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Need DAC with parametric EQ, 4.1 and sub pairing

Deluxillo

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Dec 24, 2020
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Hey everyone,

I’m looking for a DAC that can handle parametric EQ, a 4.1 setup, and allow me to pair 2x JBL 305p, 2x Genelec 8030c, and an SVS SB-2000 Pro subwoofer. Ideally, I’d like something that can provide flexibility for room correction and precise control over the frequency response of each speaker.
 
The cheapest option would be something like

the t.racks DSP 206 at 270€​

incredible value but you only get parametric EQ.
Minidsp Flex HTx is indeed the best option, however with the Dirac Live licence it's pretty expensive, something like 1500€ for the lot I think.
 
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The cheapest option would be something like

the t.racks DSP 206 at 270€​

incredible value but you only get parametric EQ.
Minidsp Flex HTx is indeed the best option, however with the Dirac Live licence it's pretty expensive, something like 1500€ for the lot I think.
I’m only interested in being able to equalize like I do with APO Equalizer. As long as I can EQ each speaker separately and integrate the sub, I don’t need anything more. The cheaper, the better.

One thing I don’t like about that model is that it has a lot of lights. Can they be turned off?
 
I’m only interested in being able to equalize like I do with APO Equalizer. As long as I can EQ each speaker separately and integrate the sub, I don’t need anything more. The cheaper, the better.

One thing I don’t like about that model is that it has a lot of lights. Can they be turned off?
No, you'll have to deal with the lights, can't ask too much, it's already incredible to get a dsp at this price point. If you want to have an idea of what kind of performance and software you'll get, have a look at the review of its little brother there
 
@Deluxillo FYI, the t.racks has only two input channels, so cannot do surround sound.

It also cannot be easily connected to your subwoofer, as XLR->RCA is a lot more troublesome than RCA->XLR.
 
@Deluxillo FYI, the t.racks has only two input channels, so cannot do surround sound.

It also cannot be easily connected to your subwoofer, as XLR->RCA is a lot more troublesome than RCA->XLR.
Indeed, I'm surprised the SVS doesn't have XLR inputs. There are converters (Line isolators) available though but I don't know how good they'd be, that's an added cost to take into account.
 
miniDSP Flex HTx.

Or, if you're fine with connecting the JBL and Genelec via RCA->XLR, miniDSP Flex Eight/Flex HT.
Is there any downside to using RCA to XLR cables?

I’ve been trying to figure out whether the HT or the Eight would be better for my needs, but I’m too inexperienced to understand the differences. I plan to use the audio system with a TV (S90D 2024), a PC, and a gaming console. Which one would be more suitable for me? Will I need to buy any additional cables?

Thank you very much!
 
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Is there any downside to using RCA to XLR cables?
If you use the right cables, then no:
2conductorsor3 (1).png rca-xlr_corr (1).png

Another ASR member made his own cables out of regular XLR cable to ensure the right cable construction, which ultimately did the trick:
 
I was wondering… Is it possible to use my PC as a DAC/DSP and apply that to my console and TV setup? I’d like to ensure I can also integrate the subwoofer and 4.1 configuration in the process
 
I was wondering… Is it possible to use my PC as a DAC/DSP and apply that to my console and TV setup?
If you manage to route all console and TV audio through the PC, then yes.
Easier said than done.
 
I’ve been trying to figure out whether the HT or the Eight would be better for my needs, but I’m too inexperienced to understand the differences. I plan to use the audio system with a TV (S90D 2024), a PC, and a gaming console. Which one would be more suitable for me? Will I need to buy any additional cables?
The Flex HT is capable of up to 8ch surround sound input, the Flex Eight only supports Stereo input.

Using its ARC input, the Flex HT also supports better integration with your TV, enabling volume control via the TV remote and auto On/Off with the TV.
 
I was wondering… Is it possible to use my PC as a DAC/DSP and apply that to my console and TV setup? I’d like to ensure I can also integrate the subwoofer and 4.1 configuration in the process
Yes but you need 4ch+ ADC / DAC for this. The MOTU M4 or Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 might work, but in this case there's no dedicated sub out so you might need to go for a 6x6 interface.

Going this route you'll probably find it much more difficult and only a little cheaper than just getting a MiniDSP box.
 
Yes but you need 4ch+ ADC / DAC for this. The MOTU M4 or Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 might work, but in this case there's no dedicated sub out so you might need to go for a 6x6 interface.

Going this route you'll probably find it much more difficult and only a little cheaper than just getting a MiniDSP box.
And just with a motherboard that support multichannel shouldn’t work?

In Spain the Flex HT is 800€…
 
The Flex HT is capable of up to 8ch surround sound input, the Flex Eight only supports Stereo input.

Using its ARC input, the Flex HT also supports better integration with your TV, enabling volume control via the TV remote and auto On/Off with the TV.
I’m going to buy the home HT. Do you have any specific recommendations for the cables? I’m worried about buying something that won’t work. The setup will include 4 speakers, a subwoofer, a console, a PC, and a TV, all connected to the miniDSP.
 
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