Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100

The majority of the time that I listen to music I use my iPhone 11 and iPad Air connected to my home stereo amplifier. I read somewhere that this Dacmagic 100 won't override the DAC in my iPhone or iPad. Is this true, or will this DAC work with these devices?

Since you currently have a turntable connected to your speakers, it would be necessary to use the AUX input (3.5mm jack) to connect this DAC. We would use a 3.5mm-to-RCA cable for the job. The DacMagic 100 is pretty fantastic and would likely offer improved sound over using the internal DAC in The Sixes.

[ ZACHARY Jan 20, 2023 ] Staff

[ Dan Apr 10, 2022 ]

Can this be used with double DIN modern car stereos?

If you send a digital signal to the dac from your device then it will work and it will convert it to analog wich you then input to your anlog in on your stereo it should work great. mine works and sounds great.

[ James Apr 12, 2022 ]

Are you connecting those two apple devices to your stereo via a 1/8" stereo mini cable? If so, you're using the Apple DAC. The Cambridge DAC will offer a better, clearer sound, but you need to feed it a digital data stream. . . . And, you'll have to figure out how to route the digital signal from your device(s) to the Cambridge DAC- and you can't just connect your iPhone directly to the Cambridge DAC. typically you'll need extra equipment, as the DAC Magic doesn't have the ability to connect via wireless streaming.

[ Phil Apr 11, 2022 ]

[ SERGIO Sep 12, 2021 ]

can I connect my subwoofer to the dac?

If you AC power going to it, I guess so.

[ Jason Sep 13, 2021 ]

[ Joaquin Jun 09, 2021 ]

I just bought the DAC Magic 100. It seems like no matter what I play, the incoming sampling rate says 48. I have downloaded the USB 2 driver and installed it. Any ideas what if anything I may be doing wrong? It's connected to my PC via a USB hub. I'm going to try bypassing the hub to see if that makes any difference.

Not directly. The DAC's output connects to your Receiver/Amp.

[ DAVID Jun 11, 2021 ]

I took a look at my device and see no port to connect to s subwoofer. The DAC merely takes digital music input, converts it to analog, and send the conversion to your amp/receiver. I use an amp. I would plug the subwoofer into my amp. I talked extensively with Crutchfield and my music store before making this purchase and it seems they gave me the correct advice. in addition, I purchased a Sonos Port to stream my music to. It works great and plug into the DAC. so the sequence is Sonos Port, to DAC, to amp. the Sonos Port has a fabulous interface if you are using Apple Music.

[ RAYMOND E Jun 09, 2021 ]

To my knowledge the DAC can only be connected to a music source such as a computer or CD player.

[ LANCE Jun 09, 2021 ]

[ RICHARD S Jun 07, 2021 ]

Is there any issue connecting the DAC Magic via a USB Hub, as opposed to straight into the computer?

There is a very good U-tube video with step by step instructions on how to change the Windows settings so the sampling rate will be higher.

[ MICHAEL Jun 07, 2021 ]

I think that you are on the right track by eliminating the USB hub. Also, you should use the shortest cable possible to get the highest data rate.

[ CHARLES Jun 07, 2021 ]

I'm not sure if the hub would interfere, but on the PC, I had to go to the control panel and then to the hardware and sound tab. When you click on the sound tab, you will see a list of audio devices which should include the DacMagic. You then click on the DacMagic to select it and then click on the properties tab below the list. When the properties window opens up select the advanced tab. There will be at the top a drop down box under default format where you can select the desired setting. After you select the setting, hit apply and it should work properly.

[ James Jun 07, 2021 ]

[ RICHARD S May 31, 2021 ]

I just purchased the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic 100, mainly to play the music that's stored on my computer. My question is - should I also connect my Sony CD/MD player (circa 2000) to the DAC Magic? Is it likely that this will improve the sound from my CD player?

I can't tell you for sure but I don't forsee any difference other than you might get some jitter from the longer connections

[ JOE May 31, 2021 ]

[ RICHARD S May 31, 2021 ]

Hi, I'm trying to stream TIDAL from my laptop (Mac or PC, i use both) and/or from a ROKU to my receiver via a DAC. Will the DACMagic 100 be ok, or do I need to go with the DACMagic 200M? thanks :)

If you look in your Setup portion of the owners manual you will see that they show that in addition to your computer, you can also attach your cd player by way of optical or digital connection. This would allow you to take advantage of the upgraded D to A converter inside the DacMagic. If you CD play was ultra high end then it's D to A converted might be even better.... but I doubt it. I found that the DacMagic really improved everything about the output from my computer and I happen to now own two of them. Larry Edson

[ Larry May 31, 2021 ]

[ Erin Apr 22, 2021 ]

Can a iPhones 8 be used with this dac ?

The Dac-100 should work fine. The big difference is the 200 has a volume control.

[ MATTHEW Apr 22, 2021 ]

If you want to stream anything from your computer, via bluetooth for example, you will need the 200. I bought the DACMagic 100 first and use it via usb with my laptop and toslink with an ancient cdplayer. Later I purchased an audio engine B1 which lets me stream anything via bluetooth. The Dac Magic 200 will combine both of those functions for you.

[ STEPHEN V Apr 22, 2021 ]

I think either will work just fire. I have both but don't use them anymore because they don't have Bluetooth. The more expensive one has better sound.

[ JEROME Apr 22, 2021 ]

Yes it will work.

[ ULYSESSS Apr 22, 2021 ]

[ Kenny Apr 01, 2021 ]

Does anyone use this with an iPhone? I would like to get a lighting to usb converter. From there I would use a usb-b to usb-a line so I can connect it right to the dac. I'm thinking this would work but I would love any feedback.

What outputs that you have from an Iphone? The DAC 100 has RCA plug line outputs made to drive a power amplifier. The DAC 100 has many input formats.

[ EDWARD Apr 03, 2021 ]

Yes, via USB input. You would need a USB-B to USB-A cable with a USB to lightning adapter such as Apple's camera connection dongle. This is how I play music from my iPhone 7.

[ William Apr 02, 2021 ]

[ CONNOR Nov 11, 2020 ]

Can I use this device to convert my Sony Bravia Smart TV's digital optical output signal to my analog home stereo input?

You might want to to look at and Audioengine B1. I use that to supplement my DAC 100.

[ STEPHEN V Apr 22, 2021 ]

[ John Sep 13, 2020 ]

Can I play audio from 2 sources at the same time? ie: USB input audio and Optical input audio. Thanks.

Yes! This is exactly what I did with my LG TV.

[ William Sep 14, 2020 ]

Yes that is why I bought one, I had the same issues.

[ JAN Sep 13, 2020 ]

Yes. This is also my TV application. I bought a second DAC 100 from Crutchfield to convert my stereo system digital music files to my analog Yamaha amplifier I bought from Crutchfield. The DAC 100 accepts optical and coaxial inputs.

[ MARK Sep 13, 2020 ]

[ jeffrey May 03, 2020 ]

9 answers

You can only play the selected input. But I can get audio for the video source from either. IE: The USB from the PC (which is playing the video) , or the Fiber from the TV which is the monitor for the DVI coming from the PC to the TV. Everything I do on the PC can get its audio out through the USB to the DAC, which I prefer to the processor on the TV, then to the DAC. I wish the DAC had more Optical inputs as I would hook the PS4 and a PS2 to the DAC as well.The PS2 has a very good CD transport

[ Robert May 05, 2020 ]

[ W Brian May 04, 2020 ]

Never tried playing 2 sources at once. I don't think it would work but I'm sure that someone with more experience with the dacmagic can answer that. good luck.

[ GARY May 04, 2020 ]

Don't believe you can.

[ RICHARD E May 04, 2020 ]

[ Bernardo May 04, 2020 ]

i returned it, went a different way.

[ Gilbert May 03, 2020 ]

To be honest,I only play one source at a time. Never would've thought about playing 2 separate sources at the same time.

[ KEVIN May 03, 2020 ]

I don't believe so. You press SOURCE to select between USB, SPDIF 1, SPDIF 2 & Toslink. The corresponding LED will light up to show which source. It appears that only one input is active at any time. has been selected.

[ Stephen May 03, 2020 ]

I don't believe so. I think only one source is active at a time.

[ Greg May 03, 2020 ]

Will this work with an iPod?

[ Jeffrey Jan 06, 2020 ]

WILL THIS WORK ON A LINUX DESKTOP?

This product is designed to take digital sound and translate it to listenable analog sound. It has two rca outs to hook directly into your sound amp or stereo. Your iPod also has one of these built in (not good quality) so that you can plug your headphones in and hear them. That said, if you really want good sound from your stereo from an Ipod device you can use this with and older I believe apple tv 3 gen that has toslink output and mirror your iPod to it. Your Ipod and apple tv need to be on the same wifi to do this and that is what I use this product to do. It will cost you about $60 for a used apple tv on ebay. The new ones do not have optical Toslink out so you need to get the older one. That all said this is not portable and a more useful device which I travel with and use all the time is the dragonfly. You will need the apple video download device $40 and a head phone to RCA converter. This will allow you to either listen via head phones while on the go or hook it up to your stereo for optimal playback. Also the apple video down load allows you to charge and listen at the same time.Go dragonfly!! The dragonfly is simply a high quality Dongle. Worth every penny.

[ LANCE Jan 07, 2020 ]

Yep worked for me

[ ROBERT Jan 06, 2020 ]

[ STEPHEN Aug 17, 2019 ]

Is this DAC compatible with PC's that are running on the latest version of Windows 10 and are the Windows 10 drivers available for this DAC?

Do not know I used it with a Mac book Pro

[ ANDRE Aug 17, 2019 ]

I do not use a LINUX system.

[ MARK Aug 17, 2019 ]

[ Kevin May 11, 2019 ]

DacMagic 100 can I use a adapter for a 30 pin to 8 pin or do I need a new docking station for iPod Classic to IPod Touch ?

Yes. I am running it for a trouble free year through all the problematic WIN10 upgrades. Good product

[ GORDON May 16, 2019 ]

[ Salvador56 Mar 10, 2019 ]

I have purchased the DacMagic 100, and now see that it requires you to manually power-on the unit with on/off switch each time you use it. I have all of my audio electronics in a closet controlled via IR remote transmitter, so having to go to closet each time to turn on DacMagic is a hassle. Is there a way to avoid this?

I use a Wadia iPod dock to run the digital signature from my iPod classic to the DAC magic. From there it goes to my vintage Pioneer receiver. Hope this helps.

[ KEVIN Mar 13, 2019 ]

I have been connecting my computer to the dac. Haven't tried iPod. Will try ASAP and let you know. Love what it does for the music! Best choice for me by far.

[ BENJAMIN Mar 13, 2019 ]

[ FORREST J Nov 10, 2018 ]

Would this DAC pair nicely with the Cambridge Audio CXC? My integrated amp (Luxman 505u) doesn't have a built in DAC...

Hi. It seems that the unit shuts off after a predetermined time. I have to turn it back on manually each time. It will not just stay on 24/7 I know of no way to switch it on or off any other way. Hope this helps.

[ Mark Nov 10, 2018 ]

I have the dac magic plus - I'll try a test to see if mine shuts off automatically, maybe contact Cambridge audio.

[ FIELDING Nov 10, 2018 ]

Run a separate cord and leave it in constantly

[ FIELDING Nov 10, 2018 ]

I have a similar situation and have decided to leave mine powered up since i use my system continually throughout the day.

[ Louis M. Nov 10, 2018 ]

[ Christopher May 25, 2018 ]

Will this item work with iTunes music, movie, and tv show purchases?

Yes, it would likely be good. The DacMagic gets great reviews, pretty uniformly. I was looking at that DAC & almost bought it, but opted for the Oppo Sonica (with its Sabre DAC chips), so I could stream music, as well. The sound from the CXC transport through the DAC in the Oppo Sonica is fantastic. The Cambridge CXC a great little afffordable transport. Unbeatable, for the cost. The only fault I can find so far is it is limited pretty much to redbook CDs only. I would also advise looking at Schiit DACs.

[ Heath R. Jun 03, 2018 ]

I do have the CXC transport and I have it paired with the CXN Streamer and network player. I think the DAC you are considering will work fine. You can also use it to play music from your computer. Good luck!

[ ELIEZER Jun 03, 2018 ]

[ Peter Jul 04, 2017 ]

Is there a recommendation over using a computer's S/PDIF output vs. a USB output? (I'm running a late-2015 iMac)

Yep.

[ ALEXANDER Jul 05, 2017 ]

Yes it will!

[ Richard Jul 04, 2017 ]

[ Michael Apr 07, 2017 ]

Can I hang this DAC off my local network via ethernet (optical connection to my receiver) and run it with an iMac playing iTunes playlists from another room? Please pardon any ignorance. If not this, what model DAC would work?

Can't help, regrettably. I'm using USB, and very happy with the result.

[ Lawrence Apr 08, 2017 ]

[ L M Feb 19, 2017 ]

I'm building a small computer for my garage-workshop for streaming music and Sirius Radio. This build will connect to a digital-to-analog converter which will connect to my new Onkyo TX-NR646 receiver. I want to use an optical Toslink cable from the computer to the DAC. I'm considering either the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 ($300) or the DacMagic Plus ($500). Considering my setup, will the DacMagic Plus produce any better sound than the DacMagic 100? Is the extra$200 justified?

The optical (S/PDIF) connector on the back of the DAC is very different from ethernet and is used for digital audio connections only. It is not compatible with the ethernet connections on your router/network. However, you can pass an audio signal over ethernet using an adapter such as an RCA to Ethernet or a USB to Ethernet. The latter being more expensive. I successfully transmitted analog audio from an iMac to my receiver in another room using an RCA/Ethernet adapter. Two tips... spend a little extra money for a good adapter and audio cables, AND make sure you set your audio output on the iMac to the highest output (24/192) using the Audio MIDI Setup.

[ Kyle Feb 21, 2017 ]

Dunno. I have it hooked up to a Microsoft Surface playing FLAC files with MusicBee and a US connection. Works great. I'm sure that it would work with mp3 or other formats as well, but I've never tried hooking it into the network. I don't see a CAT5 connector, but there may be another way to hook in to a network.

[ Lawrence Feb 20, 2017 ]

[ Jim Aug 08, 2016 ]

Looking to connect Apple TV to the DAC. However, my music is ripped or downloaded at 256. Will there be a difference in fidelity? I'm currently running Apple TV into my Pioneer Elite a/v receiver via hdmi. Also, will I still be able to leave my Apple TV connected to my receiver to get surround sound for movies. Just want the DAC for music. Thanks.

Jim : Very satisfied with the DAC 100. I have mine hooked up to a $50,000 system which features Mac Intosh electronics and B & W 802 speakers. I don't use Toslink I am up and running with just RCA connections but I am Sure the Toslink would be fine . My preamp is an older model Mac which does not have optical connections. I do mainly classical music and have a over 6000 downloads mostly 16 and 24 K with a few MP3's. I distribute my signals via 2 - I Macs to 2 different systems in my home. I use a Linksys 1900 AC as my wireless. I think I would save the $200 and go with just the DAC 100. I am very happy with what I have.

[ EDMUND J Aug 11, 2016 ]

You will be happier with the DAC magic plus!!

[ Richard Aug 08, 2016 ]

[ Brian Jan 21, 2016 ]

Question about inputs: In one of the reviews, someone said that they ran their cable box thru the DacMagic 100. Can this decode Dolby Digital signals? Or is the DAC improving the audio quality and amp is doing the decoding? I'm confused if they are actually losing rather than gaining? I'm looking to hook up a Sony SACD player and USB (from Macbook Air) for Tidal Hifi streaming. (but I'll do the cable box thing too if it makes sense!)

My setup is slightly different in that I have the AppleTV hdmi output going into the TV and TV hdmi output into the receiver. But, yes, I can choose whichever output I want on the receiver - the TV or the Digital from DAC - and they both work. I also have stereo and not surround, but I would think your current setup would continue to work. The DAC would just be a separate output choice on your receiver. I found that when going through the DAC there was a a definite improvement in overall sound quality from my mp3s, which are a mix of 256 and 320 downloads/rips. It wasn't overly dramatic and didn't knock my socks off or anything. But they definitely sound noticeably better, especially at increased volume.

[ Bruce Jan 22, 2016 ]

[ CHRISTOPHER Jun 19, 2015 ]

Can I connect my iPod shuffle to dac and dac out to my intergrated amp. Will I hear a difference in sound quality?

The DACMagic 100 is a very nice little unit. I an't answer your main question, but as to the SACD player, I'm pretty sure you won't be able to get a digital out from a SACD, just the CD 44.1KHz output from the CD layer. Too bad, I have another, pricy DAC that would play the native DSD stream from an SACD if the manufacturers would permit it.

[ JOHN Jun 20, 2015 ]

[ Miles Jun 02, 2014 ]

I'm experiencing significant signal loss and degradation (low volume, compromised fidelity) feeding an inexpensive DAC with a down mixed PCM signal to my integrated stereo amp. Some sources are better than others, but it all sounds as if a blanket has been draped over my tower speakers. I have to crank the volume just to make TV broadcasts and movies audible (over-the-air, streamed or on disc) and turn it back down for internet radio or CDs . Has anyone had this issue with the DacMagic 100? Does the volume level and fidelity significantly change among the sources selected? My only other solution would be adding an AVR with pre outs to my integrated stereo amp -- something I want to avoid, if at all possible.

The theory is that the Cambridge DAC is a better one than the one inside your IPod. When you hook the Cambridge to your IPod it bypasses the internal IPod DAC and provides better sound to your amp. I don't use an IPod but I use an ipad that I hook to a Cabridge DAC via a Bluetooth connector. Works great and I like the sound. Just remember, "better sound" is a subjective thing. Try it and return it to Crutchfield if you don't like it.

[ STEWART Jun 03, 2014 ]

I do not believe the iPod shuffle has a digital o/p on the headphone jack. So, no, it would not work. The Apple airport express has an optical o/p (digital) as well as an analog o/p thru the 'headphone' minijack. It improves sound quality a lot to use an external DAC because the DAC in the Airport Express is not that good!

[ Jeffrey Jun 03, 2014 ]

The USB input is the smaller square one, not the typical flatt-ish rectangular end. So, perhaps if you were clever and had an adaptor of some sort, but not directly methinks.

[ PHILLIP Jun 03, 2014 ]

[ Brion Apr 16, 2014 ]

I would like to use the DacMagic 100 to play my digital files from iTunes through an Airport Express(Airtunes, Toslink mini to Toslink in Dac) to an amplifier and speakers. I also have a turntable that I would like to connect and play through here. I assume the RCA jacks can be converted to S/Pdif into the DacMagic. In the end, this will allow me to switch between LPs and iTunes with out unplugging and replugging RCA and Monster cables. Does this sound feasible?

I have been using the DAC Magic 100 to run my high-quality audio FLAC files from my IPAD through my NAD 355BEE amp and have had excellent results, no loss of great, clear sound.

[ ROBERT Apr 17, 2014 ]

The DAVID Magic 100 solved all similar issues I was having. I can now burn CD's and create files from Internet music sites. Money well spent.

[ JOHN C Apr 17, 2014 ]

I use mine in my main system, not with a computer. I have noticed no problems with my CD player or my Blu-Ray player - CD through coaxial and Blu-Ray through optical.

[ CHARLES A. Apr 17, 2014 ]

I have the DacMagic 100 and feed it PCM from TV to integrated amp. I use the TV optical out to the DacMagic. The volume level is lower from the TV than from CD, tuner, etc, but only slightly so. Sounds nice and smooth. Hope that helps. Cheers.

[ MARK Apr 17, 2014 ]

[ Mark Mar 16, 2014 ]

can I output the signal into a standard amp (not a headphone) and from there to my hi-fi speakers ?

Hi Mark, What you want to try is a bit more complicated than what I used the DacMagic 100 for. I don't have experience with Airport Express, Toslink, or S/Pdif. I would recommend you chat or talk with someone at Crutchfield about your questions. They've been very helpful to me in the past. Worst case, you can buy the DacMagic 100 and if it doesn't work to your satisfaction, you can return it within 60 days for a refund minus $10 for return shipping. As an aside, I just returned my Dacmagic 100 simply because it was extremely difficult to hear any improvement in sound quality compared to what natively comes out of my iMac. I could hear a little more extended base through headphone using the DacMagic 100 but that was it. YMMV. Good luck in what ever you choose!

[ Greg Mar 17, 2014 ]

I too have used the iMac iTunes to airport express to toslink to DacMagic 100 to amps. Unless Apple has done something to improve it, the airport express does not go beyond cd quality rates (44.1 kHz, 16 bit). But I for one find that with well recorded CD's that is adequate for some great sounding music. But unless I'm missing something, why would you want to do anything but analog from your turntable to amp (with phono stage preamp)?

[ JOHN Mar 17, 2014 ]

[ morgan Dec 26, 2013 ]

17 answers

Yes, that is exactly what I did with my DacMagic 100. It sounds great and is a vast improvement over the audio output by the computer sound card.

[ William Jan 06, 2014 ]

Morgan... To be clear, I have the DACMagic 100 feeding my Pre-Amp which then feeds my Amp(s). I am not sure what you mean by Standard Amp For my stairs stereo, I have the DACMagic Plus that feeds right into my Amp since my AMP does not have a Preamp built into it. I have my CD player hooked into it as well. FYI, I think Pandora sounds better than CDs. Apple makes this a snap.. Windows you need to get special drivers. I hope that helps

[ WESLEY G Dec 29, 2013 ]

Morgan, I went from my CD player to the DacMagic, and from there to my amp. I used a digital "light" connection from my CD player to the DacMagic, and kept the RCA connection to my integrated amp. Everything else remained the same. The sound is much richer.

[ BLAIN Dec 28, 2013 ]

I have it configured where I have it feeding into a preamp then into my amp. It works great on my apple MAC. You should look at the DACMagic with the built in preamp. $499 at Cruthfield. I have one of them as well. It works great. If you use it with a PC you will need drivers to get the faster stream rate.

[ WESLEY G Dec 28, 2013 ]

There is no volume control or controls for equalizing it for your system. It would probably work but it is really made for use with a pre amp

[ THOMAS Dec 27, 2013 ]

Absolutely. Gold-plated RCA outputs sends the signal to your amp. Just use really high quality cables(Monster or other) to ensure you're getting a great signal from DAC Magic to your amp.

[ ROBERT Dec 27, 2013 ]

Yes. That is the correct way to hook-up this component. Take the RCA outs on the DAC to any open input on your receiver (by "amp" , I assume you have a receiver?). DO NOT use a phono input if you have one.

[ KENNETH Dec 27, 2013 ]

Yes!! That is the only way that I use it. I use my old laptop as a music server for my home theater system. I connect the USB cable from my laptop to the DAC and then use gold plated RCA cables (connected to the audio out on the DAC) to the AUX on my Onkyo receiver. I also connected an HDMI cable from my laptop to my flat screen tv to get GraceNote info about the CD or song that I'm playing to display on the screen. To take it a step further I added a wireless mouse to the laptop and can control everything without getting up!!! The DAC really improved the sound quality, the sound is less mechanical, it sounds like it's suppose to, not like it's computer generated. At least I think so. Happy listening! Greg

[ GREG Dec 27, 2013 ]

Morgan, the DAC plugs right into your integrated amp or preamp via standard RCA cables using the auxiliary inputs on the amp. It's a great little device. I have a Sony BluRay DVD player hooked into it using a coax audio cable. Also have a Bluetooth connection device attached using the optical Toslink connection. Nice sound!

[ STEWART Dec 27, 2013 ]

Yes. This is how I have mine configured. PC / USB -> DAC Stereo Connectors -> Standard AMP -> Speakers. I don't even know if there is a headphone option with the DAC.

[ PAUL Dec 27, 2013 ]

That's how I am using it. My CD player is connected via digital cable to DacMagic. Then the analog outputs of the DacMagic are connected to one of the line inputs in my preamp which is connected to my amp. If you have an integrated amp, the DacMagic is connected to one of the line inputs.

[ CHARLES A. Dec 27, 2013 ]

Hi Morgan, you can output the signal to a receiver or a preamp to an amp. The DacMagic does not have its own preamp, so you cant go directly into an amp. If you do, you will not be able to adjust the volume. I used mine to take the optical output from my TV and send it to my integrated amp. (Integrated means it has its own preamp with volume control)...

[ DAVID Dec 27, 2013 ]

Hi Morgan - Yes, you can definitely do that - in fact, that's how my system is configured. I can't look at the moment to see what all of the connection options are, but I'm using a standard audio cable. This is a nice unit, and you'll hear the difference. The only watch-out is that it shuts itself off after some amount of idle time, so you need to be able to access the front to turn it back on next time you want to use it. You can't bury it and forget it.

[ AMY Dec 27, 2013 ]

hi yes that is what i do

[ DAVID Dec 27, 2013 ]

Yes--output from DAC via audio cables to CD input of stereo amp -- the stereo amp is then connected to speakers. Note the DAC in this case gets input from digital output from CD player.

[ PAUL Dec 27, 2013 ]

Definitely. I have an Apple TV gen 3 connected to the DacMagic through an optical cable. From there, I connect RCA cables to a Pioneer Elite 2-Channel amplifier that go to 2 different sets of in ceiling speakers. Works perfectly.

[ Mitchell Dec 27, 2013 ]

Yes. The outputs are standard L and R RCA connectors.

[ John Dec 27, 2013 ]

If this DAC bypasses the computer speaker board does this mean it bypasses all the Creative Blaster tone controls built into the software of the computer to control bass, treble, environment sounds, etc? It's the only way to control the sound is the reason I'm asking. I have no other controls.

[ Tomato Dec 19, 2021 ]

is there a way to integrate the DAC with my premium stream service (ie Tital or Qobuz)?

Yes, and generally you want to bypass any audio circuitry in your computer, because the DAC's circuitry is superior (be sure to select your computer's digital out, not analog out). Be aware that there's also a version of this DAC ("DACMagic Plus", I think) which includes a volume knob; this might be a better fit if you don't have volume control downstream. That being said, you can still use your desktop's general volume control, if for example you're streaming audio from your disk drive or from your web browser, to the DAC and then to a speaker arrangement which lacks a separate volume control. Or if you install a streaming service's app on your computer, then that will typically include software volume control. In my case, I feed the DAC output to a high-end stereo, so I keep my desktop's volume control at maximum and then adjust the volume on the stereo, as this produces better sound (in my case anyway).

[ CASEY Dec 22, 2021 ]

I use it between my pc and my stereo receiver, and the volume and tone control is on the receiver. I wouldnt bother with this if just using pc speakers without separate amp.

[ LYNN Dec 20, 2021 ]

Well, I was under the impression that it did just that, but now that you ask, I guess I really don't know! Sadly that info is a bit above my level. I will say that I think it does sound better than the iTunes/Apple version. So now I want to know the answer to this question as well.

[ KENNETH Dec 20, 2021 ]

[ DOUG Apr 12, 2021 ]

8 answers

As soon as you connect the DAC to your computer and turn on the DAC, the DAC will be recognized as an audio output option, just like USB headphones. Like other such devices, you can set thr DAC as your default/preferred output. I turn on my DAC only when listening to my streaming service (Amazon Ultra HD), and as soon as I turn it on, it's recognized as my preferred output. Good luck, and enjoy!

[ CASEY May 12, 2021 ]

No. This is not streaming device, there is no wifi connection there is no blue tooth. You will need a device to play Tidal and Qobuz so a computer, phone, tablet, iPad. There are DAC /streamer combos and Dac/headphone amp combos. This isn't one of them, however. This is literally just a DAC; it does one thing and it excels at it!

[ Steven May 06, 2021 ]

I guess it depends on what devise you are using for streaming. My set up has the optical output from the Sonos into the DAC and then the output of the DAC to the amp input With RCA wires. Works great.

[ TOM May 05, 2021 ]

If you have a streaming device with a digital output, or if you use your phone/computer to stream and hook it up with the usb you can stream through this. This is just a digital to analog converter. It is itself has no integrated streaming ability on it's own. All that being said, it sound outstanding, and I love mine.

[ TYLER May 05, 2021 ]

You need a device to stream, and then you can set up the DAC as an audio out. I use a windows PC and connect to the DAC via USB.

[ MICHAEL R May 05, 2021 ]

I have used this DAC connected to my computer via USB. In that scenario you can pretty much use any service and direct the signal to the DAC via USB cable.

[ CUNEYT May 05, 2021 ]

With the Cambridge USB driver you can use Tidal for 96kHz through WASAPI. Assume the same through Qobuz.

[ MICHAEL May 05, 2021 ]

You need a dedicate streamer with any type of digital output and you are done. Obviously, you need a power amp to use this unit variable output or a pre-amp or a integrated amp using it with a fixed output.

[ CARLOS May 05, 2021 ]

I have an LG Thin Q 7 cellular device w unlimited 4G data package (but no Wi Fi or PC yet). I have been using a iFi Zen Blue, LDAC codec, as the primary source to my hi perf home audio system. I also use system for HiFi surround AV enjoyment, and have a '86 Vintage CD player. I've seen No mention of USB w Android Mobile Device. I was hoping to also improve my audio experience with my Tidal HiFi/Masters subscription...via wired vs. BT connection. Can the DAC Magic also provide at least some Fidelity benefit over the Zen blue given the mild inconvenience of having to use a wired connection from my listening position and using a wireless charging pad. Is this connection even feasible?

[ DAN Feb 18, 2021 ]

My cd player has only a set of RCA output Jacks. No any other optional output. How can I connect to this DAC?

I can't speak to the Android question, but I can speak to the fidelity: DACMagic is awesome. I have a high end system, and I bought the DM100 just to try Amazon HD Music. I tried DM100 with both Windows and Ubuntu 20, and both pairings work just fine. P.S. If you try Amazon HD Music, the sound is better through the web interface than through the Amazon app; also, some recordings are better fidelity than others, but overall fantastic paired with DM100.

[ CASEY Feb 19, 2021 ]

[ david Dec 12, 2020 ]

8 answers

RCA output is an analog signal, this means your cd player already has an integrated DAC. To use any external DAC you will need a digital output, coaxial (which resembles an RCA but is a single output) and optical are typical digital outputs. Hope this answer your question.

[ DANIEL Dec 13, 2020 ]

RCA outputs. (Red and white) are usually already analog so DAC processing performed in CD player. This DAC needs optical, coaxial, or usb for inputs.

[ W Brian Dec 13, 2020 ]

In order to use your CD player as a transport in conjunction with an external DAC, your CD player must have an optical or coaxial output connection. If it only has RCA output connections then it is not possible to bypass the CD player's internal DAC. Therefore the DacMagic nor any other external DAC can be used with that particular CD player.

[ DANIEL G Dec 13, 2020 ]

You cannot connect to this device if you only have rca output on your cd player

[ Louis Dec 12, 2020 ]

Dear David, To the best of my knowledge, if your cd player has only a set of RCA outputs, these should be analog outputs designed to feed your regular preamp/amp analog inputs. You would need a DIGITAL output in your cd player to feed the DIGITAL input in your DAC. Regards.

[ Alex Dec 12, 2020 ]

This DAC only accepts digital inputs via USB, Coaxial, or optical. Unless you can assign the RCA jack as digital, you can't use this DAC

[ David Dec 12, 2020 ]

Sorry, i can't help you, i returned this and went a different direction

[ Gilbert Dec 12, 2020 ]

If you don't have some kind of digital output, it's not possible.

[ Gabriel Dec 12, 2020 ]

Can this amp act as a Bluetooth device that my iPhone can connect to?

[ Joe Oct 14, 2020 ]

9 answers

No Bluetooth capability

[ Louis Oct 14, 2020 ]

To the best of my knowledge, the Dacmagic 100 has no Bluetooth capabilities. Regards.

[ Alex Oct 14, 2020 ]

No, you would have to connect a Bluetooth receiver to it. Then you'd be golden

[ Gabriel Oct 14, 2020 ]

There are no Bluetooth capabilities contained in this product. The DacMagic 100 takes the digital signal from your USB port of a laptop or other computer based device and converts the digital audio signal to analog audio as a low level signal that is intended as input to a high quality amplifier. I own two of them, and they are a great product. Larry Edson

[ Larry Oct 14, 2020 ]

Yes, but you need the Cambridge BT100 USB receiver. With receiver you can connect any Bluetooth audio output device.

[ DARRELL Oct 14, 2020 ]

No, for that you'll need the Dacmagic Plus, along with the separately-sold BT100 Bluetooth receiver.

[ CHARLES Oct 14, 2020 ]

It does not have bluetooth capability. But you can plug a computer in via usb.

[ GREG Oct 14, 2020 ]

No. It is a Digital to Audio (Dac) device. It is not an amp.

[ LLOYD H H Oct 14, 2020 ]

this is not an amp. It's a Dac. Digital to analog converter.

[ RICHARD Oct 14, 2020 ]

can this be hooked up to a rotel power and preamp and use for tidal mqa files?

[ Peter Aug 14, 2020 ]

Does the Dock Magic 100 have Bluetooth capability?

It has stereo rca type output jacks that can be hooked up to any rca type input with the exception of a phono input. It will play Mia files although I'm not sure if natively

[ Louis Aug 31, 2020 ]

Not sure what a rotel power is but you can hook up to a preamp, and it will play Tidal MQA flies but DAC is not MQA compatible itself. Tidal software can do the first MQA "unfold", dac will not do any further MQA unfolding

[ Bernardo Aug 31, 2020 ]

[ PATRICK Mar 25, 2020 ]

8 answers

[ W Brian Mar 26, 2020 ]

No.

[ RAFAEL Mar 26, 2020 ]

Unfortunately no

[ DAN Mar 26, 2020 ]

I don't think so. I use mine to connect a laptop to my receiver. My receiver has Bluetooth and I could by pass the DAC and go directly on receiver, but I find the sound quality better. The laptop is running a Plex music server.

[ BERT Mar 25, 2020 ]

The DacMagic 100 does not have Bluetooth capability.

[ Greg Mar 25, 2020 ]

eont know, i returned mine . bought a new preamp with built in dac

[ Gilbert Mar 25, 2020 ]

No it does not. If you want bluetooth you need to upgrade to Dacmagic Plus and order the Cambridge Audio BT100.

[ WILLIAM S Mar 25, 2020 ]

[ Bernardo Mar 25, 2020 ]

Can I go from an iphone streaming spotify to the DAC with Stereo mini to stereo RCA adapter?

[ TODD Mar 24, 2020 ]

If I plug my tv audio output into this via an optical audio cable, will all of the components plugged into my tv via hdmi send the audio through to this DAC? Or do the components have to be individually plugged in directly to the DAC and then from the DAC to the TV?

not because the dac only processes digital signals

[ ELIEZER Mar 28, 2020 ]

Yes, you can go with that

[ Tuan Mar 24, 2020 ]

If you want your DAC. To do what you really want I would use your usb charging cable and use the USB input of the DAC. The rca connections are for output TO your stereo

[ Louis Mar 24, 2020 ]

Yes and works great running in through an old marantz 2330 great sound

[ web Mar 24, 2020 ]

[ ALEXANDER Dec 13, 2017 ]