How Do Balanced DACs work.

[Newtothis142]

I see a Schiit Jotunheim with a balanced DAC module, but I don't know how the module works. Does it work for the normal headphone jack. I.E Would it affect the sound going into my Hifiman HE-400i's? Should I pick the Jotunheim with the DAC module for $400 over a Topping D30 and A30 for $190?

 

[theveterans]

A Jotunheim with a DAC module means the amp has a DAC included so you can just insert a USB source instead of separates like the Topping D30 and A30. If you opt for Jotunheim without the DAC, you would still need an analog line in source to Jotunheim. It can be from a separate DAC or your smartphone.

 

[yong_shun]

Balanced DAC meaning there will be a separation when it is doing the decoding. There will be a DAC for left channel and the other DAC doing the decode for right channel. The interference pattern of this working mechanism can produce a destructive interference that minimise the noise created and hence giving a better SNR.

 

[ProtegeManiac]

I see a Schiit Jotunheim with a balanced DAC module, but I don't know how the module works. Does it work for the normal headphone jack. I.E Would it affect the sound going into my Hifiman HE-400i's? Should I pick the Jotunheim with the DAC module for $400 over a Topping D30 and A30 for $190?

If you mean the single ended, 6.3mm TRS headphone output jack, yes. It just doesn't work in balanced drive amplifier mode.