E-MU 0404 usb function as preamp?

[bjou]

I want to build a 2.0 system. I have an E-MU 0404 usb.
I am looking to buy a set of bookshelf speakers and a proper stereo amplifier.
I know the monitors hook to the amplifier with regular jumpers, but then: can the amplifier hook directly to my 0404 stereo outputs?
The amplifier's input jacks are RCA, and the 0404's output jacks are 1/4". To use the 0404 as my stereo source, would all I have to do is get an 1/4" to RCA converter or cables?

 

[CSMR]

Best to use with an external volume control. (Otherwise you are using digital with potentially large attenuation.) So hook up to an integrated amp or preamp.

 

[infinitesymphony]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjou /img/forum/go_quote.gif I want to build a 2.0 system. I have an E-MU 0404 usb. I am looking to buy a set of bookshelf speakers and a proper stereo amplifier. I know the monitors hook to the amplifier with regular jumpers, but then: can the amplifier hook directly to my 0404 stereo outputs? The amplifier's input jacks are RCA, and the 0404's output jacks are 1/4". To use the 0404 as my stereo source, would all I have to do is get an 1/4" to RCA converter or cables?

Yes, you're correct on all counts. IMO, you should take advantage of the 0404 USB's balanced outputs and find a nice pair of studio monitors. They are often better than consumer-grade gear for the same price, and the balanced connection means that the signal quality will also improve.

 

[Pibborando]

Quote:

Originally Posted by infinitesymphony /img/forum/go_quote.gif and the balanced connection means that the signal quality will also improve.

Actually, technically, it means the quality won't degrade like it can with non-balanced connections.

 

[infinitesymphony]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pibborando /img/forum/go_quote.gif Actually, technically, it means the quality won't degrade like it can with non-balanced connections.

Yes, that's a better way of stating it.

 

[bjou]

Thanks you guys, I did more research and my final setup will be my 0404 to an integrated amp to monitors.

 

[infinitesymphony]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjou /img/forum/go_quote.gif Thanks you guys, I did more research and my final setup will be my 0404 to an integrated amp to monitors.

Cool. By monitors, you mean passive bookshelf speakers, right? Just checking.

 

[ssportclay]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjou /img/forum/go_quote.gif I want to build a 2.0 system. I have an E-MU 0404 usb. I am looking to buy a set of bookshelf speakers and a proper stereo amplifier. I know the monitors hook to the amplifier with regular jumpers, but then: can the amplifier hook directly to my 0404 stereo outputs? The amplifier's input jacks are RCA, and the 0404's output jacks are 1/4". To use the 0404 as my stereo source, would all I have to do is get an 1/4" to RCA converter or cables?

With an E-MU 0404/USB,you do not need a receiver.Shop for a pair of professional active monitors with 1/4" TRS balanced inputs and some balanced 1/4" TRS cables.The E-MU 0404/USB will then act as your receiver.Buying standard bookshelf speakers when you already own an E-MU 0404/USB is really kind of silly.

 

[bjou]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ssportclay /img/forum/go_quote.gif With an E-MU 0404/USB,you do not need a receiver.Shop for a pair of professional active monitors with 1/4" TRS balanced inputs and some balanced 1/4" TRS cables.The E-MU 0404/USB will then act as your receiver.Buying standard bookshelf speakers when you already own an E-MU 0404/USB is really kind of silly.

I am not going to buy a receiver, I am only going to buy an integrated amplifier and a pair of bookshelf loudspeakers. If Anything, I would rather replace the 0404 (It's used enough to justify separation) for a receiver or separate source than not get an amp+stereo system (but I think the 0404 should deliver a fine signal..). I also may connect my turntable to the amp, and would prefer a more upgradeable stereo system.

 

[ssportclay]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjou /img/forum/go_quote.gif I am not going to buy a receiver, I am only going to buy an integrated amplifier and a pair of bookshelf loudspeakers. If Anything, I would rather replace the 0404 (It's used enough to justify separation) for a receiver or separate source than not get an amp+stereo system (but I think the 0404 should deliver a fine signal..). I also may connect my turntable to the amp, and would prefer a more upgradeable stereo system.

The 0404/USB is a Pro sound card that is designed to be connected to Pro active monitors.This card will probably run with most $1000 cd players and the Event Electronics ALP5 monitors I am running balanced from them will run with most $400 bookshelf speakers.You can also connect a turntable to the 0404/USB with a Phono stage and download analog into your hard drive.You will also find many used active monitors on ebay which would make an initial investment a very low risk.