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Mini-DAC FAQs
| Q: | My Mini-DAC-FireWire is not recognized by my laptop running Windows XP. |
| A: | The Mini-DAC-FireWire requires a powered 6-pin FireWire port that provides between 8 and 30 volts. Many laptops running Windows only have 4-pin FireWire ports. These are not compatible with Mini-DAC-FireWire. |
| Q: | I have a ProTools HD system and am wondering how the DA converters of my Digidesign hardware will sound by comparison to the Mini-DAC. |
| A: | I have a ProTools HD system and am wondering how the DA converters of my Digidesign hardware will sound by comparison to the Mini-DAC. I am looking to possibly use this as the DA converter to feed my powered monitors and as a digital input source switcher.
Our listening tests have indicated that the DA side of the Digidesign 192 interface can be improved and the Mini-DAC offers a higher quality alternative. The volume control and digital input switching offer convenient monitoring functionality when connecting directly to powered speakers. |
| Q: | Does the Mini-DAC accept 24-bit, 192 kHz audio via the S/PDIF input? |
| A: | Yes, the Mini-DAC accepts 24-bit, 192 kHz S/PDIF input. |
| Q: | How does the DA converter of the Mini-DAC compare with the PSX-100? |
| A: | Sonically, the Mini-DAC is comparable to a PSX-100 Special Edition. This version of the PSX-100 had upgraded analog components. The Mini-DAC can connect via USB and can run at a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, while the PSX-100 runs at a maximum sample rate of 96 kHz and does not offer USB connectivity. |
| Q: | Does Mini-DAC accept AC or DC for its low voltage (6 - 14V, as listed in your specifications) supplies? |
| A: | The Mini-DAC requires a DC voltage between 6-14 volts |
| Q: | How does the Mini-DAC's re-clocking function work? |
| A: | All of our DACs, including the Mini-DAC, employ what is known as "dual clocking." In this type of circuit, one "loose" clock locks to the incoming digital signal, bits are stored into a buffer, and then a very low jitter clock is used to clock data out of this buffer to the DA converters. This means that the Mini-DAC is impervious to clock jitter coming from the digital input, and jitter at the DA converter is quite low. |
| Q: | How do I connect the Mini-Me and the Mini-DAC to a computer via USB? |
| A: | The Mini-DAC is designed to be able to send and receive audio via the USB port. Connect one of the digital outputs of the Mini-Me to the corresponding digital input on the Mini-DAC. Set the digital source of the Mini-DAC to USB and launch the desired application. |
| Q: | Can I use Mini-DAC with a FireWire PCMCIA card or ExpressCard? |
| A: | Apogee does not support using PCMCIA card or ExpressCard FireWire adapters. The unit must be connected directly to a powered 6-pin FireWire port on your computer. |
| Q: | What sample rates are supported with the format conversion configurations? |
| A: | When using optical and USB, 44.1 and 48 kHz sample rates are available. When using the FireWire option, sample rates up to 96 kHz are available. |
