DAC break-in question

So the answer is pretty simple -

running streamer into DAC (try to set up a playlist consisting of music with different bit rates and set it on repeat) without your amplifier on: you’re breaking in the digital in, power supply and the DAC section. You’re not breaking in the output section. To do a full end to end break in your amp or preamp that DAC is connected to has to be on. You can choose to break in the analog out section while listening and keep the digital front end running 24/7 with amp off and it will take a few days more. The digital section and power supply break in will be typically around 200hrs.
Or bite the bullet and keep the amp on for few days. When amp is off the signal from DAC analog out is not flowing. 

I agree. In my experience if I hated how a cable or a component sounded right out of the gate no amount of break in could help. 

 

mofimadness

5,092 posts

02-20-2025 at 09:27am 

The amp does NOT need to be on to break-in the DAC.
 

true for the DAC section. But you are not working the analog out. For that to happen you need to complete the circuit and that only takes place when the amp is on. 

@mofimadness the DAC section is on and working. The analog stage is on but there will be no signal on the analog outs from the DAC if the amp the DAC is connected to is off. So that entire part of the dac takes few days to settle which is not a big deal but again the DAC output is only working if the amp/preamp it is connected to is on. Hey if I’m wrong it wouldn’t be the first time. Let me know what you hear from the experts. 

 

jasonbourne71

1,261 posts

02-20-2025 at 09:46am 

The power of confirmation bias!
 

Try taking off those shades man. You might see the world in a different light

 

jaygilb

5 posts

02-21-2025 at 11:11am 

If your computer or microwave oven doesn't need a break-in period, then the same goes for your audio gear.
 

I log in once a day for entertainment. This is it.