[spixder]

Hey guys, i've only started high end audio gearing not long ago, presently i am using onboard sound to amp via the 3.5mm connector, however i've been told that this isnt really a good set-up. Recently i purchased a Corda StageDAC, so the question is how do i connect the onboard to the external dac?
 
The onboard has the following audio properties:
 

• Realtek ALC889 codec
• High Definition Audio
• 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
• Support for Dolby Home Theater
• Support for S/PDIF In/Out
• Support for CD In

 
The connectors for the DAC are shown here http://pic8.audiogon.com/i/c/f/1279548181.gif
 
Thanks

 

[ChaosBlooderfly]

I think you get a USB cable between the DAC and laptop. The DAC is supposed to bypass your audiocard, and it takes digital signals through the USB and converts them into analog for the amp.

 

[spixder]

Would an optical spdif cable work too?

 

[HeatFan12]

To keep it simple, always remember- input --> output
 
That DAC appears to have 2 coax, 1 optical & 1 usb INPUTS.
 
I'm guessing this PC is a desktop?  If it is and your motherboard supports coax (spdif), optical and usb, then you have three different ways to connect.  If it is a laptop with optical out, then you have two different ways (optical & usb).  Or if you want to connect via usb...etc....
 
The OUTPUTS on the DAC (RCA, red & white) are used to connect to an amp etc.....The amps will have inputs (RCA, red & white).

 

[spixder]

Thanks for that Heat, really cleared things up for me.

 

[HeatFan12]

 

[HeatFan12]

You are most welcome...

 

[HeatFan12]

...Oops...TP...