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Cambridge 840C as a DAC

Is anyone using the digital inputs on their 840C as a DAC for computer or server based music. If so, what is the specific set up and, more importantly, how does it sound?

Looking at my laptop, it does not have a Toslink out so I am curious to know how I'd connect it.

Thanks!
grimace

Showing 2 responses by magfan

magfan
1,583 posts
 
WOW, am I glad I spotted this thread.

I am experimenting with Airport Express, to optical / CA840c and by balanced to my stereo. All files are Apple Lossless some recorded w/error correction ON. The 840c says the bitstream is 18bit, 44.1khz.....is That correct?

Problem is that every once in a while the stereo emits a very Glassy, edgy, fingers on chalkboard sound. It doesn't repeat if I 'rewind' and play that section of the song a 2nd time.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Apple is clueless, so far, and I have yet to hear back from Cambridge.
magfan
1,583 posts
 
If you could give me even a HINT of theory as to how the TOSLINK could do this, I'll run out and get another!

I first thought it was 'too loud'. turning down didn't help
I though it could be poor digital copy. Error correction didn't help @confuser
I thought it could be bitrate, so I turned the computer buffer to Large.
Trying MP3 @160kb made it WORSE.

Still trying to make sense of this.

ANY more help? / Suggestions?

I doubt Cambridge can help and nobody at Apple has a clue, apparently.
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