Ian,
Sorry, I don't have a direct answer for you on the DACs. I haven't
been in a position yet to worry about that specific thing. I have seen
one that did do the full multi-channel break-out, but I'm not
remembering any details.
As to buying new speakers, amps, etc., that is a bit of a waste.
Frankly, I have yet to hear anything that comes close to a higher-end
speaker/amplifier system. I'm partial to Bose for my speaker system,
but will occasionally use my mid-field Mackie self-powered monitors
when I want to get anal.
> I know there have been discussions about cables but when I bought my setup I
> did so at the shop listening to various combinations and opted for decent
> cables for the speakers and the interconnects, I was pretty sure I heard a
> difference, however I don't doubt the wisdom on the list and wonder if the
> "standard" cables they use had maybe been abused a bit to make them sound
> worse rather than the other cables better.
For digital interconnections, there is no difference between cables as
long as the connection works and isn't flaky. Years ago, I proved that
with lab testing. Digital is very binary--it either works or it
doesn't. These days, I've moved "up" in the world and deal with
extremely high-end communications transport of terabits of data over
thousands of miles and trust me when I say that the brand "Monster" is
nowhere to be seen.
For inter-device analog connections, the quality of the cable DOES
make a difference. How much of a difference? There is the 99% rule.
Once you get pass chrome-plated connectors and something thicker than
22-gauge, you've reached the point of diminishing returns. For
amplifier to speaker connections, the importance of the number of
winds-per-meter is as critical as the gauge itself. Monster Cable is
actually pretty good in this regard. Again, once you get past a
certain point, it doesn't matter anymore. I believe self-powered
speakers are the way to go now and in pro-audio, this is now the
standard.
AG
--
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