|
With four digital inputs and three analog outputs, the Beresford TC-7520 DAC is very versatile and can be incorporated into many different types of 2-channel music and multi-channel (e.g. Dolby 5.1) home theater systems.
The "Configurations" pages provide information on connecting the Beresford TC-7520 to some of the more common devices such as Mac computers, Windows-based PC's, iPods and DVD players.
The front panel allows you to easily select among the four digital inputs.
The three analog outputs allows you to:
- Connect to a 2-channel or multi-channel receiver or preamp via the Line (Fixed) output - volume controlled by receiver or preamp
- Connect to a power amp or powered speakers via the Preamp (Variable) output - volume controlled by the TC-7520
- Connect to headphones via the front panel headphone jack - volume controlled by the TC-7520 and the Preamp (Variable) analog output automatically muted
As for which input method is "Best", it depends.
Some devices such as Windows-based PC's, the only choice may be USB.
Other devices such as Mac® computers and DVD players, there may be more than one option (i.e. more than one digital output available). In those cases, here are our suggestions, assuming that 1) you want to get the best possible audio sound and 2) your music or home theater system is sensitive enough to pick up on the slight improvements each connector provides.
Best - digital coax (RCA - SPDIF)
Better - digital optical (TOSLINK)
Good - USB 1.1/2.0 (no custom drivers required - just plug and play)
If your music files are high resolution (e.g. 24-Bit/96kHz), then digital coax or optical is the way to go.
If you are "ripping" your CD collection (i.e. standard Redbook CD at 16-bit/44.1kHz), then all input connections will work properly, including the USB input, which supports 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz sample rates with a maximum word length of 16-bits.
If you plan to use the USB connection, try to use a "decent" USB cable, something better than the standard USB cable commonly used with computer systems. We have found that there is dramatic sound quality improvement in doing so. We are not sure why this is because you are basically just transferring "0" and "1" data from your computer but it does seem to make a noticeable difference. We are currently working with AudioQuest in providing a quality USB cable to our customers.
Mac is trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. |
