Topic: Benchmark DAC1 question

[ts]

I finally got around to trying balanced cables with my DAC1. What I didn't realize is that the balanced XLR outputs are pretty much line level and the trim dials do nothing to the gain. So I guess if you want to use balanced headphone cables the gain is what it is? I like to crank it.

[DigiGal]

There are jumpers inside the DAC1 to match the XLR line level output to fit your powered speakers or amp to speaker chain. 

I use the XLR outputs of My DAC1 feeding the XLR inputs of my powered monitor speakers and I control the overall level/volume from the DAC1 so the rear panel switch is set to volume.  The level/volume control of the DAC1 also still controls the level of the headphones.  I don't run/listen to headphones with the speakers on so there's no conflict there, you can run your cans at a different level but if they require a higher level setting than your amp/speakers then you'll need to be sure to turn it down before turning on your amp/speakers.  The way I'm setup headphone level setting is really pretty much the same as for my powered speakers with the K14 scale of K-System convention.

[ts]

There are jumpers inside the DAC1 to match the XLR line level output to fit your powered speakers or amp to speaker chain. 

I use the XLR outputs of My DAC1 feeding the XLR inputs of my powered monitor speakers and I control the overall level/volume from the DAC1 so the rear panel switch is set to volume.  The level/volume control of the DAC1 also still controls the level of the headphones.  I don't run/listen to headphones with the speakers on so there's no conflict there, you can run your cans at a different level but if they require a higher level setting than your amp/speakers then you'll need to be sure to turn it down before turning on your amp/speakers.  The way I'm setup headphone level setting is really pretty much the same as for my powered speakers with the K14 scale of K-System convention.

Thanks Sharon. So using the XLR's really doesn't make any sense for head phones, unless you like low volumes. I guess I'll go back to the front panel outputs. Are you going to Buffalo next week?

[DigiGal]

There are jumpers inside the DAC1 to match the XLR line level output to fit your powered speakers or amp to speaker chain. 

I use the XLR outputs of My DAC1 feeding the XLR inputs of my powered monitor speakers and I control the overall level/volume from the DAC1 so the rear panel switch is set to volume.  The level/volume control of the DAC1 also still controls the level of the headphones.  I don't run/listen to headphones with the speakers on so there's no conflict there, you can run your cans at a different level but if they require a higher level setting than your amp/speakers then you'll need to be sure to turn it down before turning on your amp/speakers.  The way I'm setup headphone level setting is really pretty much the same as for my powered speakers with the K14 scale of K-System convention.

Thanks Sharon. So using the XLR's really doesn't make any sense for head phones, unless you like low volumes. I guess I'll go back to the front panel outputs. Are you going to Buffalo next week?

You're welcome Tony!  Correct the balanced outputs are not intended for headphones.  Love the DAC1, it's a great unit and form factor.  I saw their new model (DAC2 HGC) at the AES show back in October, it looks even sweeter adding some features of a dedicated monitor controller that would be nice.  Real steep in price though so I don't see myself switching over to it, the DAC1 is fine and my DAW software already offers the extra monitor controller features Benchmark added.

I didn't get tickets for Buffalo or for any of the shows this tour, I was partially afraid the weather would make travel unpleasant and I missed out of the pre-sales.  I kind of kicking myself for it now even though the weather has been poor this winter so I am open to the Buffalo show at this point.  Do you know anyone with an extra Taper Ticket?  Are you going to be at the Buffalo show and/or which shows did you get for this run?   I don't know if Buffalo is a GA show or may even have sold out by now as some of the shows have been.