Dr. AIX (Mark Waldrep from AIX Records) recently published an excellent application note titled "My First Server" -a simple step-by-step guide for setting up a High-Resolution Audio (HRA) server. Dr. AIX chose a Mac Mini, a Benchmark DAC2 HGC, and the highly-acclaimed Amarra playback software.
The system components are:
The result is a true High-Resolution Audio system that can deliver the finest studio-quality playback available. The Benchmark DAC1 and DAC2 converters have become standard fixtures in many of the world's top recording studios and mastering rooms. They have become the converters of choice for critical listening in these professional environments.
"My First Server" describes the server that Mastering and Recording Engineer Mark Waldrep uses in his own living room. With his simple guide, you can enjoy mastering-quality High-Resolution Audio playback.
If an audio system is composed of multiple components, we may have detailed specifications for each component, but we will not know the performance of the combined system without doing some calculations. You may have questions such as these:
Use Benchmark's online audio calculators to find answers!
For example, if we know the output power of an amplifier, as well as the sensitivity and impedance of our loudspeakers, we can calculate the maximum sound pressure level that our system can produce.
This application note provides interactive examples that help to answer the questions listed above.
We have added an "Audio Calculators" section to our webpage. Click "Calculators" on the top menu to see more like these:
Secrets contributor Sumit Chawla recently caught up with Benchmark’s VP and Chief Designer, John Siau to get a little more in-depth on several subjects.
Q: "Benchmark is one of the few companies that publishes an extensive set of measurements, but you also balance that with subjective testing. Can you talk about the equipment, the listening room, and the process for subjective testing?"
Q: "Was there ever a time where you learned something from a subjective test that was not captured by measurements?"
Q: "You conducted some listening tests to determine whether distortion in the “First Watt” was audible. What test material did you use for this, and what did you find?"
Q: "The AHB2 amplifier incorporates THX Audio Achromatic Amplifier technology. When and how did the partnership with THX come about?"
Q: "Linear power supplies have been and remain quite popular in high-end devices. You favor switch-mode power supplies. When and why did you make this switch?"
... and more!