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Using RCA & XLR connections at same time on Amp

I have been looking for a quality CD player to add to my system. Currently, I have a Pass 3x amp and a Naim av2 processor driving Joseph 22's.

The problem is that I use an Arcam Diva as both my dvd & cd player. So, I was thinking, what if I got a Mark Levinson 39. As it has the processor built in, I could leave the 5-DIN to RCA connections to AV2 for the Arcam DVD player and utilize the XLR connections from the ML to XLR connections on the Pass Amp. This way, I bypass the Naim unit entirely and use the theoretically better ML for two channel.

Is there a reason why this does not work. I was told by a Pass/Wadia dealer it would not work, why?

Also, I know Wadia and Mark Levinson have direct volume control and XLR connections, what other CD players have this processor functionality and have XLR connections?

Please advise.
yetis

Showing 2 responses by rkmca

rkmca
58 posts
 
Audioengr -- That's the reason I bought PCA-2 pre-amp, so I've excellent 2ch with HCA-2 and use HT bypass when I use the processor for home theater combining with a 3ch amp.
rkmca
58 posts
 
I've done something similar, it works but sound quality varies, which I think was due to impedance mis-matching.
I've used PS HCA-2 which is balanced and have both RCA and XLR inputs. I've hooked up my Wadia 301 using XLR to XLR of HCA-2 and front L/R pre-outs from my Parasound processor using RCA to RCA of HCA-2. Just turned off the Parasound when I was using the Wadia, worked perfect.

The difference I've noticed was that if I don't turn off the Parasound and switch the source to a input which is not hooked up and play the cd player, sound level, resolution, bass evrything was higher. But if I turn it off and just use the cd player, sound level just drop and I've increase the volume level on Wadia.

I ended up getting a pre-amp with HT bypass and everything is perfect now. I run the Wadia with full volume through the pre-amp, get bigger soundstage, better resolution. I may lose some detail as Wadia is better in detail if you run direct to an amp.

I think you should try a pre-amp with HT bypass like PS PCA-2, ML 38/380. There may be others, I sure someone can provide you with some advice. Try to audition using a pre-amp before you buy a new cd player.
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