I have a Cambridge Audio AXR100 with a built-in DAC, and it seems like it's broken. I'm trying to decide whether I should buy an external DAC like an SMSL PS200 or try to get it fixed for nearly the same price as the external DAC. What would you do?
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Help me decide to buy an external DAC or fix the broken one.
- Thread starter hulcsa
- Start date
JeremyFife
Major Contributor
Hi, and welcome
Some additional detail would be helpful: what makes you think that the DAC is broken, and only the DAC? A little context on the rest of your system, source to speakers, is always useful too (and interesting)
Some additional detail would be helpful: what makes you think that the DAC is broken, and only the DAC? A little context on the rest of your system, source to speakers, is always useful too (and interesting)
- Thread Starter
- #3
Hi there!
Sure thing! The reason I think it's broken is that I get no sound from it when I try to use it with a digital input. I tried it with both Bluetooth and optical inputs and I got no sound whatsoever. When I used it with an analog input (RCA jack or radio) it worked fine. I use it with 2 passive speakers (Sonus Faber Lumina 1), and the source is mainly an LG TV with optical output.
Sure thing! The reason I think it's broken is that I get no sound from it when I try to use it with a digital input. I tried it with both Bluetooth and optical inputs and I got no sound whatsoever. When I used it with an analog input (RCA jack or radio) it worked fine. I use it with 2 passive speakers (Sonus Faber Lumina 1), and the source is mainly an LG TV with optical output.
Roland68
Major Contributor
Definitely get an external DAC; that way you'll be independent of your amplifier in the future.
Among the more affordable DACs, you could also take a look at the SMSL C100 with Bluetooth and remote control.
JSmith
Master Contributor
So what are you saying exactly... that it worked in the past and now doesn't (1), or is this the first time using it (2)?
If 1, well something is amiss... possibly the optical input is damaged etc.
If 2, what type of signal are you sending it... stereo PCM?
JSmith
JeremyFife
Major Contributor
There have been a few posts about problems with LG TVs: difficult to find settings, even sensitivity to different cables (don't get expensive ones, just try a different brand).
I'd be a little concerned that both Optical and Bluetooth had problems though. First step would be a deep dive into the manual and settings.
Is your amp still in warranty? If so perhaps a replacement is in order
I'd be a little concerned that both Optical and Bluetooth had problems though. First step would be a deep dive into the manual and settings.
Is your amp still in warranty? If so perhaps a replacement is in order
- Thread Starter
- #8
Thanks for all the responses! I've been using this system for years, and it worked fine with this setup. I tried and looked into every setting, did a factory reset, but nothing worked so far. Works well with RCA Jack though, that is how I am using it right now. The amp is past warranty sadly, and looking at the prices of a new unit of the same kind, I do not intend to replace it just yet. So assuming that the DAC is really broken what would you guys do?
JeremyFife
Major Contributor
Fair enough - get an external DAC - nothing at all wrong with the SMSL PS200, which measures very well, and be happy 
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