[mkasprzak]

Alright, I have a bunch of questions about CD Audio quality, and the best way to listen.


If I play a CD in a DVD or CD player connected to my receiver via digital inputs, the digital stream is passed to the receiver where it's run through the receiver's DAC, correct?


If I play a CD or DVD in a player connected via analog inputs, then the audio is processed by the player's DAC, and the receiver's just acting as an amp, correct?


If that's the case, how can I tell if my receiver or the player has a "better" DAC?


Also, how can I compare a DVD player and a CD player for CD-A playing? I've read in reviews that certain DVD players sound better than others for CD-A output, but how do they stack up against dedicated CD players?


(I know I didn't specify any models, I'm just trying to get a general Idea)

 

[Joe_M]

You're correct about the DAC's. What I normally do (to A/B test) is run a digital cable to my DVD input and an analog cable to my CD input. Then I can switch back and forth using the remote. As long as you're familiar with the music you should notice a difference if there is one. High-end CD players will generally be better than a DVD player but if you're using digital outputs than it's the DAC's in the receiver that matter most. There's not a simple way to tell which is better, you've got to trust your ears.

 

[mkasprzak]

Thanks for the info. it helps a lot.


Glad to see I'm right about something, finally

 

[John Kotches]

Don't forget to match levels between inputs, otherwise the way our brain works we usually tend to favor the louder of the two as being better.


Regards,