Problem with TagMcLaren DAC 20

[admin_exported]

I have discovered a problem with my DAC 20. When in my system, with no CD playing, if I turn up the volume - noise appears on the speakers. When CD unit fed straight into amp (ie, no DAC) and volume turned up - no noise. Is it worth repairing? Unit is 6 years old approx... I am thinking of getting a new CD player as existing unit is 11 years old. and would DAC in new unit be just as good as DAC 20. I currently use an Arcam 8 CD with Audiolab amp I would think of buying the Audiolab 8000CD.

Thoughts appreciated..

 

[DistortedVision]

Hi JNP,

I've never come across this problem with my DAC20 but I do have a few suggestions. There are two sets of output sockets on the DAC20 - try the other set. Are you using optical or coaxial to connect from your CD player to the DAC20? Try a different input socket, different interconnects and a different digital cable.

Also try a different digital source eg another CD player, DVD player, Freeview box etc. See if you get any noise from those. By the way, what is the nature of the noise?

If none of these fix it then there is an independent company that specialises in repairing Tag and Audiolab but the name escapes me at the moment.

For reference here is a link to the user manual if you dont' have it already:

http://www.iaguk.com/tag/dac20instructions.pdf

Let me know how you get on.

Good luck!

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply. The noise appears even if I have NO CD attached. My CD does not have an optical output link and I hope to borrow one that does. I agree with you on the price charged to fix the unit - very expense!! It's unusual, but it is a great unit - when working properly. I thought it maybe mains hum and will look at using a quality power cable.

 

[DistortedVision]

Did you try the other output sockets when connecting to your amplifier? Also try different interconnects just to check.

 

[Andrew Everard]

Repairs? Try The Audio Cellar

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the recommendation. tried other inputs - just getting my hands on a CD with optical output to try.

 

[DistortedVision]

Sorry I think you misunderstand. If you look at the back of your DAC20 there are two sets of outputs. I was suggesting that you try the other set with different interconnects. Also try different a different set of input sockets on your amplifier. I don't think the issue is the CD player but its still worth checking to eliminate it from your investigations.