Those Input RCA jack Amp posts

[Doge]

What RCA amplifier inputs do I wire my DAC to - CD or Aux?

How are the input posts different? I see Aux, Phono, CD, Aux2 and other names. I get if I have a record player it should go to Phono, but what is the difference? My digital analog converter is supposed to put out an analog signal - right?

 

[ryanosaur]

The preamp inputs only differ by the signal voltage they are meant to recieve from the source device... CD players are something like 2 volts, for example. My guess is you would be fine using the aux inputs to your preamp. Do they mention in you dac manual the output voltage? Likewise, cross reference with your AVR manual to confirm what your inputs are designed for.

 

[JerryLove]

Firstly: It's worth noting that there there may be digital [SPDIF] inputs with coaxial (RCA) connectors. These are not interchangeable with the analog inputs that us the same connectors.

The other input that is rather specialized is the phono input. You should not use this input for other sources; nor should you attach a phonograph to other inputs without hardware in-between (there may be specialized phonographs that behave differently).

Beyond that: I've never had difficulty plugging what I want where I want it.

 

[Doge]

The preamp inputs only differ by the signal voltage they are meant to recieve from the source device... CD players are something like 2 volts, for example. My guess is you would be fine using the aux inputs to your preamp. Do they mention in you dac manual the output voltage? Likewise, cross reference with your AVR manual to confirm what your inputs are designed for.

Thank you. That brings up another subject. I can set the DAC at 1V, 2V or 3V (RMS). I then can adjust the output on my streamer (my USB port on my laptop in this case), and of course have a volume knob on the amp. So what is the ideal setting.
The amp is an integrated one, no separate pre-amp. I use this with headphones, and two desktop speakers at 3-4 ft away as I work. I know some would be anti-pc for streaming, but this is essentially my work system, so for anything from music, to phone calls.

 

[lovinthehd]

Thank you. That brings up another subject. I can set the DAC at 1V, 2V or 3V (RMS). I then can adjust the output on my streamer (my USB port on my laptop in this case), and of course have a volume knob on the amp. So what is the ideal setting.
The amp is an integrated one, no separate pre-amp. I use this with headphones, and two desktop speakers at 3-4 ft away as I work. I know some would be anti-pc for streaming, but this is essentially my work system, so for anything from music, to phone calls.

I'd think 1V should be sufficient for line inputs on your integrated amp (input sensitivity of 200mV is often spec'd for example) but what integrated amp do you have?

 

[Doge]

CaryAudio CAD-300SEI using the Chord Qutest DAC. And Lenovo Thinkpad P50 (Xeon 8 core - lots of performance room) docking station USB. Sony MDR-ZR1 headset and a bunch of Moon Audio cables.

I started with a Monotube amp 4 months ago - I thought it was great for the money and starting out. Then I got the BlueSound node 2i. MartinLogan Motion XT35 speakers (maybe the weak link now?). These are next to me as I worked on my computer and had to turn volume up/down for calls, plug and unplug headphones, mics headsets for work, call on my cell, web meetings on my computer - many know the drill. So coupled with my excuse (a valid one) to need better audio for my work and wanting to hear good music between calls/mute when called and do voice/Skype calls I'm making this all my computer audio system - with a Rode mic.

 

[lovinthehd]

The Cary indicates an input sensitivity of .42V for full output....

 

[Doge]

The Cary indicates an input sensitivity of .42V for full output....

I can't find that in their manual (I need 5 posts to do a link?)
Only:
CIRCUIT TYPE Single-ended, Class A
INPUTS CD, AUX 1, AUX2

Where did you find the .42V info, and it seems then DAC @1V to the CD port seems to be the recommendation.

Edit: Found it - right on their front page.
Input Sensitivity.42 Volt for full output

I assume that means any of the CD, AUX1, AUX2 and that 1V is OK

 

[MrBoat]

I have my PC to my DAC, to my CD - RCA inputs for one combination of components. Works fine. I have my actual CD player hooked to AUX, and it also works as it should. I think I chose it because the CD inputs were already taken and I didn't feel like unplugging it. The DAC does also work on AUX on my AVR. The only one I never use is phono. AUX and CD have been interchangeable on every amp I have had since CD was added to amps and such as far as I can recall.