The problem with the choice of DAC

[Shoaibexpert]

Windows on 100 preferably. As for dac/amp, its best to manage volume with amp and keep dac maxed unless you have channel imbalances at low levels with more sensitive headphones in which case you can play around with digital volume.

It's all a case of what works best in your particular set-up.

Thanks

 

[pevzi]

As for dac/amp, its best to manage volume with amp and keep dac maxed

This is the typical recommendation I've always heard people give, and it made sense to me. But what surprised me a little bit is that the OL DAC manual suggests setting the digital volume "slightly below 100% at your computer". I suppose it's done as a measure against clipping at intersample peaks, perhaps?

 

[Veri]

This is the typical recommendation I've always heard people give, and it made sense to me. But what surprised me a little bit is that the OL DAC manual suggests setting the digital volume "slightly below 100% at your computer". I suppose it's done as a measure against clipping at intersample peaks, perhaps?

Yes, I think so. In windows when you can select 'volume' within device properties, you can right click the slider and select dB. There, you could put it on -3dB to protect against intersample overs, if you are concerned about them.

Some smart DACs already compensate for them. You might be compensating for it doubly so, but can't be too cautious I guess.