Is DEQX a game changer?

Hi Bruce. If you mailed me your configuration file I could have a look at how it's been set up (its a .mzd file stored in the DEQX folder on your PC/Laptop). This would allow me to see all your measurements and how Larry set it up. If the file is too large we could use Dropbox or similar (my working config file is 9MB but this has measurements for 4 sets of speakers and 3 types of Sub, yours should be much simpler)

This doesn't mean I would change anything unless you wanted me to but if you then asked questions about any of the features, I could modify the file, save another version and send it back to you to load and try out
Cheers
Andrew

Though I myself find a stand alone dedicated device like the DEQX much more appealing than software loaded onto a computer, it is interesting that though Stereophile gave the DEQX an enthusiastic review, in the very same edition they gave a preferential nod to the far less expensive DIRAC software program (that also seems to be able to better handle 24/192).

Unsound ... not sure if this post is responsive to what you just posted. In my case, I am using the DEQX principally for its time alignment and room EQ functionalities in analogue mode. And as many have already posted, the DEQX works very well in these functions.

Yes ... the DEQX PreMATE has an onboard DAC. In fact, as I posted somewhere above, my "redbook" ARC Ref CD-8 CDP is hooked up to the PreMATE via two modalities: (1) analogue through my ARC Ref 5 SE preamp in "normal" analogue fashion and (2) digitally via the digital output of CD-8 directly into the PreMate's XLR input. In the later case, my CDP is acting merely as a transport and the PreMATE is the DAC.

I have not come to a unequivocal view as yet whether I prefer the analogue or digital hook up for my CD-8. The ARC CD-8's onboard DAC is based on a Burr Brown 1792 (I think) chip and is very good. The DEQX's DAC is based on a Burr Brown 1795 (I think) chip and is also very good and sounds very similar to the CD-8 albeit a little different. Just not sure which I like better.

My point is that while the DEQX PreMATE can do a more than just time alignment and room EQ, the foregoing functionalities are its signature

11-22-14: Bifwynne
... my "redbook" ARC Ref CD-8 CDP is hooked up to the PreMATE via two modalities: (1) analogue through my ARC Ref 5 SE preamp in "normal" analogue fashion and (2) digitally via the digital output of CD-8 directly into the PreMate's XLR input. In the later case, my CDP is acting merely as a transport and the PreMATE is the DAC.

Hi Bruce,

At the risk of adding further complication to an already very complicated assessment and adjustment process, I'll mention that I would keep in mind the possibility that the sonics you hear from the analog and the digital outputs of your CDP MIGHT be affected, at least slightly, by having both of those outputs connected into your system simultaneously.

Having multiple paths in the system through which signal return (ground) currents can flow, some of them associated with digital circuitry and some with analog circuitry, raises a caution flag in my mind about the possibility of one affecting the other, at least slightly. And also the possibility of issues arising from ground loops involving those signal return connections and the AC safety ground wiring of the three components. And, finally, the possibility of low-level "crosstalk" within the DEQX between the digital and analog inputs, if and when signals are provided to both at the same time.

Best,
-- Al

Thanks Al. Interesting point. Admittedly, I have an irrational bias (pun) to using the DEQX in analogue mode. That is, my CDP is hooked up to my Ref 5 SE preamp, and the DEQX is inserted in between the Ref 5 and my amp. I suppose I can't bear the thought that my Ref 5 is no longer needed.

Al ... I'll check the sound playback on a with and without basis. As far as ground loops are concerned ... nothing I can discern at this point.

Now ... the cross talk point may be relevant. At times, it seems that my CDP is playing in "mono'ish" mode. I wonder .... uuhhm.

Cheers,

Bruce