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Apple TV - 44.1 kHz output

I have read in multiple places that the Apple TV outputs in 48 kHz; however, looking at my Audio Midi Setup on my new MacBook Pro the only listed option is 44.1 kHz / 16 bit for AirPlay to the Apple TV. The same option is available for the Apple Airport Extreme AirPlay output. Ironically, there are options to increase the bit depth for the internal speakers.

Maybe things have changed as I have a new Macbook Pro and Apple TV.
mceljo

Showing 2 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
It may be that the ATV resamples the data since it is also a video device.

You can get hi-res from the ATV by adding a Synchro-Mesh, which also reduces jitter significantly. The output is 24/96 in the standard version or optionally 44.1. The ATV and AirPort Express are notorious for higher jitter and need a reclocker like the Synchro-Mesh for music to sound good. Most modern DACs sound better with 24/96 because of the digital filter used in the DAC with that sample-rate. You get both hi-res and low jitter with the Synchro-Mesh.

You can add the Dynamo power supply option and make it world-class too.

Synchro-Mesh:
http://www.empiricalaudio.com/products/synchro-mesh

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Mcelgo - There are lots of reclocking DACs, but the reclockers in those DACs are not of this quality, so the result is usually disappointing. A good reclocker like the SM can take the sound quality from harsh and fatiguing and change it to smooth, live and engaging.

Your digital source is a actually more important than the DAC. If the source has jitter, even a DAC with reclocking will sound bad. It's analogous to a turntable and a preamp. You can spend a fortune on the preamp, but if you don't have a really really good cartridge, the preamp is a waste of money. Better to get a really good cartridge and a mediocre preamp. Likewise, many of my customers have the Synchro-Mesh driving an inexpensive Chinese DAC.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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