User manual TAG MCLAREN AUDIO DAC20

[. . . ] More bits in each group allow a more accurate representation of the music information during its processing. The DAC20 uses 24 bits (eight bits more than a CD's original recording), which results in higher signal resolution and more precise sound details. By its nature, digital data generates unwanted, high-frequency noise when it is converted back to the analogue domain (which is what our ears can hear). Even though the noise frequency is way above the threshold of human hearing, it has unpleasant effects on the sound due to what audio engineers call `intermodulation'. To remove this noise, the DAC20 uses a digital filter which is made more effective by oversampling and noise shaping the data. This technique reduces the high frequency noise by using an 8 times digital oversampling filter. The data from the filter is further oversampled, using noise shaping, to produce a 192 times single bit data stream for conversion back to analogue. 05 welcome welcome stable internal clock The timing of the data is as important as the data itself. Timing inaccuracy, known as `jitter', is responsible for a wide range of subtle distortions. [. . . ] All the inputs are on the back of your DAC20. Please ask your retailer for advice on selecting the best input format. Always use high-quality digital cables for connecting inputs. optical input XLR connectors are latched so you will hear a click when the plug is fully inserted. You have to press the button on the socket to remove the plug. Suitable 110 , balanced, digital interconnecting cables are available from your retailer. coaxial input The coaxial inputs conform to the SPDIF format and are intended to be used with 75 cable. Three independent coaxial inputs are provided. For your convenience two types of connector are used. COAXIAL INPUT 1 and 2 have phono sockets while INPUT 3 has a BNC socket. COAXIAL INPUT spdif 75 ohm 1 2 3 Optical inputs are provided to allow you to use your DAC20 with equipment which only has an optical output, such as certain models of MiniDisc and LaserDisc player. The optical inputs conform to the EIAJ RC-5720 format for optical cable(2). Three independent optical inputs are provided. The sockets are the rectangular TOSLINKTM type. Suitable interconnecting cables are available from your retailer. OPTICAL INPUT eiaj 1 2 3 aes/ebu input The AES/EBU format was developed for professional use in broadcasting and recording studios. It is transformer-coupled and uses balanced output to allow the use of long cables. An XLR socket is provided for this input. XLR INPUT aes/ebu 110 ohm bal 1. 2. The digital signal carries both stereo channels so only one connection is needed Avoid using the TOSLINKTM optical connection if you can. Limitations inherent in the optical standard mean that the full capability of your DAC20 will not be used 12 13 selecting an input muting Your DAC20 has seven digital inputs: Three coaxial, three optical and one AES/EBU. The sampling frequency is the number of times the data is updated in a second(1). automatic selection of sampling frequency The DAC20 detects the sampling frequency of the incoming digital data and automatically switches to the matching frequency. Three sampling frequencies are in common use for digital recording: 32, 44 . 1and 48 kHz(2). The active sampling frequency is indicated by one of three LEDs on the front panel marked 32kHz, 44kHz and 48kHz. 32kHz 44kHz 48kHz automatic HDCD® decoding The DAC20 recognises recordings made with HDCD® encoding and applies the appropriate decoding to make use of the improved music information. The LED on the front panel marked HDCD® illuminates when a recording with HDCD® encoding is being played. 1. 2. HDCD ® is a registered trademark of Pacific Microsonics Incorporated Ordinary CD players can play HDCD ® encoded discs but without the enhanced sound quality 1. [. . . ] If service is required, please contact your authorised TAG McLaren Audio retailer. If your DAC20 is still under guarantee, please refer to the guarantee card which gives you details on how to claim against the guarantee. Please keep the original packaging and use it whenever your DAC20 is transported. cleaning In order to maintain the appearance of your DAC20, you can clean it as follows: before cleaning, always disconnect your DAC20 from the AC supply. any grease or dirt on the case may be removed with a soft, lint-free cloth moistened slightly with a mild solution of warm water and detergent or washing-up liquid. [. . . ]