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Help with Matching Impedance - DAC to Integrated

I just pickup up a Denafrips Pontus II 12th (arriving Wednesday).  I was doing some deeper digging on the DAC and saw a reviewer mention that the Pontus does not have an output buffer, which could cause some issues with matching the input impedance of some preamps/integrated.  My Arcam FMJ A49 has a 10k ohm input impedance on both XLR and RCA inputs.  The Pontus outputs are 1250 ohm on XLR and 625 on the RCA.  I understand that a 10:1 ratio is preferred.  XLR would be ~8:1; RCA ~16:1.

I had hoped to use XLR.  I'd appreciate any input on whether XLR is just a bad idea here, especially any direct experience with the Pontus around this issue.  I'd also welcome recommendations on RCAs in the $100-$300 range?

Thank so much.  Long time lurker.  This is my first post.

ajrepete
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,822 posts
 

You should try both XLR and RCA. It’s very possible that with XLRs you will hear duller sound due to impedance characteristics of both components. 
Here’s a pair of Kimber Hero XLRs sold by Kimber Kable with return policy. 
https://ebay.us/m/et4d6y

And RCAs

https://ebay.us/m/duaykb

ajrepete OP
2 posts
 

Thanks for the links!  So I don't need to be concerned about potentially damaging the DAC or integrated?  It's primarily a question of sound quality.  Appreciate your help.

jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,920 posts
 

yes denafrips dacs have output voltages on the weaker side

try both connections and see, you won’t hurt anything

if you want more gain and drive ability at the dac output you can try something like a decware zbit

erik_squires
17,537 posts
 

10k is unusually low for a solid state preamp stage these days.  What a surprise, and good thing you noticed. 

Good news is that in this case, the worst that can happen is reduced output level... but that's what the volume control is for! :) 

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