How many switches do you have to flip the play a CD?
So it occurred to me the other day that I have to flip at least five switches to play a CD: one on each of my power amplifiers, one on my preamp, one on my digital to analog converter, one on the CD player (which I am only using as a transport) and another one on the DAC to make sure it's using the correct input.
And we wonder why high-end audio isn't a mainstream hobby? :-)
Anybody have to flip even more switches to play a CD?
So it occurred to me the other day that I have to flip at least five switches to play a CD: one on each of my power amplifiers, one on my preamp, one on my digital to analog converter, one on the CD player (which I am only using as a transport) and another one on the DAC to make sure it's using the correct input.
What about powered subwoofers? I have two for the 2-channel system.
Instead of CD transport and separate DAC, for me it's turntable, phono stage, line stage, amplifier, and subs. Actually, since the subs are class D that automatically turn on when they receive signal, I just leave those on. I'd leave the phono and line stages on all the time but they're tubed units with NOS tubes, which I want to last as long as possible.
Then there's the 7.2 surround system--TV, AV Pre/pro, Blu-ray player, 5-channel amp, 2-channel amp for rear surround speakers, and two subs. Again, the subs have automatic turn-on but the rest of the components have to be turned on for use.
To play any or all of my CD (files), I merely press one button on my iPad from my listening chair, and never have to move...Until my medicinal is requires refilling.
I'd call it a playful question. It just hit me a couple of weeks ago that I have to flip 7 switches from a cold start to play a CD! Not that it's a hardship, but I was wondering if a normal (read, "non-audiophile") person would put up with it. :-)
Harmony 1 universal remote will fix your flipping issues (assuming your gear has remote access). very easy to program as well. it's able to do multipal switching via a string of commands with one push of a button or touch screen.
This is why I use a universal remote. But even without it, flipping a few switches isn't that much work. In some parts of the world people still have to chop wood and carry water.
One thing that bothers me with DVD and Blu-ray is how long it sometimes takes to get to the actual movie, getting past trailers, animated menus, warnings, etc. CD is pretty good in that respect, in that it plays straight away.
I used to have to switch on a bunch of gear but then I got smart and bought a PS Audio P3 Power Plant. I programmed one outlet to be powered up at all times (for the preamp) and have the other 3 output banks set to power up my other components with a touch from the remote control. I also set different time delays for the amp and front end gear (and different for the ON/OFF sequences). How 'bout that!
preamp - 1, amp - 2, DAC - 3, CDP - 4, then 3 button-presses on the CDP itself - open, close, play. It's even more of an effort to get my PC audio setup going. Have to get the laptop out and plug in 5 cables, then hit power button, then get the software up, select music, double-click to play. Of course you must include the time required to access the fridge, grab a beer, find the opener, open the beer, and tuck the cap between my middle finger and thumb, then snap it across the room into the trash can.
Nonoise My CDP is on all the time so it's one switch for the integrated, one for 'open tray', the insertion of the disc itself, 'close' and then 'play'.
Oops, I forgot the mute switches for each preamp chasis. So make that 11. And for vinyl, you take out the transport and DAC but add the phono preamp, Walker Motor Drive, turntable motor and vacuum pump, so that would be 13. Good thing I don't have a power conditioner that needs to be switched on...
I have often pointed this out to friends who are non-audiophiles to point out the lengths to which we audiophiles go. All they do is turn on their receiver and the CD player (which they could leave on) and they have music. Leaving aside whether I leave something on 24/7, I have to turn on two preamp chasis, four amplifiers, an outboard crossover, a DAC and a transport to play a CD. So that's 9. Do I win something for that?
Just one on the remote,(play). Pre amp, amp and CD/SACD player are always on or in standby until a signal is detected. Three more if vinyl is selected.
Digital - why turn them off? I leave my CD player on all the time - but otherwise, three. 1 to get the preamp out of standby (but it's a button on the remote) and wait 60s; and 1 switch at the back of each power amp - then wait 2 minutes until the red lights stop flashing.
You must have a verified phone number and physical address in order to post in the Audiogon Forums. Please return to Audiogon.com and complete this step. If you have any questions please contact Support.
