Can I replace everything with a MOTU Ultralite or similar?

[Parker_knoll]

Hi all

I'm currently running a midpriced physically compact system that sounds extremely good to my ears after a period of research and experimentation. It is largely balanced and largely noise free, especially after I moved the vinyl preamp away from the other units.

Two sources:

1. Systemdek IIX turntable/Denon DL103r > Cambridge Alva Duo unbalanced > 2 x Symetrix Mono 3 band Parametric EQ* balanced > Arx Iso Switch
2. Topping DX7 Pro balanced > Arx Iso Switch

All to Genelec 8020 monitors + Genelec 7040 subwoofer

* I really find the EQ essential. I play a huge range of music often from quite small labels and it can be very badly pressed or mastered with overwhelming bass etc. It also allows me to compensate for the slightly rolled off high end on the DL103r. They also output a balanced signal into the monitors.

I'm a former audio engineer so I like balanced ins and outs

I am extremely happy with the sound BUT the Cambridge Alva Duo is too loud, especially in comparison to the DX7 Pro. There are volume controls on the Symetrix EQ but I have to work right at the bottom of the range plus adjust two knobs and hope the stereo is balanced. It also means I cannot bypass the EQ as the level would jump hugely.

I've been considering three solutions:

1. get a phono preamp with a volume control - could even be balanced
2. get a volume control, e.g. Heritage Audio Baby RAM - I did previously try a Drawmer Monitor Controller but it introduced noise at higher volume levels

HOWEVER
It occurred to me, if i was prepared to go digital, could I ditch everything except the vinyl preamp, and perhaps even that?

E.g.

1. Systemdek IIX turntable/Denon DL103r > Cambridge Alva Duo >
2. BT receiver >

MOTU Ultralite Mk V (receiving USB, BT and optical) > Genelec 8020 monitors + Genelec 7040 subwoofer

I could do the EQing inside the Ultralite, perhaps even run the turntable direct into it and apply RIAA equalisation inside the box. I can use an external BT receiver with optical of SPDIF out and that's it. I can sell the EQs, the DX7 Pro and maybe even the Alva Duo. I can also easily rip my vinyl records where required.

What do you think? Could it work?

 

[Keith_W]

Well yes it could work, except that I would advise against doing DSP in the Motu because it's extremely limited. Only 4 or 5 PEQ bands if I recall. That's enough for something really simple, like equalizing headphones, but it will not be enough for room correction. You will need some kind of computing device, maybe a PC or a Raspberry Pi.

And yes, you can implement an RIAA curve in DSP. I have been pondering how well that would work. Simply implementing the curve is really easy, but the difficult part is if you want to do any correction for the LP playback system, starting with how you are going to take measurements.

 

[Parker_knoll]

Yes, you need a computer or mobile device to access the DSP in the Motu. Other devices like Yamaha URX22 have a decent screen and are compact, but it's still a lot more faff than just tweaking the knobs on an analog unit which I do with every disc I put on.

Another option would be to digitise the vinyl signal after the EQs and run it into Topping and use that as master volume. That also bypasses the switch.