Maybe it depends on your DAC and the other amp? I have a Topping D50 DAC daisy-chained through the LCX to the THX789, and the LCX needs to be powered on to avoid distortion when listening to the D50+789. I will hear the music out of the 789 when the LCX is off, but there is a lot of distortion...

The plugs are both stereo (and 3.5mm), so it doesn't matter which sides you plug them into. Left is left and right is right, even if you swap the plugs. I confirmed this experimentally. -Max

I would like to participate in the loaner program. I agree to the terms and conditions.   Thanks! -Max