2. digital
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Tact 2.2 XP: which configuration to get?

I'm considering getting a Tact 2.2 XP and need opinions from users. As you know the 2.2 XP has the option to get either digital or analog input, and same for amp out and for sub output.

I only need a digital source, so I'm thinking it makes no sense getting the 2.2 XP with ADC going in. Tact confirmed this, but would appreciate comments from users who have tried either configuration. I would then run a CD transport straight into the Tact.

I'm also wondering if I'm better off getting the built-in DAC for the amp or an external DAC with volume control. Should I do the latter, the DAC would act as a pre and the Tact as a processor only. Would be able to spend about $5k in an external DAC.

Finally, I've seen good comments about the 2.2 XP, but not much as far as sound signature. Can anyone comment?

FYI amp is McIntosh MC275 (tubes), speakers are B&W 804s , and sub is Rel Storm III sub (I sure need the analog out for this).

Thank you!
lewinskih01

Showing 2 responses by don_s

don_s
271 posts
 
My experience is with a 2.2X not the XP so there might be some differences. If I understand your post correctly you are considering using an internal TacT DAC card for your subs and an external DAC with volume control for your main speakers. This configuration will work but not exactly as you plan. The external DAC would not act as a preamp as far as volume control because it would not control the subs at the same time.

If you use one internal DAC and one external DAC you must balance the level between the subs and mains using either the volume control on the external DAC or any volume control the sub might offer. Then leave those settings alone and use the TacT volume control to control both mains and subs simultaneously.

You will not have to balance the two volume levels exactly. Just get them within normal operating ranges with some headroom to spare. The TacT measurement and correction process will set the final relative volume levels.

Here is a possible difference between 2.2X and 2.2XP: On the 2.2X DO NOT USE the menu "digital out" for the external DAC. You might damage something. The "digital out" setting is ONLY if you use TacT digital amps and need the TacT processor to control them. Don't worry about not selecting "digital out", you will still get a digital output and volume control but it will not be at a level that might damage your external DAC or speakers.
don_s
271 posts
 
Horacio,

If you would like some help from long-time TacT users do a search for Yahoo Users Groups for TacT Audio and TheRealTactHackers. I would post the links here but every time I have tried it my post never passes the powers that be. I tried it again yesterday and it is the third or fourth time my post did not survive.

You CAN use an outboard DAC after TacT and use the 2.2X to adjust volume. I have done it so I am not just guessing. The fact that it is a corrected signal does not matter to the external DAC. That is not an issue. Also TacT will measure and adjust for any change in time delay.

See my cautions in a previous post on this thread. Visit the experts and good luck.
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