Salas hotrodded blue DCB1 build

[AndrewT]

I don't have the knowledge to devise the tests required to prove the PSU is stable with input artifacts applied.

[jeffx]

I am finishing my DCB1 build, and since I use will use it with several different amps(one being Aleph 5 monos), I am building it with caps on the output. In post# 295 Salas says to put 1M resisters after the caps so the caps will not be floating. Does this mean to run the caps to the ouput+ and then run the resistors from here to the output-? This is how it appears in the Marra's build photo in post# 342.

[Salas]

Like this

[dtses]

I'm curious which 10k step attenuator to choose for the hot rod DCB1?
-4x24 Ladder Type
-23 step

is there any technical advantage in the Ladder?

Noticed that many built their buffers with LDRs, is there a dramatic improvement over Dale step attenuator?

[mike_mcf]

The ladder is simpler and much cheaper. I wanted the purest possible sound (fewest possible components in the signal path), so I went with the LDR (buildanamp.com). I relied on the advice of the DIYaudio members who have compared both and can hear a difference.

[dtses]

cheers Mike,

thanks for the link! I might consider LDR as well.

As I've understood the 2nd one I've listed is not of a ladder type, isn't it?

[KatieandDad]

If I understand correctly, the Ladder style attenuator is so called because each step uses two resistors, maintaining the input impedance to the same value at every step.

[schubert]

Originally Posted by dtses

cheers Mike,

thanks for the link! I might consider LDR as well.

As I've understood the 2nd one I've listed is not of a ladder type, isn't it?

Right, the second one is not a ladder, as it doesn't have enough resistors. It's a series type which works just like a conventional pot, only in increments.

[mike_mcf]

Originally Posted by KatieandDad

If I understand correctly, the Ladder style attenuator is so called because each step uses two resistors, maintaining the input impedance to the same value at every step.

Also there is a max of 2 resistors in the circuit at all times. If you do decide to go ladder and remote control is of interest, there are several board-based designs around. Most have more than 23 steps, which allows finer adjustment. A 23 step usually allows for 3dB adjustments where a ladder array can get you to 0.5dB.

[sorue]

Originally Posted by dtses

I'm curious which 10k step attenuator to choose for the hot rod DCB1?
-4x24 Ladder Type
-23 step

is there any technical advantage in the Ladder?

Noticed that many built their buffers with LDRs, is there a dramatic improvement over Dale step attenuator?

I didn't have any experience with those 2 attenuators you linked. I tried the other popular ebay dact clone. Then i decided to upgrade to the TKD 2511 (bought from percyaudio). The TKD is more expensive but it is MUCH better than those ebay attenuators and well worth the price. I think the DCB1 deserves a proper attenuator.