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Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus Stereo DAC/headphone amp/preamp (Silver)

Item # 779DACMPLS

Cambridge Audio set the benchmark for sound quality and value when they introduced the original DacMagic...

Cambridge Audio set the benchmark for sound quality and value when they introduced the original DacMagic...

20 questions - 59 answers

Item # 779DACMPLS

Shop all Cambridge Audio DACs

About the Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus

Dave Bar

Add more magic to your music

Cambridge Audio set the benchmark for sound quality and value when they introduced the original DacMagic digital-to-analog converter. It helped music lovers significantly upgrade the sound from their computers, game consoles, network music players, or any other device with a digital audio output. Now Cambridge has raised the bar even higher with their latest offering, the DacMagic Plus. This impressive new DAC offers more features and flexibility than its predecessor, including a dedicated headphone amp for private listening, upgraded USB input capability, and optional Bluetooth® wireless connectivity.

Add more magic to your music

front_view

Cambridge Audio set the benchmark for sound quality and value when they introduced the original DacMagic digital-to-analog converter. It helped music lovers significantly upgrade the sound from their computers, game consoles, network music players, or any other device with a digital audio output. Now Cambridge has raised the bar even higher with their latest offering, the DacMagic Plus. This impressive new DAC offers more features and flexibility than its predecessor, including a dedicated headphone amp for private listening, upgraded USB input capability, and optional Bluetooth® wireless connectivity.

Connect the DacMagic Plus between your music source's digital audio output and your receiver, amp, or powered speakers, and this versatile DAC will bypass the one inside your PC or player — magically transforming those cold hard zeroes and ones into warm, organic sound. You'll immediately experience greater dynamic impact and transparency, with instruments and vocals standing out from each other to occupy their own distinct space.

More magic on the inside than ever

The DacMagic Plus comes packed with advanced circuitry designed to extract the best possible sound from all your digital sources. Twin Wolfson DACs are used in a dual differential configuration to cancel out noise and distortion while providing excellent stereo imaging. Cambridge's sophisticated Adapted Time Filter 2 technology upsamples all incoming digital audio to a 24-bit/384kHz signal in order to resolve extremely fine detail. The end result is dramatically improved sound from every digital source in your system.

Now with the asynchronous USB advantage

Standard USB outputs from most computers pose a serious limitation to sound quality. That's because while you're trying to listen to music, your PC is busy performing virus scans, data backup, and other background tasks that may take priority over your tunes, causing it to alter the data rate to suit its own needs. Unfortunately, this situation results in timing errors within the digital data stream — known as "jitter" — that adversely affect sound quality. Jitter can make your music sound harsh and edgy, and smear subtle details.

The newly re-designed DacMagic Plus solves this problem by reaching out to your computer through the USB interface, and instructing it to relinquish control of the data stream timing. In its place, this advanced DAC inserts its own separate, or asynchronous, clock to precisely control the timing of the data rate, reducing jitter to the vanishing point. You'll hear a stunning improvement in low-level ambient detail along with a wider, deeper soundstage.


High-res audio

Enjoy high-resolution USB audio

Along with all the sonic benefits the DacMagic Plus provides for your compressed and CD-quality music files, it also has another trick up its sleeve — it decodes high-resolution data streams with up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution through its USB connection, so you can enjoy better-than-CD audio quality. (Free USB driver download required for Windows® PCs.) If you download high-res music files from HDtracks and other audiophile sources, this DAC will ensure that you hear them in all their glory.

Other audiophile features

Cambridge Audio also included some neat features guaranteed to appeal to audiophiles. A choice of three digital filters lets you tweak and fine-tune the sound to match your system and room. The DacMagic Plus lets you experiment with different filter settings for each source, always remembering the last setting assigned to each one. A phase inversion switch lets you correct for out-of-phase recordings or amplifiers that invert phase. Cambridge even included an incoming sample rate indicator which shows the original source quality.


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The DacMagic Plus offers multiple digital inputs for all of your sound sources plus RCA and pro-quality XLR outputs.

Plenty of connections for your gear

DacMagic Plus lets you connect multiple digital source components to your home audio or desktop system:

  • two coaxial digital inputs: ideal for connecting a CD or DVD player, Logitech Squeezebox™ Touch, Sonos® Connect, or any other digital audio component with coax out, and taking advantage of the DacMagic Plus's high-performance processor for better sound.
  • two optical digital inputs: ready to take on almost any HDTV, set-top box, game console, or other digital sources with optical digital output, and feed a high-quality audio signal into your stereo system.
  • Type B USB jack feeds digital audio from your computer into the DacMagic Plus's onboard digital-to-analog converter, bypassing your computer's sound card to yield much clearer sound with stored music files and Internet radio.

A pair of gold-plated RCA outputs lets you connect the DacMagic Plus to your home audio system's receiver or integrated amp. Or feed a set of powered speakers for a high-end, compact desktop stereo. The built-in volume control even lets you connect a power amp directly, using the DacMagic Plus as a preamp. Cambridge Audio also included a pair of balanced XLR outputs for an even higher-quality hookup with compatible audio components. A full-size headphone jack lets you take advantage of the DAC's built-in headphone amp for private listening. Optical and coaxial digital outputs allow you to bypass the DacMagic Plus when you're playing surround sound from a Blu-ray or DVD player, so you don't have to change cable connections when you switch from music to movies.

BT100 Bluetooth adapter

Use the BT100 Bluetooth audio adapter for wireless digital transmission to the DacMagicPlus.

High-quality sound with wireless convenience

You can also go cable-free with Cambridge Audio's optional plug-and-play BT100 Bluetooth® wireless audio receiver. This receiver lets you stream music wirelessly from your iPhone®, Android™ smartphone, iPad®, tablet, laptop or any device that supports Bluetooth audio. Best of all, if your smartphone, tablet, or computer supports high-end CSR aptX® Bluetooth audio, you can stream near CD-quality music from your device to the DacMagic Plus.

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Product highlights:

  • twin Wolfson Microelectronics 8740 24-bit digital-to-analog converters in dual differential mode for precise stereo imaging
  • asynchronous USB technology for reduced timing jitter and better sound on USB input
  • Anagram Technologies Adapted Time Filtering 2 (ATF2) 24-bit/384kHz audio up-sampling with jitter reduction for better sound with compressed audio sources
  • incoming sampling rate indicator helps verify source quality
  • choice of three filter settings for fine-tuning sound to suit your listening preferences
  • phase-inversion switch to compensate for out-of-phase recordings or phase-inverting amplifiers
  • built-in headphone amplifier and full-size (1/4") front-panel headphone jack
  • Bluetooth ready for wireless playback from any compatible Bluetooth device (requires optional Cambridge Audio BT100 wireless audio receiver)
  • supports the high-quality Bluetooth aptX CODEC for streaming audiophile quality music from a compatible Bluetooth device
  • two digital inputs with both optical (Toslink) and RCA coaxial (S/PDIF) jacks
  • USB (Type B) input for connection to a computer
  • optical and coaxial digital outputs (pass-through)
  • RCA and balanced XLR audio outputs (both active simultaneously)
  • supported sample rates:
    • USB: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, and 96kHz (24-bit/192kHz supported with downloaded USB driver and ASIO or kernel streaming modes)
    • optical: 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, and 192kHz
    • coaxial: 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, and 192kHz
  • built-in driver for USB 1.0 connection (up to 24-bit/96kHZ)
  • dedicated Cambridge Audio USB 2.0 driver for 24-bit/192kHz playback on a Windows® PC (free USB driver download available from Cambridge Audio website)
  • Mac OSX 10.5 or later supports 24-bit/192kHz USB output natively, so no dedicated driver is required
  • frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.1 dB)
  • THD: <0.002%
  • signal-to-noise ratio: 112 dB
  • external power supply included
  • non-slip silicone stand and 4 self-adhesive rubber feet included
  • 8-1/2"W x 2-1/16"H x 9-5/16"D (horizontal orientation)
  • weight: 2.6 lbs. (without power supply)
  • If connecting to a TV, please make sure you can select "PCM" output in its audio menu. This DAC cannot decode multi-channel Dolby® Digital signals.
  • warranty: 2 years
  • MFR # C10425K

What's in the box:

  • External digital-to-analog converter
  • AC power adapter (with attached 4' DC cord)
  • 3 AC power plugs (US/EU/UK)
  • 28" USB (type-B) to USB (type-A) cable
  • 4 Self-adhesive rubber-feet (for horizontal orientation)
  • Rubber base (for vertical orientation)
  • User's Manual (Eng/Fre/Spa/Ita)

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More details on the Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus

Mark G.

Features & specs

Design
Type ---
Built-in Rechargable Battery ---
Built-in Headphone Amplifier
Output Power ---
Output Impedance (Unbalanced) ---
Output Impedance (Balanced) ---
Audio Specs
Bit Depth (USB) 24
Max Sampling Rate (USB) 192 kHz
Bit Depth (S/PDIF) 24
Max Sampling Rate S/PDIF 192 kHz
S/N Ratio (Unbalanced, in dB) ---
S/N Ratio (Balanced, in dB) 112
THD (Unbalanced) ---
THD (Balanced) .002%
Supported File Types
PCM ---
DSD ---
DXD ---
MQA ---
Inputs
Total Inputs 3
USB Type B
Optical Digital 2
Coaxial Digital 2
3.5mm Digital None
Stereo RCA Analog None
Stereo 3.5mm Analog None
Stereo XLR Analog ---
Headphone Outputs
3.5mm Unbalanced ---
1/4-inch Unbalanced ---
4.4mm Balanced ---
XLR4 Balanced ---
Other Headphone Outs ---
Line Level & Digital Outs
RCA Line Out 1
3.5mm Line Out None
XLR Line Out ---
Subwoofer Out None
Optical Digital Out 1
Coaxial Digital Out 1
Wireless Connectivity
Bluetooth ---
Wi-Fi ---
Apple-compatible ---
Android-compatible ---
General Info
Width (inches) 8-1/2
Height (inches) 2-1/16
Depth (inches) 9-5/16
Weight 2.6 lbs.
Parts Warranty 2 Years
Labor Warranty 2 Years

Product Research

Features
Controls
Connections
Specifications
Dimensions

Features

Overview: The Cambridge Audio Azur DacMagic Plus is a high-quality up-sampling digital-to-analog converter. The DacMagic Plus features a range of components to enhance your music listening experience - these include a 32-bit Analog Devices Digital Signal Processor (DSP), dual Differential Virtual Earth balanced filter topology, and twin Wolfson WM8740 high quality DACs in dual differential mode for excellent stereo imaging. Other features include a choice of digital filters (linear phase/minimum phase/steep filter) and an incoming sampling rate indicator which shows the original source quality. The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus can effectively upgrade the audio from your computer, your network music devices, game consoles, or standard CD/DVD player to truly high-end, audiophile-quality sound.

Dual Wolfson DACs: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus employs two very high-quality Wolfson WM8740 24-bit DAC ICs in dual-differential mode for excellent stereo imaging. Since each channel has its own DAC to process information, completely separate and symmetrical analog filter circuitry can be implemented. This implementation allows both the left- and right-channel circuitry to operate identically, ensuring the DacMagic Plus delivers fantastic sound-staging and stereo-imaging properties.

Dual Differential Virtual Earth Balanced Filter Topology: The DacMagic Plus uses Cambridge Audio's proprietary Dual Differential Virtual Earth Balanced filter topology, configured as a low-order two-pole liner-phase Bessel filter, in order to take advantage of the achieved high-sampling rate. As a result your music will have extreme linearity with greater dynamic range.

32-bit DSP (Digital Signal Processor): A 32-bit Analog Devices ADSP2161 Digital Signal Processor (DSP) eradicates jitter, a problem which blurs the timing information of reproduced audio signals resulting in degraded audio quality. The DacMagic Plus intrinsically re-clocks all the audio data - removing jitter, noise, and distortion in the process, so your music sounds full and realistic. This is especially effective when listening to music stored on your computer or media player.

ATF2 (Adaptive Time Filtering): The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus utilizes an asynchronous up-sampling process called "Adaptive Time Filtering 2nd Generation" that intelligently interpolates (converts) incoming audio data from 16-24 bits (at any standard sampling frequency between 32-96kHz) to 24-bit/384kHz for dramatically improved musical reproduction. ATF2 will enhance the audio clarity, richness, and dynamic range of your compressed music.

Aluminum Front-Panel: The DacMagic Plus employs a substantial aluminum front-panel, plus an ultra-rigid, acoustically dampened chassis to prevent audio distortion caused by vibration.

Horizontal or Vertical Placement: The DacMagic Plus can be placed in two different positions (horizontal or vertical). It can be placed horizontally by fitting the four small self-adhesive rubber feet to the bottom of the unit, or vertically by using the large rubber base.

Controls

Phase Filter Select: The DacMagic Plus's 32-bit DSP employs Cambridge Audio's own proprietary digital filter algorithms with three different filter options available - Linear Phase, Minimum Phase, and Steep. Controlled from one switch on the front-panel, they are extremely clever audiophile topologies specifically developed for audio playback and all offer excellent sound quality, but differ slightly to appeal to a wide range of listening tastes.

  • Linear Phase Filter: The Linear Phase Filter is the same as used in Cambridge Audio's flagship Azur 840C upsampling CD player. It uniquely features 'constant group delay' which delays all audio signals at all frequencies by the same amount - meaning all audio is fully time-coherent at the output.
  • Minimum Phase Filter: The Minimum Phase Filter does not feature constant group delay, but rather has been optimized without feed-forward so that the impulse response exhibits no pre-ringing in the time domain. Many audiophiles have argued that the pre-ringing, as seen in nearly all digital filter designs, may affect the transient attack of percussive instruments. Minimum phase implementation eliminates this and is a technology only seen previously in some extremely high-end CD playback systems
  • Steep Filter: The steep filter removes undistinguishable artifacts via re-calibration for a very slight roll-off at 20kHz, but an ultra-steep drop to the stop-band just after 20kHz.

Note: These three filters are all of the highest quality, but offer subtle differences for the user to enjoy. The type of filter chosen is remembered for each input individually, so that it is possible to use one for PC playback (via USB) and another for CD playback (via SPDIF).

Digital Preamp Mode: The Digital Preamp Mode is used to connect the DacMagic directly to a separate power amplifier or active speakers. The DacMagic Plus is supplied as default with Digital Preamp mode enabled. In this mode, the output from the Unbalanced and Balanced audio outputs is controlled by the front panel Volume control.  If you wish to disable this mode (and have fixed line-level level output from the Unbalanced and Balanced Audio outputs) switch the DacMagic Plus off, then push and hold the Volume control in while switching the DacMagic Plus on.

Ground/Lift Switch: When Grounded, the DacMagic Plus is connected to the earth connection of the PC directly. When Lifted the ground connection is made via a network designed to break any hum loops that may be caused by the source equipment. The Grounded setting is recommended, unless audible hum is experienced

Connections

USB Port: A rear-panel 24-bit/192kHz USB (type-B) port enables the DacMagic Plus to be connected to your Windows PC or Mac computer. The DacMagic Plus will act as a very high-quality DAC/sound-card with very low jitter for your computer, offering genuine Hi-Fi-quality playback from your stored music and Internet radio. The DacMagic Plus is both USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) and USB 1.1 (Full-speed) USB port compatible. It will also work with the new USB 3.0 ports where the PC will simply treat the DacMagic Plus as if it were a USB 2.0 or 1.1 device.

  • PC Compatible: With the DacMagic Plus switched to USB Audio 1.0 (this is the default setting), the DacMagic Plus will work with the native Windows XP, Vista or 7 Audio 1.0 driver (no need to load any new driver) and accept audio up to 24-bit/96kHz. With the DacMagic Plus switched to USB Audio 2.0, the DacMagic Plus needs the Cambridge Audio USB Audio 2.0 Driver to be loaded and can then accept up to 24-bit/192kHz (and support ASIO and WASAPI Exclusive if required).
  • Mac Compatible: No extra drivers are required to connect your Mac computer. With the DacMagic Plus switched to USB Audio 1.1,  the DacMagic Plus will work with the native Mac OS-X 10.5 (Leopard) or above Audio 1.0 driver and accept audio up to 24/96kHz. With the DacMagic Plus switched to USB Audio 2.0 the DacMagic Plus works with the native Mac OS-X 10.5 (Leopard) or above Audio 2.0 driver and can accept audio up to 24/192kHz.

Digital Inputs: The DacMagic Plus is fitted with two rear-panel 24-bit digital inputs. Each digital input consists of an optical and coaxial digital connection. The optical and coaxial digital input allow a wide range of digital source (CD, DVD, Game Console, etc.) to be connected to the DacMagic Plus.

Note: Only one of the two types (optical/coaxial) of each digital input should be connected at any one time. If both the optical and coaxial inputs have connections made to them, neither will work. This unit only decodes two-channel LPCM digital audio (Dolby Digital 2.0). If you connect a DVD or similar device, please ensure that the audio output of the player is set to two-channel PCM.

Digital Output: A rear-panel digital output (optical/coaxial) allows pass-through of the selected digital source for recording purposes (no up-sampling performed). These outputs loop or pass-through unprocessed digital audio from the selected digital input.

Note: Both the optical and coaxial digital outputs are always active and can be used to connect and run equipment at the same time. A 5.1 Dolby Digital or DTS signal can be passed through the unit's digital outputs. The 5.1ch signal is not decoded or processed (only pass-through).

Balanced & Unbalanced Outputs: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus features both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) audio outputs to connect to a wide variety of home stereo receivers and amplifiers.

  • Unbalanced: The DacMagic Plus features an unbalanced stereo analog RCA audio output for connecting your stereo receiver or amplifier.
  • Balanced: The DacMagic Plus features true balanced XLR analog audio outputs to connect high-end home receivers and amplifiers. XLR is a higher-quality output that can reject noise and interference with equipment with balanced inputs.

Note: It is possible to use the unbalanced stereo RCA output and the balanced XLR outputs at the same time for connecting two different amplifiers or multi-room operation. The analog audio outputs are muted, if the DacMagic Plus receives a 5.1 Dolby Digital or DTS signal.

Headphone Output: The DacMagic Plus' front-panel headphone output (1/4") allows for personal listening from your set of high quality headphones. When headphones are connected, the headphone volume can be adjusted using the volume knob.  This is always independent of the level of the balanced or unbalanced audio outputs.

Bluetooth Ready: Simply plug in the optional Cambridge Audio BT100 Bluetooth Audio Receiver (779BT100, sold separately) into the DacMagic Plus' rear-panel USB (type-A) port for wireless music streaming from many of today's most popular Bluetooth supporting devices; such as iPod touch, iPhone, iPad, Android smartphone, Android tablet, and Mac or Windows PC.  The BT100 even supports the high-quality Bluetooth aptX CODEC, so you can stream audiophile quality music from your Bluetooth-enabled source device to the DacMagic Plus.

Note: Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the DacMagic Plus.

Power Requirements: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus operates off of standard household AC current, using the supplied AC power adapter. The external power adapter is separate from the digital-analog-converter to further improve sound quality.

  • Input: 100-240V~50/60Hz, 0.55A
  • Output: 12V - 2A

Note: The supplied AC power adapter includes AC power plug inserts for North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom.

Specifications

D/A Converters: Dual Wolfson WM8740 24-bit DACs

Digital Filter: Analog Devices ADSP21261 32-bit DSP (up-sampling to 24-bit/384kHz)

Analog Filter: 2-Pole Dual Differential Bessel Double Virtual Earth Balanced

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (+/- 0.1 dB)

Total Harmonic Distortion:

  • @ 1 kHz (0 dbBFs): < 0.001%
  • @ 1 kHz (-10 dBFs): < 0.001%
  • @ 20 kHz (0 dBFs): < 0.002%

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: -112 dBr

Total Correlated Jitter: < 130 pS

Crosstalk:

  • @ 1 kHz: < -130 dB
  • @ 20 kHz: < -112 dB

Output Impedance: < 50 ohms

Output Level:

  • Unbalanced: 2.1V rms
  • Balanced: 4.2V rms (2.1V per phase)

Digital Input Bit-Rates: 16- to 24-bit

Digital Input Sampling Frequencies: 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz

Audio Output Up-Sampling: Fixed 24-bit/384kHz

Headphone Output:

  • Frequency Response: 10Hz to 100kHz
  • THD:
    • @1kHz: 0dBFS 24-bit signal with 22kHz low pass filter = 0.001%
    • @ 20khz: 0dBFS 24-bit signal with 80kHz low pass filter = 0.003%
  • S/N: -111 dBrA
  • Recommended Headphones: impedance between 32 to 600 ohm

Power Consumption: 12 watt

Dimensions

Horizontal Orientation:

  • Width = 8.5"
  • Height = 2.0625" (2.1875" with feet)
  • Depth = 9.3125

Vertical Orientation: (with stand)

  • Width = 3.125"
  • Height = 9.125"
  • Depth = 9.375"

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Customer Q&A

20 questions already asked

Q
Can I connect the Cambridge to my receiver and play my music though my koi-school speakers?
bigmike526  Nov 19, 2020
2 answers
A
yes
francisco ruiz  Nov 19, 2020
A
Yes - purchased primarily to run tv audio through 2-channel system/ marantz pm 8004. Dac also has Bluetooth option - to play music via phone. Usb connection as well. Super happy with product & purchase.
karen  Nov 19, 2020
Q
Can i connect a subwoofer to this preamp?
jon15  Sep 09, 2020
3 answers
A
If it were self powered, i don't see why not. I have mine connected into my entire system ,via my marantz receiver, so my Subwoofer gets the same upgrade the rest of my system receives from the DAC.My Marantz allows for satalite amps to be plumbed in. But if your using the DAC as as your stand alone preamp, it is worth a try, so long as the subwoofer is powered.
rick  Sep 12, 2020
A
Something might happen if you are using active/powered speakers. I don't think the results would be satisfactory, but I don't know what your trying to accomplish.
truman e  Sep 10, 2020
A
No you can't
francisco ruiz  Sep 10, 2020
Q
Active speakers ð??? or passive speakers?
thomas  May 26, 2020
3 answers
A
I love mine! I have 4 pair speakers + 2 subs powered by 2 amps. The subs and 1 pair of speakers are active. I use DAC as head/preamp control. Still happy with purchase. Buy with confidence!
norman  May 26, 2020
A
??????
truman e  May 26, 2020
A
I do not know what the question means.?? But I love the unit and the transport I got with it. I love my Magnapans, and this produces clarity and highs beyond my previous units.
gregory  May 26, 2020
Q
Will I be able to connect my IPOD Touch 6th edition to the DAC?
robert  May 21, 2020
4 answers
A
yes
stephen p  May 21, 2020
A
Yes, via Bluetooth with the optional Bluetooth accessory
alan  May 21, 2020
A
I see where your iPod (2015) uses a lightening connector and is WiFi capable. I used a usb-b to lightening cable with my iPhone, probably the iPhone 7. I don't recall needing the camera adapter, but if you need it, it's $41. If you buy the WiFi add on, you could stream wirelessly to the Magicdac. And the best part, if my memory is wrong, with Crutchfield you can return it.
gary  May 21, 2020
A
Yes
larry  May 21, 2020
Q
headphone power output 32,50,300,600 ohm?
new user  Apr 11, 2020
2 answers
A
Don't know about headphones. I put my sound out to a pair of Kilch speakers. The sound from the DacMagic Plus is amazing!
john r  Apr 21, 2020
A
Tech Specs state: RECOMMEND HEADPHONE IMPEDANCE 32 Ohm to 600 Ohm
matt  Apr 20, 2020
Q
I would like to use the dac magic plus with Adams ax5 to listen to music using the Bluetooth accessories my question is can I connect a usb photograph to it like a Sony hx500?
mattk  Apr 05, 2020
1 answer
A
If it is a usb output on the phonograph it should work. The input is b type usb connector on the back of the dac. You will need an adapter that is usb type a female to a male usb connector. I use one to connect my android mini usb to the usb b type on the dac. I've had mine for over a year and I love it! It has brought new life to my 24 year old Marantz CD player and my Android phone!
richard  Apr 05, 2020
Q
Can I connect my iPod Classic to this via USB? I see it has the USB type B port but is there a way to connect the multi-pin iPod to USB cable?
mark stephen  Sep 01, 2019
2 answers
A
Absolutely. You will need a USB B, square type to multi pin apple. If you can't find cable, you can adapt multi pin to lightning with Apple kit :>)
david  Sep 02, 2019
A
I think so, but not sure. Sorry
michael  Sep 01, 2019
Q
Hi, I'd like to use this to input a digital signal (from a computer or phone), and output a signal to a Marantz PM8004 Integrated Amplifier, connected to Vandersteen 3A speakers. It can clearly handle the digital input. My concern is in its output when used as a pre-amp - will it be compatible with the Marantz integrated amp? Thanks for your help.
kavita  Jan 19, 2019
6 answers
A
I have a mac Book that I use as a music player. I run the signal through my DacMagic plus and on out to my integrated amp, which is a Yamaha and it works great. I can also send the signal from my universal disc player through the MagicDac. So far, I have been very happy with it.
thomas r  Jan 27, 2019
A
Correct, turn off the unit. You press the ON and the VOLUME switch in at the same time and you will have line level output you can connect to the amps input. The Marantz will treat it like any other input and volume will be controlled by the Marantz and/or the digital source, not the Dacmagic..
peter  Jan 22, 2019
A
I am not really sure, The DAC has a variety of outputs. I am simply running mine through the Computer USB port. Sorry and cannot be of more assistance. I will say the DAC is fantastic and well worth the money. tom
tom  Jan 21, 2019
A
Yes. You can either use the rotary dial on front to adjust the volume or turn the rotary dial off and use your Marantz as the volume control. I use mine professionally, outputting from an imac., and inputting into a Midas board and have never had a problem. I also own the smaller Cambridge 100 and love both of them. The Dac Magic Plus upsamples which is a plus. Both sound incredible and on a great system it is the difference between real stereo and mono, almost. You will really notice the stereo separation and each separate instrument.
david  Jan 21, 2019
A
Sort of how I use mine. I output the signal from an Apple Airport Express which has an audio output to DACMagic and then to my NAD preamp. Sounds good.
winsor  Jan 21, 2019
A
I've got it set up through a Marantz PM-68 integrated amp. I'm not sure why you think this might be a problem. Getting a phone to output to this device properly is a bigger challenge.
harrison  Jan 19, 2019
Q
How does this (or any) DAC improve the sound of my FLAC files as they leave the device and travel over RCA cables to my receiver's analog inputs? Also How do SACD's benefit from being run thru this device prior to being delivered to my receiver via RCA cables? Thanks
jessica  Apr 13, 2018
1 answer
A
Any digital signal that is run through this device is upsampled. The sound quality of this device is exceptional. If you really want to test just how good this device is, I urge you to use a mp3 or wav file from a computer. Use the mini plug on your computer and run it by cable to your receiver. Then, after listening to that, run the same file through this DAC using usb. Notice the extreme difference in sound quality, stereo imaging, etc.
david  Apr 17, 2018
Q
Will the bit rate lights on the front panel illuminate on the optical and coaxial inputs or only over USB?
jessica  Apr 12, 2018
3 answers
A
I am using the optical Inputs and the lights illuminate just fine. If you opt for this unit your ears will pleased.
warren  Apr 12, 2018
A
Not quite sure about this, but I think it is always working and giving the information
pedro  Apr 12, 2018
A
Yes on the optical/coaxial inputs. However, it will not downmix 5.1 to stereo from a set-top-box (which is indicative of DAC's) FYI, nice little package, works nicely as a preamp, in many other applications.
douglas  Apr 12, 2018
Q
Confused about the two digital/optical inputs. The manual makes it seem like you can't have them both plugged in at the same time. If that's true then what is the point of being able to switch the source from input 1 to input 2? Would like to connect my airport express to optical 1 and my tv to optical 2. Can this not be done?
mark  Feb 11, 2018
3 answers
A
You can use the two optical inputs as you have outlined. On the front panel you can select Digital 1 and Digital 2 to identify your source. For Digital 1, you have the option of either a coaxial or optical connection and the same for Digital 2. So in your setup, the airport express would be connected to the optical input under Digital 1 and the tv connected to the optical input under Digital 2.
christopher  Feb 12, 2018
A
Both can be plugged in. I have one connected to a DVD player and one connected to a CD player. This unit is a jewel. Really improves compressed music sound quality.
warren  Feb 11, 2018
A
I haven't actually tried this but the description on page 15 of the DacMagic Plus owners manual indicates that only one of the two inputs (USB and optical) for each of the two channels can be used at a time, otherwise both inputs are disabled. I believe that the unit will operate as you wish if a USB input is connected to one channel and an optical input is connected to the other channel.
david  Feb 11, 2018
Q
How easy is this to connect to my MacBook Pro?
stephen  Dec 08, 2017
3 answers
A
it was easy. it has greatly enhanced my hearing of dialogue on my laptop, tv and my Klipsch mini system. i have hearing aides and i use Sennheiser ear phones out of the Cambridg DAC. it makes for a win-win for me.
james m  Dec 09, 2017
A
Very easy!! I am successful using a standard printer usb cable as well as a Toslink to Mini Toslink Digital Optical cable (in MB Pro's headphone jack). The MB automatically recognizes the DacMagic Plus so I don't have to go to Audio MIDI settings.
michael  Dec 09, 2017
A
A piece of cake. Just a USB cable and you're all set.
david  Dec 08, 2017
Q
How many ohms can the headphone amp power?
rodney  Jul 24, 2017
4 answers
A
I do not know the impedance range of phones the amp will power, but it runs my Sennheiser HD280 Pros well which are 64 ohms. Hope this helps.
david  Jul 25, 2017
A
The user manual indicates that headphones with an impedance between 32 and 600 ohms are recommended.
david  Jul 25, 2017
A
Sorry I don't use the headphone feature..but I m really in love with the sound I get from this unit out of my speakers running the signal path thru this device has enhanced my system greatly whether watching concerts on YouTube via TV or my PC or using any other device like a CD player etc.
jeff  Jul 25, 2017
A
Allows for the connection of headphones with a 1/4" jack plug connector. Headphones with an impedance of between 32 and 600 ohms are recommended.
bill  Jul 25, 2017
Q
Can I connect an iOS device (iphone, ipad) via a lightning-to-USB adapter as an Input device?
anthony  Apr 12, 2017
4 answers
A
I first bought the BT 100 Bluetooth adapter. Yes , it does work well. And it's very convenient. However, seeing the MIDI USB input on the back, I thought it would be interesting to try. Received my MIDI USB to lightening cable today. Plugged in my iPhone X using high quality Apple Music and it works perfectly. And, in my opinion, the sound quality is significantly improved. To the point of...wow! In my opinion. Well worth the $20 for the experiment.
gary  Oct 10, 2018
A
No you can't plug in directly with the lightening/USB cable that comes with the device. I use the optional Bluetooth receiver (Cambridge Audio BT100) to connect all such devices and it works very well, plus its wireless.
david  Apr 15, 2017
A
Hi Anthony -- yes you can, but I recommend getting their Bluetooth receiver and plug that in. The connection in my house is flawless, and I use it to stream music from my iPhone and Mac. I've done comparison tests, and the sound quality is actually better than a connected PC. Enjoy!
sean  Apr 15, 2017
A
Hello Anthony, There is an included Bluetooth adapter that allows for Bluetooth connection. That's what I use with my IOS devices.
bill  Apr 15, 2017
Q
can I used a different Bluetooth adapter with the Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus?
colombia77  Oct 10, 2015
2 answers
A
I use the Cambridge Audio BT100 Bluetooth receiver plugged into the ext. port on the back and it works well for all Bluetooth enabled devices that I've tried so far.
david  Apr 15, 2017
A
Sorry.. I am not using Bluetooth.. I do like the Cambridge Product
wesley g  Oct 11, 2015
Q
Has anyone used this unit with 300 ohm Sennheiser headphones and if so how well will the Dac Magic Plus drive that load? The output is only 50 ohms but no idea if they are directly related
michael thomas  Dec 31, 2013
1 answer
A
You will want to contact an Advisor by phone or online chat to discuss compatibility with your current gear. They will be able to check the specs and see if this will integrate. If it does not, then they will also be able to discuss other options with you.
jeff  Dec 31, 2013 (Staff)
Q
Can I have iPhone input to the device and get the Digital output to another device?
mitch  Nov 22, 2020
2 answers
A
I don't know cause I don't own this devise anymore. However if you want to stream from your phone or computer via Bluetooth, You will need a dec that is Bluetooth capable. Good luck!
sonny  Nov 22, 2020
A
Short answer: I think so. Long answer: Cambridge Audio will tell you the unit will run off a computer USB only. I have been running mine for over a year on an iPad with a lighting camera adaptor to USB A and it works flawlessly. I have great sound using Tidal high quality streams. I use the unit as my preamp and only connect via analogue but there are two digital outputs on the back, Toslink and Coax.
scott  Nov 22, 2020
Q
Can this be used with the iPhone 11 Pro max?
wayne  Sep 17, 2020
5 answers
A
Yup
norman  Sep 18, 2020
A
Yes, just stream via the optional Bluetooth adapter BT100.
frank  Sep 17, 2020
A
I use it to boost and enhance the sound from my PC. It does have a USB so I suppose if you wanted to boost the signal coming out of the iphone it should probably work, but that's not how I'm using it.
john r  Sep 17, 2020
A
Any phone with bluetooth can stream through it, but you will need to buy https://www.crutchfield.com/p_779BT100/Cambridge-Audio-BT100.html. You can also get a digital signal to it via any phone, tablet or computer that can output to USB. You just have to have the right ends on the cables.
john  Sep 17, 2020
A
I don't know for sure, but I do not think so, cause it does not have blue tooth.
sonny  Sep 17, 2020
Q
Does Windows see this as a recording device? Can you record from one of the digital inputs to your PC?
john  Mar 24, 2019
3 answers
A
I have no idea, I'm using it as a preamp connection to my power amplifier for dac .
jerome  Mar 24, 2019
A
well, I don't use it in my computer, I use it free standing for dvd and mp3 files, wav, flac, high definition. I think that you can use it to record if you have other devices that record. The signal can pass through it. Other than that, I don' t use it for recording.
pedro  Mar 24, 2019
A
Sorry, John, I have mine hooked to a Denon HEOS and then into a vintage Sansui G-6700 receiver. I love the DAC in the DacMagic. Good luck.
joseph  Mar 24, 2019
Q
Does the volume knob affect the level of the rear outputs?
jason  Jul 26, 2017
5 answers
A
Yes it does. Just to let you know this is a great unit. It make's a very big difference. I use it with my Tidal music service and my CD player. I have the unit plugged into my McItosh C30 pre-amp. It made a very big improvement.
mary  Jul 28, 2017
A
Yes, it controls the RCA analog outputs. Results are amazing when paired with an NA-208a amp from Napa Acoustic. Vibrant crystal clear CDs, and a huge improvement with compressed music. It takes both the signal processing in this little gem and the vacuum tubes in the 208a to get the compressed music improvement.
warren  Jul 27, 2017
A
I don't think it does. If the volume can affect the rear digital outputs, then there whould not be a dap function, however, the one with unbalanced I think it should, but I have only used this excellent equipment for use as a DAP and no other than a headphone amplifier, in which the volume also works as a volume.
pedro  Jul 27, 2017
A
yes, I have to remember to turn the volumn knob up full blast to get volume
warren  Jul 26, 2017
A
Yes. I use the xlr outs with fixed volume on the computer and use the volume knob
jay  Jul 26, 2017
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