Does this DAC require the volume control?

[Destroyer OS]

http://www.diyaudiosystem.com/

All the parts for this DAC with small pre-amp look nice.... It looks like it should compete with some rather expensive DAC's....

However the log pot in the parts list is a real junker. I would not want to use it.

Is it possible to adjust volume via computer, before the signal gets to the DAC? Mine has a non-software control that I like a lot and have been using. I hate pots because they ruin sound by degrading signal and screwing up timing.

If it is not possible I guess I could attach an attenuator, the only other real possibility.

 

[Nigel Goodwin]

I hate pots because they ruin sound by degrading signal and screwing up timing.

I don't know what you mean?.

If it is not possible I guess I could attach an attenuator, the only other real possibility.

A volume control IS an attenuator!.

 

[Eva]

Volume controls before a DAC are the true real junkers.

Some form of analog volume control is mandatory after the DAC in order to preserve signal to noise ratio at low volumes.

 

[Destroyer OS]

Stepped attenuator..... sorry.

Hm they cost a freaking fortune is what sucks. Unfortunately not enough to make me get some TVC transformers, but I do so wish for them.

The best volume control I have ever used is my computer non-software one. It works perfectly.

 

[Hara]

I believe software just tells the soundcard's digitally controlled solid state attenuator how much to attenuate. Either way there is still the attenuator, the sound is not being attenuated before the dac.