USB audio output

[chaosrealm93]

hey all,

if im plugging my laptop into a preamp with an asynchronous USB DAC, the quality of my computer's motherboard shouldnt be an issue since its only sending data right? (same with the USB cable, as long as it complies with USB 2.0 specs)?

also should i leave the output volume on my computer to max and control volume using the preamp's controls? does this make a difference in SQ?

thanks!

 

[PENG]

As long as you use the correct driver and configure your media player such as Foobar, yes. If you computer is a Mac then you most likely don't need to download and configure a driver depending on your DAC.

 

[chaosrealm93]

As long as you use the correct driver and configure your media player such as Foobar, yes. If you computer is a Mac then you most likely don't need to download and configure a driver depending on your DAC.

yes, its a macbook (forgot to clarify)

what about adjusting the volume using the laptop controls? would transmitting at lower than 100% volume degrade the signal due to the extra processes necessary for attenuating the volume?

 

[slipperybidness]

yes, its a macbook (forgot to clarify)

what about adjusting the volume using the laptop controls? would transmitting at lower than 100% volume degrade the signal due to the extra processes necessary for attenuating the volume?

On paper, yes, digital volume control typically "throws away bits". In practice, I can't say that I have ever REALLY heard a major difference.

Just to play it safe, for critical listening, I max out my PC audio and use my pre-amp to control volume. If I'm not critical listening, then I will control the volume with whatever device is closest to me.

One of the main constraints for USB connections--15 feet is the MAX length that you should use for a USB cable.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

yes, its a macbook (forgot to clarify)

what about adjusting the volume using the laptop controls? would transmitting at lower than 100% volume degrade the signal due to the extra processes necessary for attenuating the volume?

FIY:
Your's macbook headphone port has interesting magic trick up it's sleeve (most models supported)
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202730

 

[2channel lover]

In this case I would say yes...leave the Mac volume on max and control the gain on your pre amp.

But...when I connect my HP laptop to my Marantz via airplay/itunes I find it best to have the laptop volume at 50%. The gain is artificially high on the pre pro when I leave the laptop at 100%....normally 45-50 on the Marantz equates to 80 (peak) dB output on my SPL meter...at 100% that same volume on 6-7 dB higher reading.

Not so when I connect the JRiver media player via asyn usb or via network on the Oppo205...100% on the JRiver player does not effect the prepro gain much.