| Do I need a Monitor Controller for LIO/ ULN8 for audiophile listening results at lower volume levels [message #86288] |
Mon, 07 December 2015 05:59  |
tompisa
Messages: 85
Registered: June 2012
Location: Germany
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Member |
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I am wondering if I need an analog monitor controller due to the fact that digital volume controls reduces the bit resolution of the signal when listening at lower levels.
I heard that even with the LIO and ULN-8 volume control it is necessary to run the outputs of the LIO/ULN8 through a professonal monitor controller (for example the Drawmer MC 2.1) for better non - bit reduced listening scenarios at lower volume levels .
For me its not a bad thing to have an additional monitor controller but just from a listening perspective I would appreciate if someone can tell me if it would make sense (or not). By reading the theory of the bit- reduction effect when controlling volumes in the digital space it makes perfect sense IMO . But well I am not experienced enough to judge.
thanks in advance
[Updated on: Mon, 07 December 2015 06:01] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: Do I need a Monitor Controller for LIO/ ULN8 for audiophile listening results at lower volume le [message #86289 is a reply to message #86288] |
Mon, 07 December 2015 06:39  |
bj
Messages: 638
Registered: July 2011
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Senior Member
Administrator |
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No - you don't need one, because you already have one!
The LIO-8 and ULN-8 do not have digital volume control.
The LIO-8 and ULN-8 have digitally controlled ANALOG volume control. There is no bit reduction when you use the Monitor Control via the analog outputs (or headphone outputs) on a LIO-8 or ULN-8.
So, if you find an external monitor controller to be more convenient, then that would be a reason to use an external monitor controller.
It is hard to find a monitor controller that performs at the level of analog monitor control circuit that is built into the LIO-8/ULN-8. Most folks who try an external Monitor Controller find that it either degrades the signal, or at best performs no better than what is already integrated. You will have to spend a significant fraction of the cost of a LIO-8 to get a stereo monitor controller that is in its league, and you will have to spend more than what a LIO-8 costs for a surround controller that is in its league.
So, unless you specifically want the tactile control provided by a high-end monitor controller, and are willing to spend the money required, it doesn't make sense. You'd be far better off spending the money on speakers or acoustic treatment (or not spending it at all  ).
Best regards,
B.J. Buchalter
Metric Halo
[Updated on: Mon, 07 December 2015 06:44] Report message to a moderator |
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