Jump to content
IGNORED

DAC to Headphones?


Recommended Posts

I was wondering if someone could help me with a question regarding powering headphones from a DAC (which is capable of functioning as a preamp).

 

My girlfriend and I want to listen to headphones from the same source, but all the components of my setup only allow for a single active output with the exception of the Alpha DAC (has both balanced and unbalanced outputs, which I assume are both simultaneously active/enabled). The Alpha DAC also functions as a preamp, which is why I was hoping this might be a possibility.

 

I'm interested in going directly from the Alpha to headphones via the RCA-outs. The Alpha manual says:

"Unbalanced Analog Output Level

3.25 Vrms maximum into ? 5k? load 1.6 Vrms or lower recommended"

 

The headphones are Grado SR225i, which have an impedance of 38ohms.

 

If I use the ART HeadTAP in between the Alpha and Grados, will the Alpha be safe from any potential damage? The HeadTAP is ordinarily used to connect a speaker power amp to headphones, but I'm thinking I could use it to also protect a preamp. Thanks for any insight.

 

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/HeadTap

Passive Headphone Amplifier with Input for PA or Monitor Amplifier and Output for Connecting Headphones

...

The HeadTAP is a passive device with an input to connect the PA or monitor amplifier and an output to connect the headphones. A volume control regulates the headphone level and internal resistors keep the unit’s impedance high enough to protect the headphones. It also protects the amplifier from encountering too low a load impedance while powering tap units, the speaker system or several tap units by themselves. A good tap will also work with a stereo headphone amplifier for use in recording situations when you want to add headphones for additional performers.

 

Wavelength WaveLink HS -> Berkeley Alpha DAC -> Audio Space Reference 2 -> Woo GES -> Stax SR007A

Link to comment

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now



×
×
  • Create New...