Eversolo DMP-A8

I have the A8 for already 6 months. It gives me great choice of options, but I use only one: direct connection of XLR outputs to my Benchmark AHB2. The sound and stage are perfect for my taste and that is what matters. I have hooked up my Marantz AV8802A with the Benchmark using an XLR splitter to join the two paths before the amp. Since I listen either stereo music from the A8 or enjoy Dolby rendering of a movie the arrangement works fine. I chose the most direct connection between the A8 and the amp even if I were confident in the Marantz. Volume is controlled from A8 app and I do not change it often listening at 75-80 db.

I have what I pray is a simple question regarding the A8... if one uses the A8 as a streamer only ( S/PDIF or AES digital out to an extranl DAC), do the built in equalizer functions still work? trying to be clear. Curious if using the A8 as a streame ronly (no preamp or DAC usage), and outputtign digitally to a DAC, will changing the equalizer settings have any effect on the sound I will hear. This is not to stir the tone control debate :) Just seeking info from any A8 owner as to whether or not the digital tone controls built in to the A8 work when one does not use its analog outputs. Thanks!

I believe I answered my own question. Digging through the manual it appears the DSP functions (all of them) work only with the analog outputs of the A8. Those like me wishing to use the unit as a streamer via digital out will lose access to the DSP functions. I would welcome owners who can verify this interpretation on my part. Thx

Spend $2000 on Innuos or used Aurender  , Eversolo support is non existent...   one year warranty and it's a boat anchor if something happens outside that period.  

DSP functionality limits bit rate to 24/48.   These units are way over hyped.  Wait until you need support, you won't be praising the box so much.