DAC placement


Does it make much of a difference where an outboard DAC is placed?--should it be on a separate shelf?

Im using my cd as a transport connected to an outboaed Benchmark DAC
shel50

Showing 1 response by br3098

In my experience, isolating most components other than front end devices (turntables, CD transports and spinning disks) is unnecessary. As long as your input and output cables are snug and do not wiggle about (USB cables are notorious for this), you will be OK. It doesn't matter whether your gear is tube or SS, unless it's badly designed or cheaply made.

I have designed and installed audio data collection systems (including DACs and ADCs) that were installed into 4WD vans for travelling at speeds up to 70MPH over the desert (no roads). The suspension system for the equipment racks only damped vibration over 6gs. We tested up to 6gs with and without suspension - there was no recordable or audible difference as long as the cables were tight. Some of the gear used tubes (large power transmitter tubes).