Driving 2 DACs with 1 source


Hi All, 

I'm looking for some advice if you have had some similar experiences.

Using 1 AEB digital source how do you connect 2 DACs simultaneously ?  

Do you think this would work without creating its own issues? passive splitter or maybe this Y-splitter.   They seem pretty inexpensive and are in a photography store.  Has anyone tried these?

Source is:  Berkeley Alpha USB

DACs are: Berkeley Alpha DAC and Tidal Camira

Don't recall the model or brand of cables but they are high quality.

What do you think?

- Jed

mysearcher257

 These cable solutions seem to be for analog.

Can a cable work with digital without causing timing and clocking issues ?  Will the 2 devices lock onto the signal without interfering with each other?

You are correct, Op.  Sorry I miss that.  The spec. also says 69 ohm nominal impedance, not 110 ohm for the digital applifcation.  And you have self-corrected for using splitter for connecting source to two DACs.  The noted risk could likely happen.

I should spend time and take a look at your equipments first.  Now I wonder why don’t you simply connect your alpha DAC to DDC via BNC port using a 75-ohm BNC cable, and connect your Camira DAC to alpha DDC via AES port using a 110 ohm XLR digital cable.  Two different outputs with a switch control in the back of your DDC and you are done.

Of course, if you are thinking about investing a better DDC than the expensive Berkeley alpha DDC will be another story.

Also I am puzzled about the reason you did not do so is because the SQ from BNC port is inferior to AES so you are thinking about AES splitter?  But then if you switch to different DDC that does offer two AES ports, you will run into the same issue.  

 

@lanx0003 I have not noticed any sound quality difference between the Alpha USB's coax and AEB, this is simply a matter of conveniently switching between to 2 dacs. To connect 2 devices, one coax and one AEB, to the Alpha USB is a good solution if the DDC is easily accessible and you are willing to reach and toggle that tiny switch on the BACK of the unit.  I have used this configuration in the past. But it is a pita since i need a ladder or chair to stand on to reach it. (I know, why not just move it closer but then the cables won't reach and a new can of worms gets opened.)

@erik_squires Trying to follow the KISS principle.

 

 

The recommend Denafrips DDC will not solve the problem since it has no remote.

Are there any DDC with a remote?

Berkeley Alpha DAC should have a remote for input selection?  None of the DDCs I know have a remote control.