Bypassing processors DPS

[Bob Leonard]

Bypass on a Surround Sound Processor. Why does the sound, sound different with each brand of processor? I have used the same CD/DVD player for each, using the left and right analog out from my CD/DVD. I thought using bypass that the dac’s on the CD/DVD would be providing the sound signature and not to processors. I have used Krell HTS 7.1, Integra Research RDC-7, Lexicon’s MC-12, MC-8, MC-4, and Classe SSP-60. They have a different sound. My preference is the Krell. Why do they not all have the same sound signature?

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

Ether some of them are not fully bypassing the sound or the levels are not matched exactly are most likely explanations.

 

[Bob Leonard]

I have used a Radio Shack sound pressure meter to level the sound. I would have to guess that the manufactures that I mentioned are of high quality, and are truly a bypassing design. I was thinking of using "buying" an external DAC. However if I am getting different results with different Surround Sound Processors.

 

[j_garcia]

Explain "bypass"? Are you using analog for the CD player?

External DAC is going to do the same thing.

 

[Bob Leonard]

When I mean bypass, all the internal dac's,and dsp circuits are bypassed in the processor. You would use this type of setup let's in a DVD/Audio or Super Audio CD's in the 5.1 analog inputs of the processor. The CD/DVD player is doing all the digital to analog conversion, and passing the analog to the processors via the RCA out of the CD/DVD player to the analog RCA inputs of the processors.

 

[everettT]

I can't see why they would sound different unless it's being reprocessed in the preprocessor. Are you using the multi channel inputs or are you using the analog inputs?

 

[Bob Leonard]

I am currently using a Lexicon MC-12 v5 processor. I was using a Krell HTS 7.1 before the MC-12. The internal dac's are being bypass altogether in Lexicon in any of the analog input, 2channel, or the 5.1 channel input. The difference in sound between to two is very subtle. But there is a difference in the sound.

 

[Bob Leonard]

From the lexicon MC-12 owners manual.
2CH BYPASS
• Designed for playback of 2-channel analog sources.
• Sends analog audio input signals to the Main Zone audio
output connectors labeled Front L/R. These signals receive no
internal processing.

 

[j_garcia]

I've found they all DO have subtle differences for whatever reason. Stick with the sound of the one you like and enjoy the music.

 

[agular]

I will experiment with a PS Audio DAC.
Yes I am enjoying the music. At least 6 hours a day. Us retirees have all the fun.