Hi, Dimdim,
Could you elaborate a bit about why a filter with 3db headroom is more desirable? Also what filter would you recommend for Soekris? Thanks.
WYAN
Could you elaborate a bit about why a filter with 3db headroom is more desirable? Also what filter would you recommend for Soekris? Thanks.
WYAN
Paul (former diyaudio.com member) has done an excellent writeup on inter-sample clipping and its implications on the DAM. It can be found here: Back to the Future: inter-sample clipping and headroom | moreDAMfilters
I myself use the second filter from this filters pack: EQHQ variations v1 | moreDAMfilters
Beware that it is relatively old and thus not DSD compatible.. I don't really listen to DSD files so I haven't really auditioned the newer filters that are available.
I myself use the second filter from this filters pack: EQHQ variations v1 | moreDAMfilters
Beware that it is relatively old and thus not DSD compatible.. I don't really listen to DSD files so I haven't really auditioned the newer filters that are available.
That was my first setup, 2x15V 1A and the LT3042 from DIYINHK on 12V.
Lots of heat on the LT3042 and also on the dac.
Now i use 2x9V and LT3042 on 9V, no more heat. Sounds even better (less stress).
Nice to hear Soren confirm that 9V is enough.
One more question regarding the output. 🙂
We have the choice of the RAW SE output or a balanced one. Is there anything to gain by adding a buffer/output stage to the single ended out? Building the buffer (phase splitter?) could be fun but if it's just unnecessary or even likely to degrade the sound, then it would be a little like shooting yourself in the foot and paying for the privilege to do it.
I've been wanting to play around with tubes but I don't want to be stupid, lol. My amps have a fully differential input.
We have the choice of the RAW SE output or a balanced one. Is there anything to gain by adding a buffer/output stage to the single ended out? Building the buffer (phase splitter?) could be fun but if it's just unnecessary or even likely to degrade the sound, then it would be a little like shooting yourself in the foot and paying for the privilege to do it.
I've been wanting to play around with tubes but I don't want to be stupid, lol. My amps have a fully differential input.
Sounds like your setup is a good candidate for dual-mono. I run raw outputs straight to headphone buffer and amplifier, no longer using the onboard buffers.
Another view - I only use the RAW output. It drives a Slagle autoformer attenuator which then drives two stereo amplifiers and an electronic crossover. It seems to drive this with ease. My speakers are very high efficiency which might make a difference.
I tried using the same buffer circuit Pass uses in the FIRST WATT buffer (with a much better power supply) and found it sounded better without the buffer in the top half of the spectrum. Conversely, it had much better defined bass.
I then moved the buffer after the attenuator into the lead that goes to the amplifier and crossover that handles 500 hz down and I am getting the good that heard from a buffer right after the DAC without harming the upper frequencies.
The raw output is robust. I think you will need to try in your system to find out what works best.
No dual mono setup for me, too pricy and I'm not even sure there is any real benefit in this instance.
So, my idea about running a tube phase splitter isn't a complete disaster? I like the glow... 🙂
So, my idea about running a tube phase splitter isn't a complete disaster? I like the glow... 🙂
IMHO I find it hard to believe that anything tube-related will actually improve the DAM's sound..
I'm not contesting that, the "tube sound" is all about a specific kind of distortion. The irony would be that some of the best tube amps doesn't sound "tuby" which in self defeats the purpose of a tube amp to a certain degree.
But back on topic, buffer for the output, good or bad?
But back on topic, buffer for the output, good or bad?
There is one buffer built in already. You can start with to compare that with the raw out. The try to build a better buffer than whats there. Many said: less good.
Hursky bursky buffer stew 🙂
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Hursky bursky buffer stew 🙂
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Rick, I'm curious, did you try using the built-in digital volume straight to the amps? How did it compare to the Slagleformers?
I am a fan of TVC/AVC attenuation but have been living happily with the digital volume control. A friend for whom I put together a 1021 is a tube adherent but ended up putting his tube preamp in storage after hearing the 1021 straight into his power amps.
I second that - but apparently Lampizator disagrees. And at quite a price.....
Oh well, all roads to the river (with apologies to Janis Ian).
It's just a quirk of mine, I like challenging modern problems with stone age tech. Tubes done well can go toe to toe with transistors but forget about the tube part for now.
Is it worthwhile designing a buffer stage for the output or is it better to just stick with the RAW output as it is?
Is it worthwhile designing a buffer stage for the output or is it better to just stick with the RAW output as it is?
IMHO if the DAM's 1V RMS output is enough for your preamp or amp, and if your preamp or amp is a relatively easy load, it's best to avoid adding a buffer (or preamp) stage.
Adding a buffer stage will give you (for the most part) immunity from cable & load characteristics but if not done extremely well it will degrade the sound.
Adding a buffer stage will give you (for the most part) immunity from cable & load characteristics but if not done extremely well it will degrade the sound.
Using raw outputs directly into a class a poweramp. Digital volume control. Never looked back. My tube gear rests in the closet
If buffer is not needed - then of course it will sound best without. But i cant understand why people here buy a discrete DAC and then talk bad about tubes... personally i see alot common between them.
This, have been running straight to the amps since my initial setup. The digital volume attenuation doesn't cost anything and the less stuff in the audio chain the better IMO.
All of my tube gear was single ended thus went away when I went balanced end to end, that and having to pay an electric bill since moving was the final nail in the coffin.
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This depends what you are feeding with it. The unbuffered output is too weak to drive 10k input of my Genelecs convincingly. I have a very nice 2A3 tube amp as pre, and it's different story. Soundstage gets 50% bigger and dynamics are noticeably better/explosive. Only tiny downside/or coloration is the slight wetness to it. And in my experience no solid state competes as buffer or preamp with tubes. Solid state ultimately is veiled or dull in comparison to best tube amps.