Being 'beginner friendly' doesn't start and end with this video. It relies on viewers leaving helpful comments that advance the conversation in a thoughtful way. :)
I am just getting into a let’s make this sound good lifestyle. I worked in music and live was how I heard all of my friends. Most of my music is folk Americana and pop edm. My question is if I want to Bluetooth from my phone to a receiver from Spotify is their a good dac in a budget receiver I should buy? I just purchased jbl studio 230 towers and before they get here I want to know if I should just go with a budget Yamaha rs202 or maybe spend a little more. Dankeschön is it better to go from Schitt Modi to receiver. I’m basically looking at how I can best spend the 100 bones.
How important is it to choose a hi-end cd player, If my primary source is CD. Won't the ability of the CDP reading the information off of the CD, play a major role in the quality of the music before the DAC converts it ? I'm thinking, there's only so much a DAC can do if the source digital signal is compromised.
Thank you very much. I now understand this, something that I thought was witchcraft, sold by snake oil peddlers. The CD player explanation was what turned the lightbulb on.
I appreciate your “let’s keep it simple “ philosophy and the resulting explanations. I’m not a technophile, but I can follow your narratives quite easily.
As a music lover now in my late 50's, who has long avoided crossing the mental chasm that exists within myself regarding external DAC's, I sincerely wanted to thank you for this particular video. Planned well in advance or not, this was one of the most straightforward pieces covering the basics of what is really needed to proceed successfully in this realm that I have found. By including the so-called distractions as you've done here and pointing out why you actually consider them to be distractions is beneficial in a variety of ways. I wanted you to know that I really appreciated this aspect of your approach as well. Fantastic video, once again - thanks very much!
Wow, what a presenter. Didn't know anything at all about DACs but now, well I want one. Best techo presenter on youtube I've ever seen. Calm, to the point and very, very descriptive and informative. Love that you are always showing why and how you would connect these gadgets. Makes all the difference to us novices. Tip of the hat to you kind Sir.
Great video, breaking down this topic! The most valuable tip for me is to chose a DAC based on how it sounds, playing what I normally listen to, rather than chasing specs. Obvious when you think about it, but so easy to get lost in this wonderful world of Hifi :)
@@javiern4278 In order to make use of an amp, you must use a pre-amp. Amps have no volume control, balance control, or anything else (some might have a mute button). A pre-amp has all of the controls (perhaps tone controls, too, on lower-end models). If you already have an amp, and you are using it, then some other piece of gear in your system is functioning as a pre-amp. For example, some CD players have volume controls. That is a form of a pre-amp. Pre-amps also have multiple inputs, allowing you to have one box with a volume control, yet choose which player you want to hear, by way of choosing the associated input on the pre-amp. Any device that has a volume control can feed your amp, directly, such as a CD player that has a volume control. But if you have more than just a CD player (maybe you have a stand-alone tuner or a turntable or tape deck, etc), then to avoid having to switch cables, you plug everything into the pre-amp, and then choose the input on the pre-amp that will determine which device's sound will be passed on to the amp. Note that turntables must first be amplified via a phono-amp, which then feeds the pre-amp, which then feeds the amp, which finally feeds the speakers. Many pre-amps come bundled with a phono-amp. In such a case, you would be able to plug your turntable into your pre-amp (you are really plugging it into the phono section of your pre-amp). Receivers are pre-amps that have other components bundled in. For example, receivers typically include a tuner, a stereo amplifier, tone controls, and maybe a phono amp. Every item that comes bundled with a receiver can be purchased individually. In a nut-shell, amps, by themselves, do nothing other than amplify the analog signal that it receives from the pre-amp. The louder the pre-amp's signal, the louder the amps will amplify that analog signal.
Old duds that are just coming back to an interest in good music like me really appreciate the step by step, explanation of stuff that everyone else assumes you know. Technology changes faster than we can assimilate.
I love John's videos for their perfect amalgam of explanation, market(isation) context, wryness, foregrounded distractions, and a certain kind of generosity that is lacking in much of modern life.
I really loved hearing about gear you used to use. To some of us beginners, it can seem like audiophiles just start out with the best of the best, and it’s refreshing to hear stuff about your journey to where you are now!
That Marantz CD player was the go to CD player back in the day. Great sound for a sensible price. I'm only just starting to really get back into my audio setups now because life got in the way, so its nice to see something I can relate to in videos like this one. I need a half decent DAC to feed my Swan speakers so I can hear them at their full potential, hence watching videos like this where someone just speaks openly, honestly, and without all the waffle so many others are prone too.
I love how you're actually a guy who genuinely knows what he's talking about through years of experience instead of some big name TH-camr who acts like they know what they're talking about when in reality, they just got sponsored.
This was an excellent introduction to DACs. I learned so much more in your 18 minute video than I did hunting for articles on the topic. Thank you for the clear and easy to understand presentation.
John, this video is the epitome of why I subscribe to your channel. It’s not just that I learn new facts, rather, you help me build a learning trellis that allows me to interweave the facts and concepts into a gestalt. Thank you for your efforts!!
Such a good watch! I love how you repeat the fundamental truth: external DACs just sound better. My first external DAC was a Dragonfly black, v1.2. It was US$100. I swear to anyone who is on the fence about spending the money, I can hardly think of another example of $100 buying me so much happiness. The difference to my home stereo was immediate and striking. To make sure I wasn't crazy, I did some blind sound tests on my wife--a self-described non-audiophile. She also fell in love, and could instantly hear the difference 100% of the time.
I really want to get one. How can i connect one to a phone (Note 10+) that doesn't have a headphone jack? And also, is there a way for it to improve sound over Bluetooth? (sorry if this is a dumb question).
@@HFIntegrale You always connect it via USB to your smartphone :) Because the DAC needs the audio in digital form so that it can work properly. The Note 10+ supports OTG which means with an USB C to A Adapter you can use this thing as your sound output device.
Please do more videos like this as it was full of useful information and we can use these videos as a reference in the future ... Maybe start a series on How to build a Hi-Fi system for beginners as some of us are not experts. To date, I have spent nearly £8,000 on a system which sounds excellent I didn't know anything about Hi-fi systems until I started watching your Videos less than a year ago !!
THANK YOU for your explanation. Thank goodness I saved my fathers CD music collection (shit load of thousand of serious eclatic of music) and starting to understanding his favorite past time listening to his 2-channel setup audio setup. The Mcintosh Mc2205 and C29 Preamp. Thanks Pops, RIP you a great man, I love you!
This is one of the most informative, beginner friendly videos I’ve ever watched. Thanks for this content! I literally started researching DACs a day ago and this already has me feeling more comfortable with my comprehension and excited to put a functional system together
I love John's videos. (The take-a-way) "Hey, you might want to try an external DAC because by doing so your music might sound better." Well alright then... Keep up the great work👍
New to this game after the world of work taken over my life! Great information - now will connect my CD player and Chromebook via an external DAC. Thanks for clear and honest appraisal.
It’s great you highlight the importance of redbook (aka CD quality) playback - I find that this is not stressed enough given most of the digital content is available in this format. And frankly, most of the high res content doesn’t sound any better than their CD versions. I think in fact DAC reviews should always have a section analyzing how well a particular DAC plays redbook.
Darko, you rock brother! The delivery of the information that you provide, versus how countless other TH-cam bloggers provide is what keeps me watching, connected and subscribed. I am sharing this video with a couple other of fellow novice audio enthusiasts. Keep up the great work!
Exactly the type of information I'm looking for as I explore my digital setup and getting the best possible sound for my music collection and getting it to my speakers. Thank You
Super great! I now understand DACs better. Just starting to get into audiophiles stuff lately and have been asking myself what DAC is. Thank you so much, this is a huge help
Mr Darko - really enjoyed the general break down of ideas - connections of dacs/streamers so simple but really interesting 👍🏻 need more simple stuff - keep it going john ....
Thanks John. You do make things simple and clear. That cleared up a couple of questions to help me catch up with tech after a 26 year break from good audio. A tiny step... let’s see where it goes.
This is information we all needed....even if many here already know it, the simple fact that you remind us of what so often ends up as distractions? SOOoooo on point. My next dac upgrade is taking me some time (due more to indecision than finances), and you've just help me remember what's most important. The sound, baby! The sound.
I'm so glad that I chose to watch this video. As a budding audiophile I appreciated the simplistic explanation of where dacs are found, as well as whether or not an external dac is worth it.
This is well done for the beginner. Having been "into" audio since I was a kid, and buying my first true stereo system in college (38 yrs ago) I bought my first stand-alone DAC when I got into headphones 10 years back. Side note: I went thru the transition from vinyl to CD. What you have access to today from a DAC standpoint is amazing. Don't underestimate the impact of a DAC, it plays a very key role.
I really like the way you demystify the whole process of analogue digital audio , thus restricting the hyperbole preached by many so called audiophile aficionados to the trash can where it belongs . My take is if it sounds better it probably costs more and then there is the aesthetic pleasure of just gazing at the device, not wanting to replace something every year may be a good indication the choice was the right one is also a consideration .
Great vid. It reminded me of the thing that attracts me to audio which is the same as my chosen profession in software development and that is that you never truely master it 100%. There is always something to learn, a distraction to be ignored or a myth to be busted.
I myself was clueless about these DAC/Amp stuff like why some IEMS and Speakers can costs thousands of dollars until I was curious enough to step into those audio shops, where they allow you to experience them for yourself. I was quite skeptical myself until I experienced them 3 years ago and gotten friendly opinions or advises from the audio shop staffs. Like Darko mentioned, every DAC sounds different from one another. I even find it funny that different quality of audio cables too affect the way the sounds project. In the end, it all depends on mix and match of the headphones/speakers + DAC + AMP or even the cables quality to get the listening experience you're after for. Always never ever buy them blindly without testing them for yourself. For me I would check out some reviews of those gears and then visit those audio shops to test them out myself. Currently I'm using the Chord Mojo + Campfire Andromeda Gold IEMs with Ares II cables.
I'm a bit of an audio nerd myself. Your explanation was very good. A while back my son wanted to connect the audio from his L.G TV (with digital audio out only) to an analogue only amp and didn't think it was possible. No problem I said. To your point, another great use for a DAC.
Another great video John, always look forward to your videos popping up. I'd be pretty chuffed if you could do a beginners guide to streaming, something I'd like to get into but don't have any experience with. In particular what I find a headache is how to rip the hundreds of cd's I have, in the best possible format, store them and be able to play them through something like the LS50 wireless or a more traditional amp and standmounts. Anyway great work, and thanks for your efforts.
Well, simple is relative. And just because something is lengty, doesn't mean it's complex. He could've also explain all the technicalties of how a dac works, the electrical engineering implementation and placebo effects etc.
I liked your walk down memory lane and did not mind your personal history. It always amazes me how different people take the same 0's and 1's of digital and make those same on and off bits of data sound different. You would think a dac is a dac is a dac, but I guess not so. Someone I worked with called burr browns, burr brownies.
Just stumbled upon this video, I like it because it helped me decide on a new set up. Having left the active scene in late 80s when Akai was a thing, I have no doubt that external DACs were introduced to the consumers purely as an extra product generating revenue in an effort to stay competitive with pure digital, and yes, the built-in DAC one already has is more than enough unless you "need" it ; ) ... and yes, I am buying one.
Thanks, enjoyed the video, would like to see more “off the cuff” videos if it means more content. Since I got back in to audio, I’ve got the Chord Mojo, then based on your video I purchased a Chord Poly. For my HiFi I switched from the internal DAC on my PS Audio Sprout100 to the Modi 3. Now I have a Rotel RA-10 amp (but with KEF R300, instead of LS50) on your recommendation and a Denafrips Ares2 DAC on Steve G’s recommendation. I’ve shelved the R300 for Maggie LRS thanks to Steve too. Because of you, Steve and Zeos (Kef R300, Fiio FH7 & Stax SRS 2170) I’m a happy non-audiophile. Thank you very much
Doesn’t compare to my “Realistic” tuner amp , trombonics record player, Marantz 8 track tape deck and either a Westinghouse or Hotpoint simulated wood cabinet. Also love my unbalanced chinese solid core uninsulated speaker cable...
What a wonderful and highly informative video explaining the role of external dacs for both system use and portable as well! Really liked the different sizes and prices of the dacs covered so the people know that even if their budget is not huge, they can still improve the sound they hear. You did a good job explaining how the streaming services can have improved quality by using a dac. Just a real good 1!
Be great to see a video comparing the audio on streamers/external DACs like the Bluesound Node with AVRs that claim to have high quality audio DACs like the Yamaha RX-V685 and Denon AVRX3600
Love your presentation style, really chills me in the evening! Also trying to make a purchase decision in the next 24h, started research 24h ago XD: Really goo info!
As a music lover, of course, most if not all, the information presented is already apparent. However, to put in it such coherent way is refreshing. Keeping it simple is the key. Keep up the good work, John.
I would love a detailed explanation as to how a DAC can be the size of a thumbnail all the way up to the size of a rack-mounted server, and where the value/features are coming from between the two.
Briefly, the thumbnail size DAC, such as the Dragonfly, is meant for lower impedance (portable) headphones or IEMs which do not need great quantities of power to drive them (although the amazing Cobalt Dragonfly can competently drive many 300Ω headphones.) The larger, more complex DACs normally are used in higher end audio systems because they offer superior sound processing as well as more options in the form of the outputs. Instead of just the 1/8th stereo jack of a portable DAC the more sophisticated DACs may offer Balanced Outputs in the form of dual XLR jacks which then connect to a quality per-amp or integrated amp, or Left and Right RCA outputs to connect to an amp or integrated amp, or even coax or optical outputs to connect to a muti-channel processor for a home theater system. Then there's the issue of the quality of the power supply that the DAC is using. The small portable DACS relay on USB power which may introduce noise into the signal and is very low voltage so not much amplification is possible. Better DACs tend to have much better power transformers and converters providing a more clean, consistent signal resulting in superior sound quality. And then many DACs are designed to be upgraded or user-modified, where it's possible to substitute in different DAC processor chips according to your personal tastes and as newer improved chips are developed. There are more reasons for the enormous variety of size and quality of DACs but I've listed the most common ones. Oh yeah, there's also the fact that some people have more money than brains so savvy audio companies offer outrageously priced products meant to vacuum up the poor pitiful fool's cash. Yoink!
As you know, probably, chips nowadays can do a lot in a very small package. And since a DAC is a chip, itself doesn't need a whole lot of space. What does need space however are things like VRM's (Voltage Regulator Modules). A better regulated power in the system = better sound. Though you can get into audiophile territory here, for example: they make watches nowadays that are accurate to 1 second of drift in a thousand years. Do you need that? Probably not, but if you have the money to spare.... Also, you can technically improve sound by makeing sure the dac is always at exactly the same temperature. This will, again technically, improve sound. But things like that cost space, also you want to keep power channels and analogue sound channels away from each other as much as possible to avoid interference. So, to sum this up: a lot of things can improve sound, but it's like trying to see the picture quality of 2 screens that are basically the same, but 1 is 4k and the other is 1080p and you have to judge it from across the room. It can be done, but a lot of people can't.
Loved it - everything does not have to be big production ultimate hard sell. Sometimes the natural laid back approach is a breath of fresh air. I loved this video.
I bought the Chord Qutest recently, and while it certainly sounds great I didn't feel that it sounded any better in real listening and musical enjoyment terms than the Astell & Kern AK70 mk2 (less than half the cost) that I already had in my system. I realised I was already happy with my set up and was just being influenced by marketing hype and review hype. Enjoying your music is the most important thing and you really don't have to spend loads of money to get great sound. it's too easy to get swept up in the upgrade culture that surrounds hifi. There are plenty of awesome network streamers and dac s on the market now for reasonable money that will make your music sound mazing!.
Agree.. cheap flat DAC without volume control and colorization (without preamp) is good enough for me. Let's other tasks conducted by preamp-power- and good speakers! 😊
I have tried to explain the basics to people not familiar with all this stuff. I have failed at trying to keep is simple, and I tend to get into the weeds at times. I will now just refer them to this vid, thank you.
I remembered that one generation of iPod player was highly sought after due to its Wolfson chip. That was ages ago, I can't even remember what happened to my iPod!
Would any of the DACs discussed thus far in the video (I'm 15min in lol) make audio coming out of a desktop PC also sound better the same way you say it will make audio sound better coming from the Macbook laptop? I can't figure out if the onboard audio on my motherboard (ASUS Crosshair Hero VIII) is any worse than an external DAC. If I buy a DAC, I want/need to make sure it's going to sound better than my current setup: USB output into 3.5mm headphone jack Y-split out to Left & Right powered M-AUDIO BX5a studio monitors.... so many things to choose from, sheesh!
It cleans up the sound, that's for sure. No need to get too expensive into DACs as the difference is quite negligible in an untrained ears. I've tried a 13$ dongle DAC vs a 130$ DAC and honestly couldn't tell the difference. If i can't tell the difference between 10x jumps in price i don't think it's worth going any higher, but that's just me. Keep in mind if you buy a dedicated DAC you'd also need to buy a dedicated Amp to go with it, since DACs don't usually have a headphone jack (unless it has integrated amps). And most of them won't work with headphones that has 2 separate jack for mic and audio
toppings standalone dacs are really solid, i gave my father my d20 and he's been stoked with it. we're in the process of digitizing his cd collection so he can access it from a tablet, he's 85 and constantly amazed.
First I'l say you did a marvelous job explaining what an external DAC does. I use the Schiit Modi 3 with my preamp (no DAC) to my stereo basic amp. My Cambridge Audio receiver has a high end built in DAC. Most receivers have no DAC or a mediocre DAC, but not Cambridge Audio.
hey John, loved it, I'll share the video with less "audio-savy" friends that are interested. But I think at the end you missed a quick the change to mention some notable exceptions like the LG VXX series which will have an internal dac better to some external ones (especially of the older/cheaper variety).
I have been a huge fan of Schiit products for several years. You're right that what's AFTER the digital conversion is extremely important. I just upgraded to the Schiit Lyr with multi-bit conversion ($699). I am also a lover of tubes and what they can do with digital audio. The audio output of the Lyr, using a single tube, is audibly more warm and rounded - perfect for the acoustic jazz, classical, folk, etc. music I gravitate to. I play everything flat, looking to hear what the producer, engineer, and artists want me to hear, and like a good turntable cartridge, a good DAC is worth the investment.
Just Thankyou. It's so hard to assemble the info you have just given in an unbiased way. No one seems to be able to do it without the "distractions", you mention. Even guys at hifi shows. Just what I needed. Loved the format of the video. I like your unbiased way of presenting information. Always tells me exactly what I need to know whilst allowing me to make my own choices.. 👍👍(double thumbs up) 😀
Excellent video with so much information. I started with a FiiO then KANN DAC. After upgrading my main system I went with the Qutest and like you said, the Qutest is so much cleaner. It's separates the instruments and is very quiet between tracks. I'm grateful you post these videos and have learned a lot from them.
Hegel man here, although entry-level stuff. My first was a HD2, which now acts as a dac for my home office headphones. Main listening system uses a HD11. Think I'll stick to them for quite some time.
Great, simple video!! I chose to use a DAC when i switched to appleTV ...I landed on the NAD C-510 because it supports HDMI ...I love it ...there's better and worse but this one does the job
Hi John, This is brilliant stuff. I grew up in the old days of tube amplifiers (even built my own), and analogue amplifiers. I've also built my own speaker enclosures back in the day. Things have come such a long way. Now that I am getting back into audio after a long hiatus, you're tutelage is very welcome. Thank you for taking the time to create a very consumable tutorial. :-)
Fantastic video and thanks for creating this! Being a middle aged analog head stuck in the past, I really learned a lot. Great pacing and production! Hope you make more "beginner's guides"!
Eat static, now that brings back memories. Abduction was my first eat static CD I got from my brother back in 90s. Saw them live. No laptops obviously, but analog gear.
I have been using the DAC in my preamp as my primary means to convert digital to analog but now I'm considering a standalone DAC. I have multiple sources (CD player, smart TV, xbox etc) but the external DACs seem to have only one input. How would I be able to use or switch different sources?
@@mikomiko9733 I have never used an external DAC before, so please bear with me. But, each connection type has its own technical limitations as to how hi-res it could go right? Take the Chord Cutest for example, USB-B can handle 32 bit/768 kHz PCM/DSD 512, coaxial 24 bit/384 kHz or optical 24 bit/192 kHz DSD 64. And if you have multiple sources, you would have to compromise I suppose since you don't have multiple USB-B inputs? So, my CD/SACD hybrid player's DAC upsamples to 32 bit/192 kHz, do I still use an external DAC? Or like Darko says here, don't look at the numbers or the chip as there are other factors like the quality of the analogue output stage of the external DAC?
![ไลฟ์สุ่ม iPhone 295 บาท... โกงมั้ย?[ โกงมั้ยครับ ep.97 ] | DOM](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gdstHEE4UUE/mqdefault.jpg)
Being 'beginner friendly' doesn't start and end with this video. It relies on viewers leaving helpful comments that advance the conversation in a thoughtful way. :)
I am just getting into a let’s make this sound good lifestyle. I worked in music and live was how I heard all of my friends. Most of my music is folk Americana and pop edm. My question is if I want to Bluetooth from my phone to a receiver from Spotify is their a good dac in a budget receiver I should buy? I just purchased jbl studio 230 towers and before they get here I want to know if I should just go with a budget Yamaha rs202 or maybe spend a little more. Dankeschön
is it better to go from Schitt Modi to receiver. I’m basically looking at how I can best spend the 100 bones.
Can't wait for the amplifier version of this video!
John good to see that you played New Order’s Movement album.
How important is it to choose a hi-end cd player, If my primary source is CD.
Won't the ability of the CDP reading the information off of the CD, play a major role in the quality of the music before the DAC converts it ?
I'm thinking, there's only so much a DAC can do if the source digital signal is compromised.
Thank you very much. I now understand this, something that I thought was witchcraft, sold by snake oil peddlers. The CD player explanation was what turned the lightbulb on.
I appreciate your “let’s keep it simple “ philosophy and the resulting explanations. I’m not a technophile, but I can follow your narratives quite easily.
As a music lover now in my late 50's, who has long avoided crossing the mental chasm that exists within myself regarding external DAC's, I sincerely wanted to thank you for this particular video. Planned well in advance or not, this was one of the most straightforward pieces covering the basics of what is really needed to proceed successfully in this realm that I have found. By including the so-called distractions as you've done here and pointing out why you actually consider them to be distractions is beneficial in a variety of ways. I wanted you to know that I really appreciated this aspect of your approach as well.
Fantastic video, once again - thanks very much!
14:55 "This is a big piece of Schiit"
Was waiting for that pun through the whole video
Saw it coming a mile away and still cracked up
Does anyone really want a big piece of Schiit?
Or maybe just a schittpyle.
i laughed so hard lmao
LMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, what a presenter. Didn't know anything at all about DACs but now, well I want one. Best techo presenter on youtube I've ever seen. Calm, to the point and very, very descriptive and informative. Love that you are always showing why and how you would connect these gadgets. Makes all the difference to us novices. Tip of the hat to you kind Sir.
Great video, breaking down this topic! The most valuable tip for me is to chose a DAC based on how it sounds, playing what I normally listen to, rather than chasing specs. Obvious when you think about it, but so easy to get lost in this wonderful world of Hifi :)
You NEVER ramble…You are THE BEST in articulating technical things for Everyone to understand!!❤ from Montreal
Can you do a beginners video series for other things like amps,preamps,etc
And, balanced versus non-balanced things.
Yeah, why I need a preamp if I have an amp, I can google this but I prefer John's explanation.
And, a beginner's guide to speakers and rooms.
Great idea! Count me in! A personal request: CD transports....
@@javiern4278 In order to make use of an amp, you must use a pre-amp.
Amps have no volume control, balance control, or anything else (some might have a mute button).
A pre-amp has all of the controls (perhaps tone controls, too, on lower-end models).
If you already have an amp, and you are using it, then some other piece of gear in your system is functioning as a pre-amp.
For example, some CD players have volume controls. That is a form of a pre-amp.
Pre-amps also have multiple inputs, allowing you to have one box with a volume control, yet choose which player you want to hear, by way of choosing the associated input on the pre-amp. Any device that has a volume control can feed your amp, directly, such as a CD player that has a volume control. But if you have more than just a CD player (maybe you have a stand-alone tuner or a turntable or tape deck, etc), then to avoid having to switch cables, you plug everything into the pre-amp, and then choose the input on the pre-amp that will determine which device's sound will be passed on to the amp.
Note that turntables must first be amplified via a phono-amp, which then feeds the pre-amp, which then feeds the amp, which finally feeds the speakers.
Many pre-amps come bundled with a phono-amp. In such a case, you would be able to plug your turntable into your pre-amp (you are really plugging it into the phono section of your pre-amp).
Receivers are pre-amps that have other components bundled in. For example, receivers typically include a tuner, a stereo amplifier, tone controls, and maybe a phono amp. Every item that comes bundled with a receiver can be purchased individually.
In a nut-shell, amps, by themselves, do nothing other than amplify the analog signal that it receives from the pre-amp. The louder the pre-amp's signal, the louder the amps will amplify that analog signal.
You have a rare gift: explaining complex subjects in an easy to understand method and making the experience enjoyable.
I've just ventured into the world of a Chord 2Qute DAC...absolutely stunning. Best hifi separate I have bought in 30 years
Old duds that are just coming back to an interest in good music like me really appreciate the step by step, explanation of stuff that everyone else assumes you know. Technology changes faster than we can assimilate.
THANK YOU! I’m now ALMOST understanding DAC.
🤣🤣
Same!
I could still use a good interpreter.
I love John's videos for their perfect amalgam of explanation, market(isation) context, wryness, foregrounded distractions, and a certain kind of generosity that is lacking in much of modern life.
You have a natural tallent for explaining things on camera.
I really loved hearing about gear you used to use. To some of us beginners, it can seem like audiophiles just start out with the best of the best, and it’s refreshing to hear stuff about your journey to where you are now!
That Marantz CD player was the go to CD player back in the day. Great sound for a sensible price. I'm only just starting to really get back into my audio setups now because life got in the way, so its nice to see something I can relate to in videos like this one. I need a half decent DAC to feed my Swan speakers so I can hear them at their full potential, hence watching videos like this where someone just speaks openly, honestly, and without all the waffle so many others are prone too.
I love how you're actually a guy who genuinely knows what he's talking about through years of experience instead of some big name TH-camr who acts like they know what they're talking about when in reality, they just got sponsored.
OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH SHIIIITTTTT! WHO YOU TALKIN BOUT???
Who?
I needed this. So many other videos assume you already know what a DAC is and why you would need one.
This was an excellent introduction to DACs. I learned so much more in your 18 minute video than I did hunting for articles on the topic. Thank you for the clear and easy to understand presentation.
John, this video is the epitome of why I subscribe to your channel. It’s not just that I learn new facts, rather, you help me build a learning trellis that allows me to interweave the facts and concepts into a gestalt. Thank you for your efforts!!
What a great explanation on DACs. I lost count on the number of times the penny dropped. Thanks.
Yep, same for me. Thanks John. 👍🏻
Impressed with your no fuss attitude to what is a snobbish marketplace, thankyou
Such a good watch! I love how you repeat the fundamental truth: external DACs just sound better. My first external DAC was a Dragonfly black, v1.2. It was US$100. I swear to anyone who is on the fence about spending the money, I can hardly think of another example of $100 buying me so much happiness. The difference to my home stereo was immediate and striking. To make sure I wasn't crazy, I did some blind sound tests on my wife--a self-described non-audiophile. She also fell in love, and could instantly hear the difference 100% of the time.
I really want to get one. How can i connect one to a phone (Note 10+) that doesn't have a headphone jack?
And also, is there a way for it to improve sound over Bluetooth? (sorry if this is a dumb question).
@@HFIntegrale You always connect it via USB to your smartphone :)
Because the DAC needs the audio in digital form so that it can work properly.
The Note 10+ supports OTG which means with an USB C to A Adapter you can use this thing as your sound output device.
I like how you call it distraction.
Not everything is ironic, wish more people did such things, being simple.
Please do more videos like this as it was full of useful information and we can use these videos as a reference in the future ... Maybe start a series on How to build a Hi-Fi system for beginners as some of us are not experts. To date, I have spent nearly £8,000 on a system which sounds excellent I didn't know anything about Hi-fi systems until I started watching your Videos less than a year ago !!
THANK YOU for your explanation. Thank goodness I saved my fathers CD music collection (shit load of thousand of serious eclatic of music) and starting to understanding his favorite past time listening to his 2-channel setup audio setup. The Mcintosh Mc2205 and C29 Preamp. Thanks Pops, RIP you a great man, I love you!
Clear, concise, non douchy. Appreciate the information. Subbed
This is one of the most informative, beginner friendly videos I’ve ever watched. Thanks for this content! I literally started researching DACs a day ago and this already has me feeling more comfortable with my comprehension and excited to put a functional system together
I love John's videos. (The take-a-way)
"Hey, you might want to try an external DAC because by doing so your music might sound better."
Well alright then... Keep up the great work👍
New to this game after the world of work taken over my life! Great information - now will connect my CD player and Chromebook via an external DAC. Thanks for clear and honest appraisal.
It’s great you highlight the importance of redbook (aka CD quality) playback - I find that this is not stressed enough given most of the digital content is available in this format. And frankly, most of the high res content doesn’t sound any better than their CD versions. I think in fact DAC reviews should always have a section analyzing how well a particular DAC plays redbook.
Darko, you rock brother! The delivery of the information that you provide, versus how countless other TH-cam bloggers provide is what keeps me watching, connected and subscribed. I am sharing this video with a couple other of fellow novice audio enthusiasts. Keep up the great work!
Exactly the type of information I'm looking for as I explore my digital setup and getting the best possible sound for my music collection and getting it to my speakers. Thank You
Best video ever on DACs. Your history with them really covered their evolution. Thanks John
Tight, concise, well presented video with a splash of dry humor - well done!!
Wonderful how zooming in past the distractions helps when talking about a specific HiFi component.
Subscribed. Simple honest advice, presented in a simple manner. Can't beat that schiit.
Wait... only grampa's are allow such punning!
Super great! I now understand DACs better. Just starting to get into audiophiles stuff lately and have been asking myself what DAC is. Thank you so much, this is a huge help
Mr Darko - really enjoyed the general break down of ideas - connections of dacs/streamers so simple but really interesting 👍🏻 need more simple stuff - keep it going john ....
Thanks John. You do make things simple and clear.
That cleared up a couple of questions to help me catch up with tech after a 26 year break from good audio.
A tiny step... let’s see where it goes.
Brilliant upload. Making sense of the "new" tech for dodos like myself who have been mystified for a while regarding this technology.
Cheers, John! 👍👍
This is information we all needed....even if many here already know it, the simple fact that you remind us of what so often ends up as distractions? SOOoooo on point. My next dac upgrade is taking me some time (due more to indecision than finances), and you've just help me remember what's most important. The sound, baby! The sound.
I'm so glad that I chose to watch this video. As a budding audiophile I appreciated the simplistic explanation of where dacs are found, as well as whether or not an external dac is worth it.
Thank you for providing an intuitive and relaxed look at how DAC's can benefit us.
Thanks so much John for helping me up the beginner curve!
Thanks for an interesting, intelligent and simple explanation of what these DACs are all about... well done!
So glad someone is associating DACs within CD players.
This is well done for the beginner. Having been "into" audio since I was a kid, and buying my first true stereo system in college (38 yrs ago) I bought my first stand-alone DAC when I got into headphones 10 years back. Side note: I went thru the transition from vinyl to CD. What you have access to today from a DAC standpoint is amazing. Don't underestimate the impact of a DAC, it plays a very key role.
I really like the way you demystify the whole process of analogue digital audio , thus restricting the hyperbole preached by many so called audiophile aficionados to the trash can where it belongs . My take is if it sounds better it probably costs more and then there is the aesthetic pleasure of just gazing at the device, not wanting to replace something every year may be a good indication the choice was the right one is also a consideration .
"big piece of schiit" caught me off guard, well done
Came looking for this...lol
Great vid. It reminded me of the thing that attracts me to audio which is the same as my chosen profession in software development and that is that you never truely master it 100%. There is always something to learn, a distraction to be ignored or a myth to be busted.
I myself was clueless about these DAC/Amp stuff like why some IEMS and Speakers can costs thousands of dollars until I was curious enough to step into those audio shops, where they allow you to experience them for yourself. I was quite skeptical myself until I experienced them 3 years ago and gotten friendly opinions or advises from the audio shop staffs.
Like Darko mentioned, every DAC sounds different from one another. I even find it funny that different quality of audio cables too affect the way the sounds project.
In the end, it all depends on mix and match of the headphones/speakers + DAC + AMP or even the cables quality to get the listening experience you're after for.
Always never ever buy them blindly without testing them for yourself. For me I would check out some reviews of those gears and then visit those audio shops to test them out myself.
Currently I'm using the Chord Mojo + Campfire Andromeda Gold IEMs with Ares II cables.
I'm a bit of an audio nerd myself. Your explanation was very good. A while back my son wanted to connect the audio from his L.G TV (with digital audio out only) to an analogue only amp and didn't think it was possible. No problem I said. To your point, another great use for a DAC.
Another great video John, always look forward to your videos popping up. I'd be pretty chuffed if you could do a beginners guide to streaming, something I'd like to get into but don't have any experience with. In particular what I find a headache is how to rip the hundreds of cd's I have, in the best possible format, store them and be able to play them through something like the LS50 wireless or a more traditional amp and standmounts.
Anyway great work, and thanks for your efforts.
I have been watching your videos for past one Year and always enjoyed it. Your way of presentation is very good. Very informative yet simple.
"I want to keep this as simple as possible"
…Gives you an entire history lesson.
Well, simple is relative. And just because something is lengty, doesn't mean it's complex. He could've also explain all the technicalties of how a dac works, the electrical engineering implementation and placebo effects etc.
"kiss" - keep it simple stupid, usually works best. Not that you or these comments are stupid...
This is the absolute best video for explaining a DAC.
Great review! Simple and easy to understand! THANK YOU!
I liked your walk down memory lane and did not mind your personal history. It always amazes me how different people take the same 0's and 1's of digital and make those same on and off bits of data sound different. You would think a dac is a dac is a dac, but I guess not so. Someone I worked with called burr browns, burr brownies.
VERY very helpful, very understandable. More “beginner’s guides” please! 👍🏼💗
This is the only youtube video which has effectively answered all of my questions. Thank you.
I'd been saving this up, finally watched it today and I really enjoyed it
I love these videos. I'm an enthusiastic audio newbie. I'm eager to learn. These vids are right up my alley. Thank you!
More personal, more “basic” topics,or just more Darko !
Just stumbled upon this video, I like it because it helped me decide on a new set up. Having left the active scene in late 80s when Akai was a thing, I have no doubt that external DACs were introduced to the consumers purely as an extra product generating revenue in an effort to stay competitive with pure digital, and yes, the built-in DAC one already has is more than enough unless you "need" it ; )
... and yes, I am buying one.
Thanks, enjoyed the video, would like to see more “off the cuff” videos if it means more content.
Since I got back in to audio, I’ve got the Chord Mojo, then based on your video I purchased a Chord Poly.
For my HiFi I switched from the internal DAC on my PS Audio Sprout100 to the Modi 3. Now I have a Rotel RA-10 amp (but with KEF R300, instead of LS50) on your recommendation and a Denafrips Ares2 DAC on Steve G’s recommendation. I’ve shelved the R300 for Maggie LRS thanks to Steve too. Because of you, Steve and Zeos (Kef R300, Fiio FH7 & Stax SRS 2170) I’m a happy non-audiophile.
Thank you very much
Doesn’t compare to my “Realistic” tuner amp , trombonics record player, Marantz 8 track tape deck and either a Westinghouse or Hotpoint simulated wood cabinet. Also love my unbalanced chinese solid core uninsulated speaker cable...
What a wonderful and highly informative video explaining the role of external dacs for both system use and portable as well! Really liked the different sizes and prices of the dacs covered so the people know that even if their budget is not huge, they can still improve the sound they hear. You did a good job explaining how the streaming services can have improved quality by using a dac. Just a real good 1!
Be great to see a video comparing the audio on streamers/external DACs like the Bluesound Node with AVRs that claim to have high quality audio DACs like the Yamaha RX-V685 and Denon AVRX3600
Simple and easy to understand and not riddled with unnecessary information. Thanks
Love your presentation style, really chills me in the evening!
Also trying to make a purchase decision in the next 24h, started research 24h ago XD:
Really goo info!
Also clarified the whole audio system ! YEEY, XD
Goodbuy Money :'(
As a music lover, of course, most if not all, the information presented is already apparent. However, to put in it such coherent way is refreshing. Keeping it simple is the key. Keep up the good work, John.
I would love a detailed explanation as to how a DAC can be the size of a thumbnail all the way up to the size of a rack-mounted server, and where the value/features are coming from between the two.
Briefly, the thumbnail size DAC, such as the Dragonfly, is meant for lower impedance (portable) headphones or IEMs which do not need great quantities of power to drive them (although the amazing Cobalt Dragonfly can competently drive many 300Ω headphones.) The larger, more complex DACs normally are used in higher end audio systems because they offer superior sound processing as well as more options in the form of the outputs. Instead of just the 1/8th stereo jack of a portable DAC the more sophisticated DACs may offer Balanced Outputs in the form of dual XLR jacks which then connect to a quality per-amp or integrated amp, or Left and Right RCA outputs to connect to an amp or integrated amp, or even coax or optical outputs to connect to a muti-channel processor for a home theater system.
Then there's the issue of the quality of the power supply that the DAC is using. The small portable DACS relay on USB power which may introduce noise into the signal and is very low voltage so not much amplification is possible. Better DACs tend to have much better power transformers and converters providing a more clean, consistent signal resulting in superior sound quality. And then many DACs are designed to be upgraded or user-modified, where it's possible to substitute in different DAC processor chips according to your personal tastes and as newer improved chips are developed. There are more reasons for the enormous variety of size and quality of DACs but I've listed the most common ones.
Oh yeah, there's also the fact that some people have more money than brains so savvy audio companies offer outrageously priced products meant to vacuum up the poor pitiful fool's cash. Yoink!
As you know, probably, chips nowadays can do a lot in a very small package. And since a DAC is a chip, itself doesn't need a whole lot of space. What does need space however are things like VRM's (Voltage Regulator Modules). A better regulated power in the system = better sound. Though you can get into audiophile territory here, for example: they make watches nowadays that are accurate to 1 second of drift in a thousand years. Do you need that? Probably not, but if you have the money to spare.... Also, you can technically improve sound by makeing sure the dac is always at exactly the same temperature. This will, again technically, improve sound. But things like that cost space, also you want to keep power channels and analogue sound channels away from each other as much as possible to avoid interference. So, to sum this up: a lot of things can improve sound, but it's like trying to see the picture quality of 2 screens that are basically the same, but 1 is 4k and the other is 1080p and you have to judge it from across the room. It can be done, but a lot of people can't.
Loved it - everything does not have to be big production ultimate hard sell. Sometimes the natural laid back approach is a breath of fresh air. I loved this video.
I bought the Chord Qutest recently, and while it certainly sounds great I didn't feel that it sounded any better in real listening and musical enjoyment terms than the Astell & Kern AK70 mk2 (less than half the cost) that I already had in my system.
I realised I was already happy with my set up and was just being influenced by marketing hype and review hype.
Enjoying your music is the most important thing and you really don't have to spend loads of money to get great sound. it's too easy to get swept up in the upgrade culture that surrounds hifi.
There are plenty of awesome network streamers and dac s on the market now for reasonable money that will make your music sound mazing!.
Agreed, I've heard a few DAC's and I really struggle to tell the difference in audio quality between any of them at all
There needs to be a video about the difference between how dacs sound.
Agree.. cheap flat DAC without volume control and colorization (without preamp) is good enough for me. Let's other tasks conducted by preamp-power- and good speakers! 😊
I have tried to explain the basics to people not familiar with all this stuff. I have failed at trying to keep is simple, and I tend to get into the weeds at times. I will now just refer them to this vid, thank you.
I remembered that one generation of iPod player was highly sought after due to its Wolfson chip. That was ages ago, I can't even remember what happened to my iPod!
Yup. It's true, I still have one!
Me too. Is the audioquest dragonfly chip much different than the fantastic audio in an iPod?
Thank you for taking us back to the beginning and explaining the evolution of DACs. I've been trying to sort this out for a while!
Would any of the DACs discussed thus far in the video (I'm 15min in lol) make audio coming out of a desktop PC also sound better the same way you say it will make audio sound better coming from the Macbook laptop? I can't figure out if the onboard audio on my motherboard (ASUS Crosshair Hero VIII) is any worse than an external DAC. If I buy a DAC, I want/need to make sure it's going to sound better than my current setup: USB output into 3.5mm headphone jack Y-split out to Left & Right powered M-AUDIO BX5a studio monitors.... so many things to choose from, sheesh!
Yes it should. But buy on Amazon and it there's no difference just return it. Try a Modi If you wanna be cost effective
It cleans up the sound, that's for sure. No need to get too expensive into DACs as the difference is quite negligible in an untrained ears. I've tried a 13$ dongle DAC vs a 130$ DAC and honestly couldn't tell the difference. If i can't tell the difference between 10x jumps in price i don't think it's worth going any higher, but that's just me.
Keep in mind if you buy a dedicated DAC you'd also need to buy a dedicated Amp to go with it, since DACs don't usually have a headphone jack (unless it has integrated amps). And most of them won't work with headphones that has 2 separate jack for mic and audio
I love your channel. Finally, got it why DAC is needed. Thanks for putting this together with the history.
Topping D10 here wonderful piece of technology for a bargain price ........ maybe even the best bang for the buck out there
toppings standalone dacs are really solid, i gave my father my d20 and he's been stoked with it. we're in the process of digitizing his cd collection so he can access it from a tablet, he's 85 and constantly amazed.
Alas, a DIY enclosure means it isn't beginner friendly.
I use mine daily, at work. Amazing quality and sound for the buck! Even comparing to my Nagra DAC!
First I'l say you did a marvelous job explaining what an external DAC does. I use the Schiit Modi 3 with my preamp (no DAC) to my stereo basic amp. My Cambridge Audio receiver has a high end built in DAC. Most receivers have no DAC or a mediocre DAC, but not Cambridge Audio.
hey John, loved it, I'll share the video with less "audio-savy" friends that are interested. But I think at the end you missed a quick the change to mention some notable exceptions like the LG VXX series which will have an internal dac better to some external ones (especially of the older/cheaper variety).
I have been a huge fan of Schiit products for several years. You're right that what's AFTER the digital conversion is extremely important. I just upgraded to the Schiit Lyr with multi-bit conversion ($699). I am also a lover of tubes and what they can do with digital audio. The audio output of the Lyr, using a single tube, is audibly more warm and rounded - perfect for the acoustic jazz, classical, folk, etc. music I gravitate to. I play everything flat, looking to hear what the producer, engineer, and artists want me to hear, and like a good turntable cartridge, a good DAC is worth the investment.
I know of no one who can connect a cable in a more satisfying way... Also: "audio file" 👍
Just Thankyou. It's so hard to assemble the info you have just given in an unbiased way. No one seems to be able to do it without the "distractions", you mention. Even guys at hifi shows. Just what I needed. Loved the format of the video. I like your unbiased way of presenting information. Always tells me exactly what I need to know whilst allowing me to make my own choices.. 👍👍(double thumbs up) 😀
I swear by my Schiit dac best value out there imo
Excellent video with so much information. I started with a FiiO then KANN DAC. After upgrading my main system I went with the Qutest and like you said, the Qutest is so much cleaner. It's separates the instruments and is very quiet between tracks. I'm grateful you post these videos and have learned a lot from them.
I learnt a lot from this, thankyou
Sound advice without the distractions makes for informative listening, well done and thank you.
Hi, I'd be interested to hear how you would rate the Apple TV 4K (connected to a Yamaha RX-V581) for Spotify.
Cheers
Dave
A perfect explanation of what a DAC does/is!👌👌👌👌
Hegel man here, although entry-level stuff. My first was a HD2, which now acts as a dac for my home office headphones. Main listening system uses a HD11. Think I'll stick to them for quite some time.
I think in this world going for what works for "you" is likely best lol.
Great, simple video!! I chose to use a DAC when i switched to appleTV ...I landed on the NAD C-510 because it supports HDMI ...I love it ...there's better and worse but this one does the job
Please do a guide to Streamers with or without builtin DAC.
Hi John,
This is brilliant stuff. I grew up in the old days of tube amplifiers (even built my own), and analogue amplifiers. I've also built my own speaker enclosures back in the day. Things have come such a long way.
Now that I am getting back into audio after a long hiatus, you're tutelage is very welcome.
Thank you for taking the time to create a very consumable tutorial.
:-)
Hahaha just what I was waiting for, I got the dragonfly cobalt today!!! Thank you!!!!! You are a star!!!
I tested the Cobalt the other day, it sure was a big improvement over the Red/Black. Have fun!
Fantastic video and thanks for creating this! Being a middle aged analog head stuck in the past, I really learned a lot. Great pacing and production! Hope you make more "beginner's guides"!
Eat static, now that brings back memories. Abduction was my first eat static CD I got from my brother back in 90s. Saw them live. No laptops obviously, but analog gear.
Very good explanation about DAC's. Well, I 've been doing it and listening to my music wrong all these years without an external DAC. Now I know!
I have been using the DAC in my preamp as my primary means to convert digital to analog but now I'm considering a standalone DAC. I have multiple sources (CD player, smart TV, xbox etc) but the external DACs seem to have only one input. How would I be able to use or switch different sources?
No, an external dac can have many inputs: Coaxial, Toslinkl USB.
@@mikomiko9733 I have never used an external DAC before, so please bear with me. But, each connection type has its own technical limitations as to how hi-res it could go right? Take the Chord Cutest for example, USB-B can handle 32 bit/768 kHz PCM/DSD 512, coaxial 24 bit/384 kHz or optical 24 bit/192 kHz DSD 64. And if you have multiple sources, you would have to compromise I suppose since you don't have multiple USB-B inputs? So, my CD/SACD hybrid player's DAC upsamples to 32 bit/192 kHz, do I still use an external DAC? Or like Darko says here, don't look at the numbers or the chip as there are other factors like the quality of the analogue output stage of the external DAC?
You explain such complicated things so simply. I am now a subscriber and fan of your channel sir. Keep up the good work.