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Digital vs Analog output on CD players

Folks, I'm sure this has been discussed before but I can not find the thread. I'm in the throws of experimenting with connecting my two CD players (yes I use two for the fun of the hobby and switch around; some CD's sound better on the NAD and others on the Rotel) via their digital ouputs to the digital inputs on my A-V receiver vs their analog jacks. What's the official scoop on this? Does using the digital outputs improve the overall soundstage, depth, detail, etc of the music being played? Are there any other benefits going digital vs analog? My hi-fi store sold me a digital interconnect and is letting me try it out. I can always go back to analog. I have the my NAD C541 connected via its digital output and my Rotel RCD-1072 via its analog outputs. So far, I am finding the differences to be subtle. What does everyone think on this? Many thanks. Sorry if I sound naive on this topic.
pdn

Showing 1 response by reubent

reubent
7,082 posts
 
Pdn,

When you connect via a digital cable, the digital to analog conversion is performed in the receiver. When connected via analog interconnects, the digital to analog conversion is performed in the CD player. Really it is going to come down to a matter of preference.

If you really want to "hear the difference" connect either CD player using both the analog and digital cable and then just switch the chosen input on the receiver to determine if you prefer the analog or digital option.

Enjoy,

TIC
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