Optical Digital vs Analog In

[Ken Hicks]

I just bought an Onkyo A-9010 integrated amp and a C-7030 CD player. I'm using the little R1 remote cable between the two units so I can control the CD player with the remote from the amp. I came across a digital optical cable and hooked it up and things went a wry. Evidently, according to Onkyo, you can't use an optical input in conjunction with the R1 remote feature. This begs the question - which would be the more desirable setup - digital optical cable and two remotes or analog RCA cable and one remote?

 

[jobrewer1983]

I just bought an Onkyo A-9010 integrated amp and a C-7030 CD player. I'm using the little R1 remote cable between the two units so I can control the CD player with the remote from the amp. I came across a digital optical cable and hooked it up and things went a wry. Evidently, according to Onkyo, you can't use an optical input in conjunction with the R1 remote feature. This begs the question - which would be the more desirable setup - digital optical cable and two remotes or analog RCA cable and one remote?

Hey Ken,

Welcome to the site!

Did you notice any sound differences?

My current rig has one remote for the CDP, but when I have my adcom gear in place I'm running 2. I can't give info on your current set up, but can say it can be a pain to have 2 remotes... that's just me.

As long as you don't loose sound quality with one over the other it's really personal choice. I'd try both configuration for a week each and see what you like best!

Again, welcome to the site.

Kind Regards,
John

 

[bigx5murf]

Depends on which device has the better DAC.

 

[ev13wt]

Depends on exactly that: Whatever "sound signature" you like, do that. The differences should be very, very tiny.

 

[Bodyblue]

Unless you have a lot of RF noise or your analog cables are damaged, there will be tiny, if any difference in sound.

 

[Ken Hicks]

Thanks for the replies.

 

[twiiii]

I have to agree there should be very little difference. Back in the old days, 90,s and earlier, you could hear the difference , between coaxial, optical and analog quite easily. I was never really able to determine always whether it was the player , or the HT processor. But as time has passed with equipment developed and produced in the last 5 years the differences have become infinitesimally small . MY Cd recorder has issues, however. The recorded disc played on another player sounds like the original but when played back on the recorder either using optical or analog has an added edginess and harshness to the sound. I realize the unit was designed and produced in the 2000's decade, but I thought after 20 years of the CD format the process would have been nailed down. Guess not!.