SP2500 DSP clipping signal
Hi, i would like to get this out there for everyone who owns an Sp-2500 and those who are considering these magnificent speakers.
To get the most out of them, it should be self explanatory to use a decent soundcard or good onboard audio, especially a dedicated audiophile class soundcard as it will have more dynamic range and greater signal to noise ratio.
I highly recommend checking if there is an impedance differance between your sound card and the SP-2500 as the SP-2500 is built on the -10dBv standard, mismatched impedance may cost you dynamic range if you have too turn down the volume in order too not have the DSP clip the signal. If they are mismatched, try adding a preamp to your system.
One of the most important aspects of getting the most out of the speakers is that when listening to music, your soundcard should be turned way up to 100% to allow for max dynamic range and greater fidelity. These may sound like fancy words, but in the real world. It means more transparent sound, more depth, a more pronounced difference in loudness as dynamic range is a fancy way to say how big the difference between the loudest and the lowest sounds are, which again will help music come to life.
However, there is a flipside and an annoyance. Some Soundcards have a line out signal which is in the range of +4dBu which is too "hot" for the SP-2500. The SP-2500 is more at home with -10dB and will attenuate or "clip" away all peaks which are too loud for the DSP. Some will advice you to just turn down the volume, but that WILL cost you dynamic range and will make the sound seem distant and closed.
In short, if using a high grade Soundcard with "studio" grade specs. Using a preamp/receiver to control the input volume will allow you to set your soundcard to its maximum performance level whilst not overwhelming the speaker system and as such acheive the best sound.
As for preamps or receivers, any basic one will be better than none with a high ouput card such as the Essence STX. I myself prefer a tube amp as even though i have a good DAC, the output signal is not completely analog, and the tube will smooth the sound and take away some of the harsh characteristics.
ough...
Not a very tidy post, but hopefully people are able to understand some of it. Hope some will find it useful.
