How do I listen to CD, SACD and DVD-Audio music?
Connect the components as shown in the diagram using stereo
RCA cables
to interconnect the player to the preamplifier and the preamplifier to
the power amplifier. Physically arrange the components in your choice
of rack or stand [see Note 1], and then buy (or use cables you already
have) that are not overly long. That is, its neater to use a 3 foot
cable when a 3 foot cable is long enough.
Then connect the power amplifier output connectors to the loudspeakers
using speaker cables. I agree with others in
the industry who believe speaker cables should be at least eight feet
long for best sound quality. Technically, this does not make good sense
but I agree that it sounds better.
With a CD player as the music source, your preamp is just a volume
control. Plug the cables from the CD player into the "CD", "AUX" or
"LINE IN" connectors on the preamp and set the selection switch to the same
name as the connectors you used. If none of these names are on
your preamp, look in the User Guide or Owner's Manual to find which
input connectors to use for a CD player.
Loudspeaker placement is field of study in itself. Sometimes the room
simply dictates where you will have to place the 'speakers but it's
better if you can experiment with placement for best sound quality.
There is a lot of information on the web and I'm listing some sites
that may be useful. Also, if you are technically inclined, CaraCAD
is an example of some inexpensive computer software that can help with
room analysis for best 'speaker placement.
www.acousticinnovations.com
www.asc-home-theater.com
www.acousticalsolutions.com
www.auralex.com
www.echobusters.com
www.pmiltd.com
www.rpginc.com
www.soundwalls.net
For information on CaraCAD go to
www.cara.de. You can buy it in the US from
www.audioXpress.com .
Note 1: Audio Advisor, Inc. has a large variety of audio component racks
and stands. You can call 800-942-0220 to request a copy of their printed
catalog or you can visit them online at
www.audioadvisor.com . Stands
that are all-metal should be avoided because they tend to vibrate which adds
unpleasant sounds to your music! Wood or wood-composition shelves with
wood or metal supports work fine.
