Preamps that decode SACD?

[boe]

Are there any preamps that decode multichannel SACD through the optical connector? The system I was looking at had several RCA type cables connecting the DVD player to the preamp to get 5 channel surround SACD.

Thanks

 

[MDS]

Nope. SACD can only be passed via 6 analog cables, Firewire, or proprietary solutions like Denon Link.

 

[keenan]

Nope. SACD can only be passed via 6 analog cables, Firewire, or proprietary solutions like Denon Link.

6 analog cables--yes
IEEE1394(firewire)--yes
Denon Link--no

 

[boe]

Thanks - how is DVD-A passed?

 

[zumbo]

Same way!

 

[MDS]

6 analog cables--yes
IEEE1394(firewire)--yes
Denon Link--no

Didn't Denon just get approval for sacd over Denon link - at least for the upcoming sacd 2.0 specification? I know the press release said it still won't work for the current 1.3 spec.

 

[keenan]

Didn't Denon just get approval for sacd over Denon link - at least for the upcoming sacd 2.0 specification? I know the press release said it still won't work for the current 1.3 spec.

Correct, for the SACD 2.0 spec only. Nothing has changed as far as SACD 1.3 and Denon Link.

 

[Rob Babcock]

Ultimately it's not really that big an issue, unless your player has really crappy DACs or bad/incomplete bass managment. I realize the AH staff has mentioned that the reciever/prepro often has better DACs, but the DACs of many of the players are at least as good. To the point, at least, where you'd have a helluva time trying to A/B a diff.