MiniDSP & EPL

[mstrshikadance]

Does anyone have any experience using a MiniDSP for DIrac Live with the EPL in/out in any preamp?

This seems like the best method to implement Dirac Live so that I can turn it on and off depending on my preference.

I will eventually purchase a MiniDSP Flex all digital with the intention of putting it in front of my DAC to minimize the D/A - A/D conversions, but for now my unit does not have digital outputs.

Any other implementation suggestions?

Thanks!

[admin]

Don't have the miniDSP but I have used their calibration mics for audio setups. They are a solid company making good products.

I guess my question is: What are you trying to achieve?

Dirac Live is like any other calibration software that has its pros and cons. I think it is fine to use as a starting point but your ears are the final judge. My approach is to use calibration and then adjust to ear.

Also, keep in mind that if you do digital signal adjustment prior to your DAC, you are pretty much negating the DAC as you have already changed the signal and the miniDSP is it's own DAC. So pretty much running the signal through two DACs with the first one manipulating the signal.

[admin]

You may want to watch this. It's Paul McGowan's (from PS Audio) view on Dirac. I pretty much agree with him (ie that this stuff is for hometheater but not ideal for 2 channel),... but everybody has their own opinion.

https://youtu.be/NDyi5bkR-z0

[Wildcat]

I attended a presentation at an audio show by Bob Hodas, who runs a business tuning studios and listening rooms. He had some solid advice. Essentially, placing your speakers and listening in the correct places is a first step, room treatments second, and only some mild EQ if it's absolutely needed (and at the time, I believe he mentioned that his company built a custom EQ box tuned for the specific application.

Short version: fix the positioning and the room first, then use electronics as a last resort if needed.

One other thing he points out, which is very valid and something to consider. If you tune a room with a microphone, you are tuning it for only one place in the room. Anywhere else, the frequency response will be skewed, either slightly or by a lot, depending on where in the room you sit. In addition, automatic EQ will boost the bass if it is deficient at the microphone, which could cause someone to overdrive their amplifier(s).

Bob's site has a lot of resources to read through.

http://www.bobhodas.com/educational-resources.php

[AnotherJohnson]

Short version: fix the positioning and the room first, then use electronics as a last resort if needed.

That’s for SURE!

[admin]

Short version: fix the positioning and the room first, then use electronics as a last resort if needed.

100% agree. This is my philosophy on the matter as well.