[fluke242]

I have a PS3 that I use for music, movies, and games.  I only run 2-channel audio but sometimes the sources are only available in surround sound. 

Will the Insight DAC simply convert anything I toss at it, or are there limitations I should be aware of? This will be my first venture with a dedicated DAC and appreciate any advice or success stories using the PS3 as a source.

Ideally I am thinking of adding one more matching amp and purchasing the Insight pre-amp/DAC. 

Thanks!
John

[gjs_cds]

The Insight DAC reads the (redbook) 2-channel PCM digital audio signal, which is 16 bit sampled at 44.1khz.

Most digital players have a setting to convert all digital out to PCM.  (Even most multi-channel (surround sound) DVD players have an option to 'downconvert' to PCM.)  Check the specs on your player, but my hunch is that you can make it work.   The insight won't "convert everything", but it does accept the most widely used industry standard out there.  (And despite what you may read or want to believe, people cannot reliably detect between 16/44.1khz signals and 24/96khz signals.  The magic isn't in the sampling or bitrate, it's what is done with the signal after conversion.)

I think you've got a really great idea.  Use the Sony as a transport, and the DAC for HiFi audio.  (Continue to use the PS3 analog out for games, if you're into the surround-sound gaming environment.) 

My first purchase would be the Insight PreAmp, and then the DAC (if funds didn't allow a simultaneous purchase).  I think a great pre-amp would give you better bang for your buck. 

What amp are you planning on running?  The AVA Insight Control Amp may be a great option for you...

[fluke242]

Thanks for the specs!  I was not aware it was limited and will see what options I have on the PS3.  I was hoping it could also help with DVD audio tracks in movies, and even my games, but it sounds like I may have limited results depending on the PS3's output. (Granted I am 2-channel only anyway)

I am running an Aragon 8002 amp and also been meaning to ask if this amp would work in the differential configuration.  I read something about a common ground or lack of needed?

My current pre-amp is a Sony TA-2000ESD, on bypass mode 24x7 and only 2-channel.  I love music it just so happens I also play games and watch movies on occasion. 

I appreciate the advice on the pre-amp and will seriously consider it - especially reading prices go up 15% soon.... eek. 

John

[gjs_cds]

For the record, I don't view the Insight as limited--but rather it does what it does, and it does it well.  Most cars take regular-grade gas.  That's not a limitation, it's an industry standard.  The Insight accepts the industry standard.  Are there other DACs that accept other digital formats?  Sure there are.  Does that make it better than the Insight?  Not necessarily.  Let your ears decide.  (My very strong prejudice would be to suggest features and quality are not related.  I would rather have an audio component do what it does very well, rather than accept multi-formats kinda-sorta-well.)

P.S.  Your PS3 has all kinds of digital audio settings, and can be set to run the PCM (16 bit / 44.1 khz) standard. 
http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/audiooutput.html

The only catch is that SONY is trying to keep their optical format alive--so you'll need to pick up an optical to coax converter.  Frank sells 'em, and you can pick them up all over the net; not a big deal.  (Truth be told, it would be cheaper to just pick up an upconverting DVD player and use it as a transport--unless you're big into BluRay.)

Follow-up: Straight from the Sony manual:  [Linear PCM 2 Ch.] audio is set to be output from all output connectors by default. If you change the audio output settings, audio will be output only from the connectors that were set.

[fluke242]

Thank you!  This project sounds promising.   

John

[sueata1]

GJS,,,,,

ELABORATE ON WHAT HAPPENS TO THE SIGNAL AFTER CONVERSION??

MEL