Bright and zingy? Was that the Auto-Q result? Did you try manually adjusting the curve after doing the Auto-Q? I found the Auto-Q result to be understandable, but a bit bright. I moderated the curve by 1db (raising dips and lowering peaks, except in the bass), and this restored just the right amount of the Aeriuses' warmth. Not bright and zingy now.
Also, did you use it as a DAC, or did you insert it into the analog chain? The former has the theoretical advantage that the digital signal from the CD player is EQed while still in the digital domain, and the signal then goes through D/A conversion only once on its way to the preamp. If you put the EQ into a tape or processor loop, the CD player or outboard DAC converts the digital signal to analog, and then the Behringer converts it back to digital, EQs it, and then converts it to analog again. Three D/A conversions can't be a good thing.
Any comments on its relative merits as a DAC? I'm finding its EQ functionality thoroughly agreeable. I'm just curious whether the DEQ2496's DAC might be audibly better. I've got a cheapo HK CD changer and have never had the chance to A-B against a higher-end player or DAC, so I don't know what to expect or listen for, or how big a difference a DAC upgrade might make. Is the Behringer's DAC comparable to the HK's? A Rega Planet's? A $500 outboard DAC? I just have no idea.
Also, did you use it as a DAC, or did you insert it into the analog chain? The former has the theoretical advantage that the digital signal from the CD player is EQed while still in the digital domain, and the signal then goes through D/A conversion only once on its way to the preamp. If you put the EQ into a tape or processor loop, the CD player or outboard DAC converts the digital signal to analog, and then the Behringer converts it back to digital, EQs it, and then converts it to analog again. Three D/A conversions can't be a good thing.
Any comments on its relative merits as a DAC? I'm finding its EQ functionality thoroughly agreeable. I'm just curious whether the DEQ2496's DAC might be audibly better. I've got a cheapo HK CD changer and have never had the chance to A-B against a higher-end player or DAC, so I don't know what to expect or listen for, or how big a difference a DAC upgrade might make. Is the Behringer's DAC comparable to the HK's? A Rega Planet's? A $500 outboard DAC? I just have no idea.