Output Connections - HEED obelisk da User Manual

Cables, connector selection and general advice
S/PDIF connection — The standard S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format) digital connection was originally
designed for test and measurements. It has become the default standard across the industry and requires no special
drivers.
Theoretically, there are no differences between the signals transmitted via optical TOSLINK or coaxial S/PDIF connectors
— both carry exactly the same information. Selection of one over the other rests mainly on the availability of appropriate
connectors on the chosen equipment and the preference and convenience of the user. In practice, there are pros and cons
with both. TOSLINK cables do not work well (and may even suffer permanent damage) if tightly bent, and their high (light)
signal attenuation limits their effective cable length to approx. 6 metres (20 ft). On the other hand, TOSLINK cables are not
susceptible to ground loops and RF interference, like coaxial cables.
In terms of sonic performance, however, we are convinced that coaxial connections have the edge over optical ones.
As always, please use Premium grade cables for optimum performance, do not use cheap low grade cables.
USB connection — This is a computer and OS industry standard with the following features.
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Extremely wide hardware support.
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Native drivers in all major operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux).
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Allows the use of any music player software and requires no custom device drivers.
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Native support for USB Audio 2.0 on Mac, Linux and Unix, Windows driver is available at www.heedaudio.com
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Technically, this an excellent low jitter solution.
However, care must be exercised when using USB connection.
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Do not use the same USB output port on your computer which you have any hard drives connected as it can
cause considerable noise, jitter and interference, it is better to keep the USB bus free and use FireWire or e-SATA
for external drives.
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RAM — Run the maximum your computer will allow. 4GB for Windows 32 bit and 8GB for 64 bit. For Mac, visit
http://www.mactracker.ca.
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Use Premium cables. Do not use cheap printer grade cables.
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Use a separate Line Conditioner / supply for all your computer equipment, keep it separate from you Hi-Fi
equipment mains supply.

Output connections

LINE OUT: The Obelisk DA has two Line Out (RCA) connections [7] available, one with 1.25V output voltage as a direct
connection from the converter, while the other one is boosted to 2.5V by a dedicated preamp section (similar to the
analogue circuit of the Obelisk Pre) making it an ideal source for fans of passive pre-amps.
When connecting the Obelisk DA to the pre-amplifier, ensure that the "L" (left) and "R" (right) channels are
connected correctly.
If you have problems, contact your Heed dealer and seek advice.
It is strongly recommended to use the highest quality interconnect cables between your digital source devices
and the Obelisk DA and also from the Obelisk DA to the pre-amplifier and your other hi-fi components.
- The best quality interconnects significantly enhance the performance of your system.
Your HEED dealer will certainly help you to choose the right connections for your particular set-up.