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Based on comments here and elsewhere on the web, I picked up an UC Pro to play with, not knowing where in my system it would ultimately reside (if anywhere). It was fairly clear to me that successful use in the analog domain depended on getting enough signal to the UC's A/D converter. A Cary 303/100 is my only source so I figured I would try the UC between it and preamp (Transcendent GG), realizing that the spec'ed 2.5vrms might not give optimal results.BTW, the Cary has an internal jumper that will double the output voltage, if any owners where not aware of this. The newer 303/200 lists two output voltages but nothing is mentioned in my 303/100 manual. I tried this first with significant digital overload in the UC, so went back to standard levels. Things are now fine for the most part, but a occassional disc will still nudge "0db" on the DIGIMAX input meter. The audible results are not good.
(Sorry for the long post)
My question is: Does the UC have an input gain control? I sure as heck can't find one, having read the manual thoroughly. The RTA has a line gain level but this is only for the RTA.
Is this an explanation?-- With respect to the unit's electronically servo-balanced inputs and outputs, the manual states (section 6.2 - Audio connections) that "the automatic servo-function recognizes the presence of unbalanced connectors (I am using RCA-XLR cables with the XLRs wired as in the manual) and adjusts the nominal level internally to avoid level differences between input and output signals (correction 6 dB)".
So, given all the words that have been written on getting 6-8 volts to the UC, I am very confused. Ideas?
Ron
Follow Ups:
The master faders on the graphic eq control the input level. If you put the UC your tape loop and adjust the master faders to -4 or -5 you should avoid digital overload and maintain the UC's resolution.
Magnetar
That shows you how much I know. I thought the master fader only affected the output level. So, if my CDP really does output 2.5vrms, then the UC is boosting the input gain with the master level in the center position (I had overload with flat EQ/master at center)?Thanks for the pointer.
I have found the UC works best in the tape loop of my preamp. Here you aren't driving the eq with different voltages and can tune the unit to the likely voltages (pretty darn consistent)in the loop. when the master faders are set wrong you either get NASTY digital overload or reduced low level detail and resolution. I listen at all different volume settings and find this much easier and enjoyable than playing with the faders. Sounds good there too, The signal goes through the tube linestage and output transformer then out to the amps rather than the UC driving the amps.
Magnetar
I don't have a tape loop, but with the UC between my cdp (only source) and preamp, I have pretty much the same setup. And, of course, you were right about dropping the master fader a little. I was just suprised to get overload with flat EQ, the master at center, and an input voltage of at most 3.0vrms. Anyway, it sounds fine now.BTW, those Fane tweeters you sold me sound nice (yeah, it's me).
Ron
Try decreasing the master volume for both channels a few db. It worked for me (I had similar issues). Also, if you bring down any extreme EQ levels (the +16 type ;-) it seems to help prevent overload. Give it a shot. BTW, how do you like your results?-Scott
See my comments to Magnetar regarding the master volume. Will do.The results are promising. Before trying anything I figured I would end up going the digital i/o route because of not enough signal. Obviously wrong there, but still toying with the idea.
My speakers are DIY horns and, while generally a successful design, do not have a flat response. On discs that do not overload :), the sound is very different. Right now I'm still deciding if it's an overall "good" different, or just different. In general flatter is better, but I want to make sure my infatuation with this "different" sound isn't masking any negatives. Clear as mud?
Ron
try to make the large adjustments with PEQ not the GEQ. that seems to give you a bit more headroom in the boost region before you start to clip/overload..otherwise you either have to cut master level a bit or deside on less low end boost.BTW i go digital in.. it can the still clip if yoiu use too much boost .
probably because CD are mastered to damn hot that the digmax is allways in the last 1%
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