How To Connect a DAC?
I have a NODE 3. The two RCA Analog Out connectors go to my R and L powered/active speakers. The Analog Sub Out RCA has a splitter, with each side going to a powered/active sub. This is a mono signal and connects to the R side of each sub.
I’m looking to buy a separate DAC. Most have XLR R and L Analog Outs, and RCA R and L Analog Outs. I’m wondering how I would connect my speakers and subs. My best guess is using 2 RCA splitters, I would connect one splitter to the R Analog Out to the R speaker and Sub 1 RCA R input. The other splitter would connect the L Analog Out to the L speaker and Sub 2 L input.
Any thoughts?
@soix You make some very good points! As to some degree I’m taking a shot in the dark, I never thought about buying new and returning if it’s not worthwhile. I’ll have to see if the ‘return’ is to China, as shipping could get expensive. |
I seriously considered the Gustard R26 on sale - but it is a lot of money for me. Also a return either because it was faulty or I didn’t like it would be to China, and no way am I going to take a risk on international shipping of an expensive electronic item. So, I bought a used SMSL M400. I’ll try it and learn something. If/when it goes, I will be out very little. My thinking is that new purchases should be a step up from the rest of my equipment, but a whole flight of stairs might be a waste of money. |
Well, I bought the SMSL M400 thinking, ‘it costs more than the entire NODE, and is bigger that the NODE, so as a DAC only it must be better than the little DAC in the NODE.’ This is what my untrained ear noticed with the new DAC: More bass - too much - I’ll turn down the subs More detail A wider difference in loudness between the quiet and loud passages The little errors in music like swipes on a guitar are more noticeable. Ending notes hang on longer as decay. So, I like the new DACand will experiment to get the sound better for my taste and ears. |
