DAC component layout

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Jcris

Jcris

Member
Joined 2007
Paid Member
#1
Hey and happy new year,
I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to organize my dac components. I’m concerned about the proximity of mains input module to output rca’s.
Can the module be closer to the rca’s with issues?
 

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#6
TNT said:
Put mains in own box. Send DC.

//
Click to expand...

This would be the most optimal solution. You could use ferites on the DC between the boxes.

The alternative is AC on one side then the rca and dac down the other with a large gap in the centre. Add shielding for both near to each side.
I note you’re not using a IEC mains filter? (Fastest removal of noise before it gets into the box)

RCA <- digital <-
========= shield ========

========= shield ========
AC in (filter) -> AC PSU -> DC

However a separate box makes separating digital and analogue easier in the layout. You may want some local DC conditioning but that’s something you xan add later if needed.
If you do go down the two box note that shielding reduces noise so if you stack the boxes then keep the audio and the transformer/ac as far apart (inverse square law means AC/noise radiated will drop off over distance) but pay attention to ground paths and use ground between the boxes (don’t rely on the shielding of cables as a ground).
 
Last edited:
#7
NickKUK said:
This would be the most optimal solution. You could use ferites on the DC between the boxes.

The alternative is AC on one side then the rca and dac down the other with a large gap in the centre. Add shielding for both near to each side.
I note you’re not using a IEC mains filter? (Fastest removal of noise before it gets into the box)

RCA <- digital <-
========= shield ========

========= shield ========
AC in (filter) -> AC PSU -> DC

However a separate box makes separating digital and analogue easier in the layout. You may want some local DC conditioning but that’s something you xan add later if needed.
If you do go down the two box note that shielding reduces noise so if you stack the boxes then keep the audio and the transformer/ac as far apart (inverse square law means AC/noise radiated will drop off over distance) but pay attention to ground paths and use ground between the boxes (don’t rely on the shielding of cables as a ground).
Click to expand...
An iec main’s filter will happen. That switch combo is all I have at the moment. This was a working dac until I decided to add an on/off. I really wanted to get the power cord on the back panel which is where the rca’s and usb port also need to be. I’ve seen a number of builds where that layout seems acceptable. I could put the on/off on the front and just have the iec on the back. Doesn’t seem like that would be much better. I’m not liking the separate box idea, already kinda busy with all the ics and power cords. This is just a mock up as this dac will continue to change. There’s a Zen IV in the near future which will get a separate power supply. Which means I should just put the switch combo on the other end and just get it back in service. It’s gonna change again anyway.
🤔
 
#8
I would put the transformer back in the corner near the power inlet. You would need to extend the leads on the output end to reach. Twist the AC pairs in to and out of the transformer. Orient the transformer for least radiation towards the analog circuitry, but I don't know which way with that type.
I would also consider putting the RCA pair closer together, so there would be more distance between the transformer and the nearest RCA.
 
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