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Digital Amplifier Questions

I've been wondering the following:

1. Do digital amps benefit from being left on 24/7in the same way the ss amps do?

2. Is plugging a digital amp into a different outlet as your preamp as crucial compared to a ss amp?

3. Do digital amps have small transformers? If so, is distancing equipment from one another less important? (My peachtre Nova Pre/220 look best stacked)

4. When upgrading power cords on a digital amp, do you look for cords that do well with digital gear like your preamp and dac, or do you still go for a beefy cord?

I apologize ahead of time for my ignorance on the matter! Thanks!
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almarg's avatar
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Good news, Tim, and thanks for undertaking the effort.

To others who may wish to perform similar tests in the future, though, I would repeat one of my earlier statements:
03-31-15: Almarg
... the test will be most sensitive if you tune to a frequency at which no station is present. If a station is present the radio's AGC (automatic gain control) circuit will reduce its sensitivity, especially if the station's signal is strong.
Best regards,
-- Al
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kijanki
4,432 posts
 
For something that has absolutely nothing to do with the sound of your system, RF interference/leakage testing is sure a pain in the butt; mainly since I'm handicapped and walk with a cane.

RF itself is way above our hearing range but different frequencies can mix on any non-linear element in the system, producing new frequencies that might be audible. Al mentioned it many times. Keep your system clean from interference (shielding, keeping things apart, using different outlets etc.). Anything can be the gateway, including speaker cables.
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noble100
2,419 posts
 
Hi Almarg,

I did initially try your recommended method (tuning to an area low on the AM band with no station present) but found it difficult to determine when RF interference was present. Tuning to a station with only decent reception (not an overly strong signal with very good reception) made it obvious to me when RF interference was present; the signal strength would decrease (sometimes going out completely), static would increase and a buzzing sound would begin.

Your method may work better for some than it did for me but I wanted you to know I appreciate your input.

Thanks,
Tim
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
I did initially try your recommended method (tuning to an area low on the AM band with no station present) but found it difficult to determine when RF interference was present.
Good! That provides further confirmation of your conclusion. If significant RF was being radiated it's pretty much inconceivable to me that you would not have perceived it under that condition, as some combination of static, noise, and buzzing, most likely at any reasonable setting of the volume control.

Best regards,
-- Al
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noble100
2,419 posts
 
Almarg,

That's good news. And, yes, I agree that I would have noticed any combo of static, noise and buzzing. None was present even at a fairly high (1/2 of max) volume.

Thanks for your assistance and verification,

Tim
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