Using Roon as DSP volume software

[Redwine]

I have a Dac linked directly to my power amplifier.

Since the Dac doesn’t have volume control itself, I have been adviced to use the DSP volume in my Roon software, which I am streaming from - my Dac has Roon Bridge build in.

Would this solution deteriorate the sound quality compared to replace with a Dac with volume option or alternative add a preamp to existing setup?

 

[staticV3]

Would this solution deteriorate the sound quality compared to replace with a Dac with volume option

Definitely not

or alternative add a preamp to existing setup?

Only if you're currently hearing hiss at your MLP which goes away when you disconnect the DAC.

 

[Redacted]

Sound quality debates aside, I don't fancy relying on a DAC/power amp combo to never unexpected;y come on far too loud and maybe damage speakers.
I assume Roon re-processes the digital files to lower their volume, or possibly adds RG tags that may be respected by end-points - I have no idea quite what it does, but sooner or later, it's possible that you connect some source to the DAC (without Roon being in control) that may then play at max volume. I'd always prefer a knob, or, as in my case, that, plus an amp with a user-definable max volume. I'm old and forgetful, but younger folk may know that they never make old geezer errors.

 

[Ultrasonic]

Sound quality debates aside, I don't fancy relying on a DAC/power amp combo to never unexpected;y come on far too loud and maybe damage speakers.

Loads of people do this without issue. Not with Roon but I do as per the equipment list in my signature, and have done so with various equipment over about the last 7 years just fine. Just check the volume setting before pressing play if your gain structure is such that full volume is a problem.

 

[Redacted]

Loads of people do this without issue. Not with Roon but I do as per the equipment list in my signature, and have done so with various equipment over about the last 7 years just fine. Just check the volume setting before pressing play if your gain structure is such that full volume is a problem.

Yes, I'm sure ASR people know what they are doing!