Variable vs. Fixed Output? CD player and DAC

doctorbongo

Super Member

• Dec 11, 2006

• #1

i'm about to hook up the ADCOM GCD-600 and it has two pair of output jacks: variable and fixed. What is the distinction, and which do I want to use:
a)straight to the amp
b)thru the DAC
thanks,
dennis

 

ZebraBlvd

Lunatic Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #2

I just did an AK search on the key words fixed vs variable and got some good info to your question.

 

marantz_marc

Active Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #3

variable outputs allow you to adjust the level or volume of the signal leaving the cd player. I'm no expert but I think this is to match the impedance of the preamp? fixed output is just that, the output signal leaving the player is set to one level and cannot be changed.

to hook your cdp to a dac you need to use a digital connection, either a digital coaxial or digital optical out put. Like I said I'm no expert but I hope this helps.

 

zenith2134

Addicted Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #4

I'm pretty sure the varable output controls the audio level that goes to the preamp, not the impedance, which is always fixed. Its just another method of volume control, possibly to allow more headroom depending on your preamp. I've been using the variable output on my tuner for quite some time, it lets me match the volume of all other sources, so that I can leave the volume level on my integrated amp at a constant level. This is mostly a matter of convenience, I believe.

 

jimfet

Lunatic Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #5

zenith2134 said:

I'm pretty sure the varable output controls the audio level that goes to the preamp, not the impedance, which is always fixed. Its just another method of volume control, possibly to allow more headroom depending on your preamp. I've been using the variable output on my tuner for quite some time, it lets me match the volume of all other sources, so that I can leave the volume level on my integrated amp at a constant level. This is mostly a matter of convenience, I believe.

Click to expand...

You are very correct here. You want everything to play at a constant level. This way if you are using alot of power, you worry less about damaging your spkr.s, going from one sourse to the other. You know your volume level switching from one thing to another.

 

marantz_marc

Active Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #6

you learn something new everyday. that makes perfect sense. like I said i'm no expert.

 

ZebraBlvd

Lunatic Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #7

marantz_marc said:

you learn something new everyday. that makes perfect sense. like I said i'm no expert.

Click to expand...

That will cost you one speaker Marc.

Lets see which one shall I pick.:scratch2:

 

marantz_marc

Active Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #8

Monty, my dog did like you but I've trained her to attack anyone who comes near the vmps speakers. even the girlfriend isn't safe. if she gives them the "god I can't believe these monsters are in our living room" look my dog growls. jk

 

E

energyandair

Active Member

• Dec 12, 2006

• #9

The variable out is convenient, specially if it has remote control but with my CD players I've always thought that they sounded better on the fixed output.

David