Antelope Audio Zodiac DAC - Manual (Page 12)

7.3. Digital Audio Quality ‒ factors and settings
Guidelines to improve the audio performance of your computer-based audio system:
● Keep volume controls at 100% on all operating systems
● If you are using iTunes and/or Mac OS X, set the sample-rate in the Audio MIDI applet
located in the Applications / Utilities folder to match the file being played. By adding iTunes
plug-ins such as Amarra and Pure Music the sample rate will be matched automatically.
● For Windows 7 or Vista, sample rates can be automatically matched using WASAPI
enhanced players such as J River Media Center.
● Keep word-length settings at 24 bits. Even if you are playing 16-bit audio, it is recommended
to keep 24-bit settings.
● Turn-off operating system sounds.
● Keep all operating system’s DSP and plug-ins turned off. Applications, device drivers,
sound cards, etc., have various DSP effects such as EQ, Bass boost, surround sound, etc.
For best performance, visit our support pages and google for websites devoted to optimizing your
computer for audio performance.
7.4. I/O connections
Proper Digital Audio cables should be used for SPDIF and AES/EBU: Avoid using standard analog
audio cables for digital signal. Even though they might look the same, they are not designed for
digital audio and performance will be compromised.
● AES/EBU use 110 Ω shielded twisted-pair digital cables.
● SPDIF use 75 Ω coaxial (video) cables.
7.5. Ground Loop Hum and Noise
The design of Zodiac minimizes the possibility of ground loop hum and noise. However, we
recommend the use of short cables and balanced connections for all the audio signals of your
system. All power cables of the system should be connected to a dedicated outlet box or power
conditioner unit to avoid ground current noise affecting the audio signal path. It’s also advisable to
keep the layout of your signal and power cables separate.
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