Analog XLR or AES/EBU into Genelec 8361A ?

[ZKGA]

Hi Guys,

I'm wondering if I can improve the signal quality going to my speakers and maybe simplify my system. This system is only used to stream music (Pandora and Qobuz from phone and laptop) and is going from a Bluesound N130 to a Benchmark DAC3B and into a Benchmark LA4 preamp. I'm using the analog XLR outputs to go to Genelec 8361A's. I've heard a couple people mention that I would get better signal quality running AES/EBU into the Genelecs? Given that I'm only streaming, is there a "front end" that would offer better signal path and replace the Benchmark? maybe reduce the component count ?

Thanks,
Greg

 

[voodooless]

Just get a RCA to XLR cable and try it for yourself. Genelec speakers generally work fine with a normal SPDIF signal on the AES input.

It will skip the DAC->ADC bits that are now in your chain. Most likely you will not notice a difference, but in theory it will give you a cleaner signal chain.

 

[Mort]

Signal quality probably not with that setup.

You are likely to get a little gain out of it though, if that's helpful.

 

[formdissolve]

If you remove the two Benchmark from the chain, you will have to rely on digital volume on the Bluesound or Genelec app (or physical controls on the speakers). It's not impossible, but can be an inconvenience.

 

[ZKGA]

Thanks for the replies. they helped me find some different options. I'm going to try the Hosa CDL-313 SPDIF to AES converter to allow running directly from the streamer to the speakers. As noted above, volume control will be through the Blusound app ...

 

[Mort]

Thanks for the replies. they helped me find some different options. I'm going to try the Hosa CDL-313 SPDIF to AES converter to allow running directly from the streamer to the speakers. As noted above, volume control will be through the Blusound app ...

If you aren't running a long length, an RCA to XLR cable is all that's needed.

I use a neutrik passive converter myself but it's really unnecessary.

 

[ZKGA]

I ordered that as well from Thomann (coax/RCA to AES) the cables were cheap enough to have it as another option to try.