at Wadia. We are ALL CORRECT. He said there would be no issue with running one channel. And further suggested to not put a dummy load on the un-used side. However, IF dummy loaded PROPERLY, that would be no issue, but not necessary, so don't risk it. I did not ask what proper dummy loading would be. Also, all four outputs are "buffered" ??? for the same load - I probably am relaying this incorrectly, but that you can actually use all four at once.

Thanks again for everyone's thoughtful ideas and insights,
Jim

Of course, that assumes that John is correct. I guess I need to understand a little more about my equipment and electronic principles. If I was unable to get through to Wadia (they called back), I probably would have investigated dummy loading. FWIW, for those folks reading this in this archives, who are looking for input on running a single channel from their CDP, I would get in touch the manufacturer, and if unreachable, investigate a dummy load to be safe (but make sure it's done correctly). I wasn't so confident that Wadia would get back to me as quickly as they did; This has not always been my experience.

Thanks again,
Jim

Jim