Preamp w/ Single Line Input. But I have DAC and CDP

Thank you all for your responses.

My CDP is a Shanling CD-T1000 SE which has a coaxial output. The Cambridge Audio DAC has S/P DIF Coaxial input and outputs. So far the only source I've fed into the DAC is Internet radio using a Macbook and Amarra. The sound is quite acceptable, IMO.

If I connect the CDP to the DAC using the coaxial output on the CDP, and then connect the DAC to the preamp line stage using conventional ICs will both the CDP and computer play through the line stage? If this would work all I'd need is a proper coax cable. I just got the DAC and it came with no cables otherwise I would have tried this already

I've had the LUMI preamp for many years and it was significantly upgraded by Scott Frankland a few years ago. Scott took it as far as he could. It's a lovely piece and I have no desire to replace it! :)

Thanks again.
Paul

Well, since I don't have a coaxial audio cable (yet) after researching further, I tried a conventional IC from the CDP coaxial output to the DAC coaxial input, and bingo, my problem is solved. SUCCESS!

I left the DAC connected to the preamp line inputs using analog ICs and can change the source from CDP to laptop by simply pressing a button on the DAC.

I had no idea it was this simple. This old dog is learning a few new tricks. Whoo-Hooo! All I need now is a proper coaxial audio cable. I can also start experimenting with the various filters on the DAC and different IC's from the DAC to the preamp.

Happy New Year.

Thank you, Mesch.
Today I did encounter a problem. When I plugged a coaxial IC into the CDP and then into either of the two digital inputs on the DAC, the DAC did not "see" nor play the CD. The USB connection is still fine and I can listen to Internet music through my laptop.

What seems odd to me is that everything was working OK before using a regular IC from the CDP except the signal would drop periodically. I just purchased a coaxial and figured that would solve the problem, but now, no matter what cable I use from the CDP to the DAC there is no signal.

Thanks again, Mesch.
I've located the problem. I unplugged everything from the CDP, the computer, and the Cambridge Audio DacMagic. Then I reconnected the coax cable from the CDP to the DAC. I noticed that the digital inputs on the DacMagic do not grip the RCA jacks on the coaxial cable very well. It "wiggles" and the signal cuts in and out.

If I tape the cable in place, the CDP will play through the DAC fine. After I got the CDP going, I reconnected the USB cable from the computer and that worked as well, and I could then switch sources on the DacMagic.

However, as I considered this configuration, I realized that the DAC in the Shanling CDP was likely as good, if not better, that the Cambridge Audio so my "solution" is to swap ICs to the line inputs on my preamp, depending on whether I'm listening to the computer or the CDP. It's inconvenient but hardly impossible to live with. Furthermore, this enables me to use the tube outputs on the CDP which sound better to me than either the SS and the coaxial.

I'm wondering if anyone makes a simple outboard switching box which would connect to the line stage on my preamp, so I could plug both the DacMagic and the CDP into the box, and then change sources at the box?

Al:Thank you, sir.
The DB Systems DBP-2JAU/5 is exactly the type of device I was wondering about.
Since I'm so new to digital audio, I'm finding that fine-tuning my setup and clarifying related details somewhat confusing.

I appreciate your help! These forums can be invaluable.

Ps

Thank you all for the great info and suggestions.

I just determined that the digital output board in the DAC is indeed malfunctioning intermittently. No point in having it repaired. It'd be less expensive to get a basic switching box and use the DAC strictly for iTunes.

Mesch, the Schitt passive pre would be very economical. An excellent suggestion, sir.

Jedi: I just checked out that Niles. Also an excellent option, within my modest budget.

Man, I've learned a lot here about digital (iTunes/computer audio) over the past few days.

Just ordered a SYS from Schiit. It's a passive device which will enable me to switch back and forth between CDP and iTunes. I'll be good to go, in a few days. :)

I have added the Schiit SYS to my audio system today and am happy to report it works flawlessly. Elegant in its simplicity and functionality. Modest in cost. Very fast shipping.

Now switching from USB audio to my CDP is easy and immediate. No more swapping IC cables. :)