ol_mcdonald
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- Feb 8, 2020
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I was about to pull the trigger on an SMSL M500 DAC when I saw the news about the SMSL SU-9. I like the form factor better, it is balanced and has no headphone output. I have a pre-amp with a Cirrus Logic 42528 DAC, which isn't horrible but not great. I would like to retain the use of my Emotiva for CD playback and video functions. I plan to input my Emotiva Pre-Pro to a Kramer VS-X4 switch (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/250688-REG/Kramer_VS_4X_VS_4X_4x1_Balanced_Stereo.html) along with the SMSL SU-8 DAC. Then depending on output selected, to the DSP and on to my amplifiers in a fully balanced signal path for streaming playback, or via the Pre-Pro for CD and video duties.
Having said all that, I understand running USB through DAC balanced output produces max performance at full output (4v +/-). My noob question is this, is there an advantage in running the DAC at full volume to extract max chip performance, then through an external passive volume control like this? https://www.amazon.com/Nobsound-Ful...t=&hvlocphy=9013199&hvtargid=pla-496587361838
Am I just as well off to use the built in volume control on the SU-9 with reduced performance (below 4 volts)? Your input is appreciated!
Having said all that, I understand running USB through DAC balanced output produces max performance at full output (4v +/-). My noob question is this, is there an advantage in running the DAC at full volume to extract max chip performance, then through an external passive volume control like this? https://www.amazon.com/Nobsound-Ful...t=&hvlocphy=9013199&hvtargid=pla-496587361838
Am I just as well off to use the built in volume control on the SU-9 with reduced performance (below 4 volts)? Your input is appreciated!