Set up questions for Panasonic SA XR45 users...

Jonathan · « **on:** 16 Dec 2003, 12:53 am »

I have read the ongoing discussions here and elsewhere regarding the Panasonic XR45 and I am thinking of trying one out. I do have a couple of questions about hooking it up, though.

Can I hook up my Sony NS500V SACD/DVD player digitally and still use it in multichannel mode or am I limited to two channel only this way?

I also have a Pioneer PD-65 for redbook CD that has a few different digital out options. Which is best, and how much does a guy have to spend on digital cables to get something decent sounding?
Thanks much for your input...

Jon

Cens · « **Reply #1 on:** 16 Dec 2003, 02:16 am »

Jon,

I'm running a Pioneer DV45a through the coaxial digital output to my Xr45. Although I only use two channels, the default setting was for multi-channel. It seemed to be working because of the rather odd balance coming out of my two mains, like some signal was being sent to non-existent rear and center speakers. Someone with multiple speakers can likely confirm my observation, but I think you'll be fine.

I'm connecting the Pioneer to the Panny with one of the Stereovox HX?? coaxial cables. I like it and others at this site seem to as well. Seems like it isn't even there -- a pretty good trick. Not sure if you can still pick them up for $75, but even at $100 it seems like a good deal. The Panny also accepts optical inputs but, being a bit of a HT dolt, I'm not exactly sure what purpose they serve. Think it has something to do with using DTS or the like on DVDs.

One note, even after about 200 hours of break in and with a non-stock (and non-bright) power cord (run through a decent adaptor), the XR45 is a bit on the fatiguing side after awhile, at least in my nominal Ht set up (the above gear with Von Schweikert VR1s as mains). Could be the DVD player, which only has about 20 hours of CD play on it, but suspect that the XR45 is part of the overall brightness. Your tastes and ears may differ.

Regards,

Chris

bubba966 · « **Reply #2 on:** 16 Dec 2003, 02:25 am »

Jon,

Your Sony won't pass SACD digitally. So the only multichannel you'll get through the digital outs on your Sony will be either DTS or Dolby Digital.

As for a good digital cable, I've been very, very impressed (have bought 5 Bolder digitals so far...) with the Bolder Cables digital cables. They start at $75 for the basic .5m cable.

Cens · « **Reply #3 on:** 16 Dec 2003, 03:07 am »

Bubba,

Good point on the SACD -- hadn't thought about that. I'm assuming that the Sony would allow the CD signal to be passed digitally, no?

Regards,

Chris

Jonathan · « **Reply #4 on:** 16 Dec 2003, 03:15 am »

Quote from: Cens

One note, even after about 200 hours of break in and with a non-stock (and non-bright) power cord (run through a decent adaptor), the XR45 is a bit on the fatiguing side after awhile, at least in my nominal Ht set up (the above gear with Von Schweikert VR1s as mains). Could be the DVD player, which only has about 20 hours of CD play on it, but suspect that the XR45 is part of the overall brightness. Your tastes and ears may differ.

Hmmm, that's kind of what I'm afraid of. I did the experiment with the Sony C70 all-in-one unit and although it was okay, I did not feel that it merited all of the effusive accolades I read about it and ended up selling it. I'm afraid I'll end up doing the same thing with the XR45, too.

I may just get one and then return it if it's not to my liking.

Thanks for the info, Chris.

Jon

bubba966 · « **Reply #5 on:** 16 Dec 2003, 03:20 am »

Quote from: Cens

Bubba,

Good point on the SACD -- hadn't thought about that. I'm assuming that the Sony would allow the CD signal to be passed digitally, no?

Regards,

Chris

Yes, the Sony would output CD's through the digital out as well as DTS & DD.

Just not SACD. That'll have to be input via analog to the XR45, or any other pre/pro.

Ears · « **Reply #6 on:** 17 Dec 2003, 05:20 pm »

Chris, you need at least 3 weeks of 24/7 on the 45 and at least 200 hours on you source before making any judgements.

Mine never sounds harsh or sibilant after break in and trying a couple different sources that were broken in and I am listening through revelator tweets which as the name implies are very revealing.

The 45 also likes power conditioning and you do not need the mega-buck conditioners as a Powervar or Oneac conditioner are cheap and will clean your power for less.