D100 Frequently Asked Questions
Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 6:26 amSee also: What is an Audio DAC?
Why is the D100 better?
D100 Mk2 or D100 Mk1?
Can I use any XLR Female to RCA Male interconnects?
Can I use an XLR to RCA adapter?
What about USB input?
Why is the D100 better?
The D100 is built from components of the highest quality and manufactured to the strictest tolerances. Since the output stage is 100% passive and uses transformers, there are no operational amplifiers or transistors to introduce noise, distortion, or to alter the audio. The transformers also provide isolation between the D100 and your receiver, processor, or pre-amp.
The end result is music with less distortion, greater musical accuracy, and incredible clarity. Individual notes will be more easily distinguished, without smearing together. Transients will be quick and precise. The D100 provides tight, clean bass and detailed highs without fatigue.
D100 Mk2 or D100 Mk1?
The sonic character of the D100 Mk2 and original D100 are the same, but the Mk2 output is 6dB higher and equal to typical CD player output volume. In some cases, the lower volume of the original D100 can be beneficial. If you are unsure, choose the D100 Mk2 for maximum compatibility.
Can I use any XLR Female to RCA Male interconnects?
Yes, you can. The XLR female to RCA male interconnects we sell are hand-constructed from very high quality cable and Neutrik connectors, but the D100 is compatible with any standard XLR female to RCA male interconnect that ties the XLR cold/negative pin to ground.
Can I use an XLR to RCA adapter?
If your receiver, processor, or pre-amp only accepts RCA inputs you can use an XLR to RCA adapter but we suggest using an XLR interconnect with an XLR female to RCA male adapter. The adapter will plug in to the RCA input on your receiver, processor, or pre-amp.
An XLR female to RCA male cable with XLR cold/negative tied to ground at the RCA shield is slightly better than one where an XLR female to RCA female adapter is plugged into the D100 because it prevents noise from riding into the signal.
What about USB input?
As the D100 does not have a built-in USB input, you can use either a USB to S/PDIF converter or a sound card that outputs S/PDIF via coaxial or optical. There are many USB to S/PDIF converters available at reasonable prices.
If using a sound card you should use the optical S/PDIF output. The coaxial S/PDIF outputs are usually very noisy and will degrade the sound quality.
Mac computers often include support for S/PDIF over optical using the built-in audio output jack. All you need is an optical cable that has a minijack connector on one end, or a minijack to optical adapter.
