Difference Direct-, Normal- polarity

[figge88]

Hi!

I'm kind of new to this with preamps, power amps and all that comes with the music interest.
I have a Parasound P/LD 1500 preamplifier and is about to connect it to my power amplifiers.
But I'm wondering whats the differece between the "Direct with fixed polarity" output, and the, "Normal switchable polarity" output?

Which of theese is suitable for amplifiers?
I'm going to use a active subwoofer as well, which output should I use for that one?

Thanks in advance
Fredrik

 

[Glowbug]

I would try it direct first, and listen using a track that tests phase...usually, a voice that's recorded in phase and then out of phase. If you need to switch it, use the switchable output 🙂

 

[figge88]

Ok, but what does it mean with Normal and Direct?
If the subwoofer itself has a switch for polarity, I guess it's preferable to connect it to the fixed polarity output?

 

[Glowbug]

I would guess that the direct doesn't have any switches in the signal path, while the "normal" output does.

 

[Kabal_MSU]

In case of Parasoun "Direct output" can also mean "with probable DC in signal". So, be careful.