I purchased the A8 several weeks ago and I like it a lot. There is a learning curve due to the numerous options, like any new electronic gadget.
I do have one word of caution (after learning the hard way and possibly damaging my components in the process). I chose the option that sets the output volume (gain?) at max and I use my integrated amp for volume + and -. What I did not realize at first is that the analog input is pre-set to a +10db gain. When I hooked up my CDP’s analog outputs to the A8, I immediately got lots of popping and crackling at high volume and I thought there was something wrong with the cable or the player. I tried another cable and still had the same popping/crackling. I tried another CDP and still had the popping/crackling. I was at my wit’s end, thinking that the A8 was somehow defective.
I don’t know why, but I remember reading in the manual (yes, I read them) about the +10db gain in the analog input, but it made no mention of its relation to the volume setting option.
I changed the fixed volume option to variable and that’s when it became obvious. The volume indicator then showed -100 to 0db in yellow, and .5 to 10db in RED (looked like a tachometer in a car) and I was in the red. I turned the volume way down and immediately tried the analog inputs again. Everything was fine after that. Whew!
The user manual leaves a LOT to be desired, as there is no mention of this setting being a potential problem. I’m glad it didn’t result in any damage. Perhaps someone wiser than me would have known to check this first, but I’d never seen such a thing with any other streamers I’ve had (SONOS, etc).
Hope this helps someone avoid the same problem.
