CD better Analog or Digital for Stereo Playback (2)

[misterdoggy]

With a Pair of 802D's and Krell KAV 2250 and a C1. Playing normal CD or HDCD (2 channel source) for playback in Stereo Mode (only the Fronts) which cable is preferable

digital or Analog

Then playback in which mode.

I was using 804S' for fronts and used DPL II, but now that 802D's will be the fronts, I should really become more of a "purist" and benefit from 2 channel playback.

What's your take ?

[Peter Nielsen]

That depends on the quality of the DAC in your CD player. If the DAC in the CD is better than the C1 DACs, then it might be beneficial to run analog (with the C1 in pass-through mode, of course). Otherwise, digital is certainly better...

Peter

[misterdoggy]

I think my CD is middle of the road compared to the C1. Its the Rotel 1072RCD new model. What do you think ?

Then the best source using digital would just be plaiin old "Stereo" then considering the fronts are 802D's

[nicholtl]

Unless Stereo96 is available through a digital source. And yes, the C1's DAC's are probably better than your Rotel's. However, there's no harm in trying both and seeing which you like best.

I have a Classe CD player, whose DAC's are supposed to be superior to my C2's. I ran them with XLR's in analog bypass mode, but felt that the low-end to my music was lacking, thin, and a bit anemic. So I switched to Stereo96, and it completely breathed new life into my music.

[misterdoggy]

Wel I wil definitely try Stereo 96 and Stereo and see what it brings. First the 802D's have to arrive to make the test. Thanks for the advice !!!

[Blazar]

buy yourself an outboard DAC such as those made for professional use like the Apogee 2 channel or Benchmark 2 channel DAC.

A variety of decent priced options are available that would likely stomp the C2 into the ground. Assuming the analog bypass section of the C2 utilizing balanced inputs/outputs is good, you would get the full benefits of great 2 channel d/a conversion with this tactic.

I can practically guarantee you that an Apogee DAC is superior to just about anything you can find in almost ANY pre-pro on the market much less a C2.

[Chris D]