penguindude
1000+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Mar 28, 2006
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There has been a lot of discussions on the EMU 0404USB lately, mainly focusing on its various features and excellent DAC function for the money. Indeed, the EMU 0404USB seems like a unbeatable all-in-one solution to all your listening/recording needs. However, it seems that most users have been connecting their 0404 through the mini-stereo output to their amps/receivers. There was very little info on the 1/4" TS connection. So, having fully enjoyed the mini-stereo output, I decided to check out the TS connection (unbalanced) and see if there is difference/improvement to the mini-stereo output.
Using two 1/4" Mono-to-RCA cable, I connected my EMU 0404USB to my amp. I was shocked at the sound coming out of my HD600. It was simply...incredible
Everything has MUCH more clear separation and vocal/instrument placement is EXTREMELY noticeable and precise. Doing a back-and-forth comparison with the mini-stereo to RCA output, the stereo output seems much more crowded into one sound; whereas the TS connection seems like everything is being untangled and spread onto the floor. In multi-vocal songs, I can now actually identify where the woman is "standing" and where the man's voice is coming from. While the collaboration of voices was still evident before, with the new connection, it is MUCH more obvious and much more accurate.
If I was to summarize my experience in one statement, I'd say that The EMU0404 USB brings 'transparency' to a new height.
Using two 1/4" Mono-to-RCA cable, I connected my EMU 0404USB to my amp. I was shocked at the sound coming out of my HD600. It was simply...incredible
Everything has MUCH more clear separation and vocal/instrument placement is EXTREMELY noticeable and precise. Doing a back-and-forth comparison with the mini-stereo to RCA output, the stereo output seems much more crowded into one sound; whereas the TS connection seems like everything is being untangled and spread onto the floor. In multi-vocal songs, I can now actually identify where the woman is "standing" and where the man's voice is coming from. While the collaboration of voices was still evident before, with the new connection, it is MUCH more obvious and much more accurate.
If I was to summarize my experience in one statement, I'd say that The EMU0404 USB brings 'transparency' to a new height.