Preamp: is ATC CA2 a good match for ATC40A?

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CleanCopperz

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Looks interesting. Well I will test the CA2 and see if I like it. I actually prefere the neutral clinical sound. I want to get close as possible to the studio where the source was recorded/produced.
 
But if I understand correctly this doesnt really bypass the preamp does it?

A DAC is not a DAC without some "amplification" or else how would it be able to transfer sound?

I seriously need some HiFi education
A DAC should output a line level analogue signal that can then be amplified, yours is a bit more than a straight DAC so this procedure sets up a fixed line level output from your device......
 
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CleanCopperz

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A DAC should output a line level analogue signal that can then be amplified, yours is a bit more than a straight DAC so this procedure sets up a fixed line level output from your device......

I see thank you very much.....and this is why I am now in a need for the real one. Straight DAC.

Requirements:
1. Should match with Preamp ATC CA2....so rca out on the DAC.
2. Remote just to turn it on and off
3. Price..... around 4500 dollars
4. No Chi-fi

For some reason I just don´t want anything that reminds me of a turd in the name, if you know what I mean :)

The one I found so far:
Benchmark DAC3
 
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I see thank you very much.....and this is why I am now in a need for the real one. Straight DAC.

Requirements:
1. Should match with Preamp ATC CA2....so rca out on the DAC.
2. Remote just to turn it on and off
3. Price..... around 4500 dollars
4. No Chi-fi

For some reason I just don´t want anything that reminds me of a turd in the name, if you know what I mean :)

The one I found so far:
Benchmark DAC3
Unfortunately there are a great number within your budget.....can you get to audition any?
Ignore that, just seen many that I thought did do not have a remote, guess some are designed to be left on.
 
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CleanCopperz

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Yes... The ones I saw with remote controls seem to be DAC/headphone amplifiers
Bel Canto or Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ might be worth looking into, I know they tend to come with remote controls

Well if it is only DAC function and it doesnt use that many WATT its ok. Then I can ditch the remote
 

CleanCopperz

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I have looked at Belcantos site before...I see nothing but confusion. Really bad web layout. Bad name convention of there products

I am very allergic when it comes to these challanges. I get turned off the product.
 
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CleanCopperz

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This thing looks pretty interesting....

EDIT: hmmm it still has a preamp
 

CleanCopperz

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Well. Either way I will update my experience with CA2 + 40A.

it is so easy to get confused.

people are saying not to preamp etc.


But then why are musician using a DI box before the input…approved to be better(my own ears)

This should not sound better according to the non-preampers
 
Well. Either way I will update my experience with CA2 + 40A.

it is so easy to get confused.

people are saying not to preamp etc.


But then why are musician using a DI box before the input…approved to be better(my own ears)

This should not sound better according to the non-preampers
I have no idea where you are going.
There is only so much you can plug directly into those speakers, if you need to add other peripherals you need a preamp or some sort of source selector.
 

russell2022

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CleanCopperz

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Preamping the RME with a CA2 is a pointless expense, unless you are need to use it as a volume control for other analogue sources. You will not get "better sound". RME can and works great connected straight into active speakers.

I am only gonna audition it to start with.

I think the RME is very thin in the sound. Also not very “powerful” at low volume.

Do you have any recommendation?
 

russell2022

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RME is completely neutral in the sound! However it has a wide range of filters and parametric EQ if you want to favourably alter the signal. The balanced output is 4 volts - sorry, but that is VERY powerful.
I recommend the Croft as in my earlier posts but ONLY if you're using other sources as well as the RME.
RME>balanced outs >ATC actives. Simple is best
 

CleanCopperz

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I dont think most people who only recommends the rme are realizing the issue I have.

the RME ADi-2 sounds good with SCM7 and SCM19. But 40A is a different kind of beast!

I can not explain it but its like it needs double what RME can give. It needs a wider soundstage.
 

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