evo phonodac two user manual pra - m2tech srl....m2tech evo phonodac two dxd-dsd a-to-d and d-to-a...

M2TECH EVO PHONODAC TWO DXD-DSD A-TO-D AND D-TO-A CONVERTER

PHONO PREAMPLIFIER

USER MANUAL

M2TECH

EVO P DAC TwoHONODXD-DSD A/D-D/A CONVERTER

PHONO PREAMP

CLIP

REV. PrA – 7/2016

EVO PHONODAC TWO DXD-DSD A-TO-D AND D-TO-A CONVERTER – PHONO PREAMP REVISION PRA – JULY 2016

Copyright © 2016, M2Tech Srl

2

M2Tech www.m2tech.biz



3


Warning! Changes or modifications not authorized by the manufacturer can invalidate the compliance to CE regulations and cause the unit to be no more suitable to use. The manufacturer refuses every responsibility regarding damages to people or things due to the use of a unit which has been subject to unauthorized modifications or to misuse or to malfunction of a unit which has been subject to unauthorized modifications.

This unit is compliant with the following CE regulations: CEI EN 55022:2009 Class B (Radiated Emissions), CEI EN 55024:1999, CEI EN 55024:A2/2003, CEI EN 55024:IS1/2008 (Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, 50Hz Magnetic Field Immunity Test and Electrostatic Discharges – ESD).

For a proper operation of this unit, all connections to other equipment in the system must be done when all equipment are off. Failing to comply with this advice may lead to damage to the EVO PHONODAC TWO.

The label above, printed on the product case, indicates that the product, when no more usable, can’t be treated as generic garbage, but must be disposed of at a collection point for recycling of electrical and electronic equipment, in compliance with the WEEE regulation (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment). By making sure that this unit is correctly recycled, you will help preventing potential damages to environment and human health, which could be caused by a wrong treatment of this product as generic garbage. Materials’ recycling helps saving natural resources. For more in-depth information about recycling this product, please contact M2Tech Srl. WARNING: the information contained in this manual are considered to be reliable and accurate. M2Tech reserves the right to change or modify the information any time, without prior advice. It’s up to the customer to ensure that the manual being consulted is the latest version.



4


Dear customer, Thank you for purchasing EVO PHONODAC TWO. You’re the owner of a very high quality D-to-A and A-TO-D combo with a wealth of unique features, conceived to deliver the best performance in conjunction with your computer and audio devices. EVO PHONODAC TWO implements a set of technological and functional solutions, from the low jitter, high precision crystal oscillators, to the versatile external clock input for higher quality clocks like those delivered by the EVO CLOCK TWO, to the versatile equalization capability in digital domain allowing for phono eq, to the low noise supply which accomplishes an outstanding 120dB SNR. EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with a wide range of inputs, analog and digital ones, therefore it’s able to interface with virtually every audio device. The special optical output for communicating information about the sampling frequency being selected allows for automatic external clock generator reconfiguration when used with the EVO CLOCK TWO. The remote control provided with the EVO PHONODAC TWO grants complete access to all its features, while the LCD display clearly shows all the operation information.. We’re sure that your expectations will be fulfilled by purchasing EVO PHONODAC TWO: your system will exhibit an incredible sonic performance, so you can now prepare for a whole new listening experience! Nadia Marino, CEO

Please note here your EVO PHONODAC TWO serial number and purchase info for future reference:

S/N: _______________________ Date of Purchase: _________________________ Place of Purchase__________________________

Note: Proof of retail purchase, such as your purchase receipt, will be required in the unlikely event that any warranty service will be required



5


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Unpacking and Placing the Unit.......................................................................................7 2. Front Panel ......................................................................................................................9 3. Rear Panel.....................................................................................................................11 4. remote control................................................................................................................13 5. Connecting and Powering the Unit ................................................................................15 6. Cleaning the Unit ...........................................................................................................17 7. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWO.....................................................................................19

7.1. Input selection .........................................................................................................19 7.2. HID with the USB input............................................................................................19 7.3. Analog input gain and impedance ...........................................................................19 7.4. Equalization.............................................................................................................19 7.5. Clip indicator ...........................................................................................................20 7.6. External clock, auxiliary S/PDIF input......................................................................20 7.7. DSD and DXD .........................................................................................................21 7.8. Filters ......................................................................................................................21

8. Configuring the EVO PHONODAC TWO ...........................................................................23 8.1. Left-Right balance (BALANCE) ...............................................................................23 8.2. External clock (EXT CLK)........................................................................................23 8.3. Power-on volume (PWR ON VOL) ..........................................................................23 8.4. Output signal phase (PHASE).................................................................................24 8.5. Channels swap (CH SWAP)....................................................................................24 8.6. Low-pass filter (LP FILTER) ....................................................................................24 8.7. High-pass filter (HP FILTER)...................................................................................24 8.8. MPX filter (MPX FLT) ..............................................................................................24 8.9. Phono equalization (EQ Phono)..............................................................................25 8.10. ADC resolution (ADC RES)...................................................................................25 8.11. ADC sampling frequency (ADC FS) ......................................................................25 8.12. ADC input gain (ADC GAIN) .................................................................................25 8.13. ADC clip indicator reference level (ADC CLIP) .....................................................26 8.14. Menu default values restore (DEFAULT) ..............................................................26 8.15. Menu exit (EXIT) ...................................................................................................26

9. Notes on equalization ....................................................................................................27 9.1. Why equalization is needed for records? ................................................................27 9.2. List of phono equalization curves available on the EVO PHONODAC TWO and notes on their usage ................................................................................................................30

9.2.1. RIAA .................................................................................................................30 9.2.2. AES ..................................................................................................................30 9.2.3. Angel (ANG) .....................................................................................................31 9.2.4. Audiophile (AUDP)............................................................................................31 9.2.5. Capitol (CAP)....................................................................................................31 9.2.6. Columbia (COL)................................................................................................31 9.2.7. HMV..................................................................................................................31 9.2.8. Decca/London FFRR ........................................................................................31 9.2.9. MGM.................................................................................................................31 9.2.10. NAB ................................................................................................................32 9.2.11. Oiseau-Lyre (OYLR) .......................................................................................32 9.2.12. Pacific Jazz (PACJ) ........................................................................................32 9.2.13. Philips .............................................................................................................32



6


9.2.14. RCA (RCA1, RCA2 and RCAO) .....................................................................32 9.2.15. Brunswick .......................................................................................................32 9.2.16. Columbia 1925, Columbia 1938 and Columbia England (CO25, CO38 and COLE).........................................................................................................................32 9.2.17. Decca FFRR 78rpm (DEC).............................................................................33 9.2.18. MGM 78rpm (MGM7)......................................................................................33 9.2.19. Victor 1938-47 and Victor 1947-52 (VIC3 and VIC4) ......................................33

9.3. Equalizing tapes: why and when .............................................................................33 9.3.1. CCIR/IEC for 9.5cm/s and 19cm/s (3¾ ips and 7½ ips) and CCIR/IEC for 38cm/s (15 ips) (IEC1 and IEC3)................................................................................34 9.3.2. NAB for 9.5cm/s (3¾ ips) and NAB for 19cm/s (7½ ips)...................................34

9.4. Acquiring with equalization......................................................................................34 9.5. Interfacing a cartridge or a tape head......................................................................34 9.6. Recording programs................................................................................................35

10. Using a Computer as Digital Source and/or Sink.........................................................37 10.1. Plug’n’Play Operation with Apple OSX..................................................................37

10.1.1. DSD files playback with Mac...........................................................................39 10.2. Plug’n’Play Operation with Linux...........................................................................40

10.2.1. DSD files playback with Linux.........................................................................42 10.3. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWO with Windows .....................................................42

10.3.1. Installing the Windows driver ..........................................................................42 10.3.2. Windows driver uninstall .................................................................................49 10.3.3. Windows Driver Panel ....................................................................................53 10.3.4. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWO as Windows predefined audio device ..........57 10.3.5. Configuring the player: FooBar and JRiver Media Center ..............................61 10.3.6. Connecting the EVO PHONODAC TWO to an USB 1.1 port ..............................67

11. Updating the EVO PHONODAC TWO .............................................................................69 12. Using a power supply different from the standard one.................................................71 13. Specifications...............................................................................................................73



7


1. Unpacking and Placing the Unit Lay the box on a table and open it by separating it from the external paperwork. The following items are included:

• one EVO PHONODAC TWO;

• one wall adaptor (9VDC or 12VDC or 15VDC);

• one remote control. Should one or more item be missing, please contact your retail dealer. NOTE: no cables are provided; the user is free to choose her/his favourite ones. Remove the EVO PHONODAC TWO from the foam enclosure and place it onto a stable base, far from heat sources. Avoid full sunlight on the unit. Allow for ample room around the unit for venting. Avoid smoke, moisture, dirt and liquids from reaching the unit. NOTE: any signs of abuse will void warranty coverage. Do not place the unit on thick carpets or inside a box or piece of furniture, not even close to curtains.



8




9


2. Front Panel

M2TECH

EVO P DAC TwoHONODXD-DSD A/D-D/A CONVERTER

PHONO PREAMP

CLIP

2 31

Figure 1

1) Display. It shows the operation information (sampling frequency, selected input, etc.). Moreover, it shows all active options (See Chap. 8). 2) Clip indicator. It lits when the input analog signal reaches the preset level (See Chap. 7). 3) Remote control IR receiver. Aim the remote at this point to send command to the device. NOTE: the remote control provided with the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO is the same used for the Evo DAC TwoEvo DAC TwoEvo DAC TwoEvo DAC Two and EVO DAC TWO PLUSEVO DAC TWO PLUSEVO DAC TWO PLUSEVO DAC TWO PLUS. For this reason, whenever the user owns both units, it may happen that a command sent to one of them will also affect the other. To avoid interferences, place the two units apart each other or keep the unused unit off.



10




11


3. Rear Panel

S/N:

OUT

CHASSIS

LT

M2TECH

USBVIN

7.5-15VDC

IN

ANALOG

RT

CLOCK INCLK INFO

50K10ZIN

4 6 8

5

9 10 11

7

Figure 2

4) Supply input. Connect the stock wall wart or one of the outputs of the EVO SupplY Two using one of the cables provided with the latter. 5.5/2.1mm jack. 5) Chassis post. Low-level sources, like a phono pickup, should have their earth or chassis wire connected to this post to reduce hum. 6) External clock or S/PDIF input. Connect to the output of a clock generator, like the EVO CLOCK Two using a 75 Ohms BNC terminated cable. This input works at its best when connected to the EVO CLOCK Two master clock output, anyway it also accepts standard word clocks and even the reference 10MHz clock. As an alternative, connect to the S/PDIF output of a digital audio device. It may be used to playback digital audio from a CD or DVD player. The usage of this input is set by menu (See Chap. 7). Female BNC connector. 7) Input impedance matching control. Set to the value required by the source driving the EVO PHONODAC Two’s analog input. 8) USB port. Connect to a 2.0 or 3.0 USB port of a computer. The EVO PHONODAC TWO exchanges audio data with a computer through this connection. 9) Optical output for clock information. Connect to the clock info input of the EVO CLOCK Two using a Toslink™ fibre cable. Toslink™ transmitter. 10) Stereo analog input. Connect the output of any analogue source. Female RCA connectors. 11) Stereo analog output. Connect the input of any analogue device like a preamplifier or a mixer. Female RCA connectors.



12




13


4. remote control

OK >>

>

>

MENU/ESC

M2TECH

1

2

3

4

INPUT/MUTE

Figure 3

1) Input/Menu. Press to select the next input. Double-press to select the previous input. Press and keep to toggle muting. 2) Menu/Esc. Press this button to access the menu and to exit the menu without affecting the current settings. 3) Navigation buttons. They have various functions, both during menu navigation and when the menu is not active, as explained in detail in the following chapters. 4) OK. It selects the menu option shown on the display. When the menu is not active and the USB input is selected, this button allows to send the player running on the computer the play/pause command or, with a long press, the stop command.



14




15


5. Connecting and Powering the Unit WARNING: All connections between the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO and other equipment must be made when all units are turned off and completely powered down or unplugged. Failing to do so may cause damage to the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO and/or other units. Please refer to chapter 3, “Back Panel”. Connect the EVO PHONODAC TWO to a computer with a 2.0 A-B USB cable connected to the USB port (Fig. 2,8). We recommend the cable be no longer than 3m. If you also own the EVO CLOCK TWO, connect its master clock output to the EVO PHONODAC TWO external clock input (Fig. 2, 6) with a 75 Ohms BNC-terminated cable (not in stock). It is also possible to use other clock generators, whereas their output is able to drive 75 Ohms matched lines. If the EVO CLOCK TWO is not used and a digital source needs to be connected instead, connect the latter’s digital output to EVO PHONODAC TWO S/PDIF input (Fig. 2, 6), using a digital interconnect terminated with an RCA plug on one side and a BNC plug on the other side, or use an RCA digital interconnect and an RCA-to-BNC adapter on the EVO PHONODAC TWO side. If the EVO CLOCK TWO is used, connect its clock info optical input to the EVO PHONODAC TWO clock info output (Fig. 2, 9) using a Toslink™ fibre interconnect (not in stock) to make the EVO CLOCK TWO clock switching automatic. Connect the output of an analog source to the EVO PHONODAC TWO analog input (Fig. 2, 10) using a stereo analog interconnect terminated with RCA. When the analog source is low level or whenever the best signal-to-noise ratio is required, connect the source chassis/earth post to the EVO PHONODAC TWO chassis post (Fig. 2, 5). This is also useful to connect the EVO PHONODAC TWO chassis to an earth connection, to avoid floating voltages injecting noise in the signal. Connect the input of an analog device to the EVO PHONODAC TWO analog output (Fig. 2, 11) using a stereo analog interconnect terminated with RCA. Connect the stock wall wart or one of the EVO SUPPLY TWO outputs to the supply input of the EVO PHONODAC TWO (Fig. 2, 4). NOTE: the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO cannot be powered by the USB bus 5V supply, therefore a power supply or adaptor is always needed. WARNING: the maximum voltage allowed by the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO at its supply connector is 15V. Whenever a power supply delivering more than 15V is used, the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO may be damaged. Should this be the case, the warranty is void and servicing or replacement of the faulty unit will be charged to the user.



16


NOTE: that the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO is not provided with a power switch, therefore it will power on as soon as a power supply is connected to it, lighting the display (Fig. 1, 1) and showing the operation status info.



17


6. Cleaning the Unit The EVO PHONODAC TWO should be cleaned with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use alcohol or any other types of cleaning fluids as they could damage the unit. Avoid fluids from dropping or leaking inside the unit. Fluids of any type poured into the unit will void your warranty. Do not apply excessive force to the display, to avoid damaging it.



18




19


7. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO

7.1. Input selection

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with three inputs: one is the USB port (Fig. 2, 8), th second one is the analog input (Fig. 2, 10) and the third one is the S/PDIF input (Fig. 2, 6), which may not be available is an external clock generator is connected to the EVO PHONODAC TWO. They are selected in a sequential fashion using the input/menu button on the remote control. NOTE: that when the external clock is used, the S/PDIF input is not included in the inputs list for selection.

7.2. HID with the USB input

The EVO PHONODAC TWO allows the user to control the player on the computer when the USB input is selected. The following commands are available:

• Play/Pause (“OK” button);

• Stop ( “OK” button, long press);

• Previous track ( “arrow left” button);

• Next track ( “arrow right” button). To use the HID feature, it is necessary to use a compliant player.

7.3. Analog input gain and impedance

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an analog input with settable gain between 0dB and 62dB and impedance between 10 Ohms and 50k Ohms. This makes the EVO PHONODAC TWO suitable to accept signals from both high-level sources (like CD players, tuners, guitar head units, mixers…) and low-level sources (like phono cartridges, tape heads…). Input level can be up to 2.5Vrms at 0dB gain. While the input gain is set by menu, input impedance is set by a pot on the back panel. Some relevant values are indicated on the panel’s silkscreen, but any value between 10 Ohms and 50k Ohms can be set.

7.4. Equalization

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with DSP capabilities which allow for equalizing the signal right after the analog-to-digital conversion. The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with a wealth of equalization curves to fit every record standard, from old 78rms to modern 33rpm, plus some reel tape eq curves for reel-to-reel tape recorders fans who want to



20


bypass their deck head amp. See Chapter 9 for more details. Of course, a “flat” setting (no equalization) is available for all uses different from record ripping or playback.

7.5. Clip indicator

As the EVO PHONODAC TWO input headroom is, like every ADC, limited, a clip indicator is provided (Fig. 1, 2). The clip indicator lits whenever the input signal is larger than a preset reference level. This indicator is useful to correctly set the analog input gain. A more refined setting can be achieved by using the level indicators of the program used to record on the computer from the EVO PHONODAC TWO. Setting the reference value to -6dB or similar minimizes the risk of clipping the signal during conversion, at the cost of around 1bit resolution. Setting the reference value to -2dB to 0dB allows to fully exploit the ADC dynamic, at the cost of more likely clipping events. When using the EVO PHONODAC TWO as a phono preamplifier, a few clipping events can be tolerated, as they’re most probably related to clicks and pops due to record surface dirt or damages.

7.6. External clock, auxiliary S/PDIF input

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an input for an external clock (Fig. 2, 6). This input is very versatile, as it’s able to recognize the frequency of the clock applied and, when needed, synthesize the needed master clock. The external clock input accepts all most common word clocks and the so-called “super clock” plus, of course the master clocks generated by the Evo CLOCK Two. Moreover, it accepts the 10MHz standard reference clock. The external clock input can be disabled, or enabled in automatic mode: in this mode, when a valid clock is detected on the external clock input, it is used to clock the unit, otherwise the EVO PHONODAC TWO automatically reverts to the internal oscillators. Together with the external clock input, the EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an optical output by means of which it sends the Evo CLOCK Two information about the needed sampling frequency. This way, the Evo CLOCK Two is able to automatically switch the clock based on the EVO PHONODAC TWO requirements, without the use being asked to manually operate it. When the PHONODAC TWO external clock input is disabled, it can be used as a digital input in S/PDIF format. It accepts PCM digital audio 44.1kHz to 192kHz. As most digital audio sources are provided with an RCA connector, while the PHONODAC TWO input is provided with a BNC connector, a special digital interconnect fitted with RCA plug on one side and BNC plug on the other wide may be necessary. As an alternative, user may apply an RCA-to BNC adaptor (RCA female, BNC male) to the PHONODAC TWO input and use a normal RCA-terminated digital interconnect. On the other hand, sources provided with BNC output connector may be connected using a BNC-terminated digital interconnect.



21


7.7. DSD and DXD

The PHONODAC TWO DAC section handles both DXD and DSD on its USB port. On the other hand, analog signals may only be converted in PCM (up to 384kHz/32bit), while the auxiliary S/PDIF inputs only accepts PCM up to 192kHz/24bits, conforming to the standard.

7.8. Filters

The PHONODAC TWO DAC is provided with a wealth of filters, to optimize the coupling with every analog source. A high-pass (anti-rumble) filter allows for reducing the low-frequency rumble produced by poorly set turntables or warped records. A low-pass (anti-hiss) filter limits the high frequency noise present in old 78rpm records and in certain FM stereo broadcasts, as well as in certain recordings on cassette tape.

Figure 4



22


The MPX filter eliminates the 19kHz FM stereo sub-carrier from FM broadcasts which is perceived by certain people as a thin whistle or a unease sensation.

Figure 5



23


8. Configuring the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO The EVO PHONODAC TWO offers various operation options which can be chosen by a menu navigated with the remote control. To access the menu, the user must press the MENU/ESC button once (Fig. 3, 2). Once in the menu, a second press of the same button will cause the menu to exit. The menu is two-level: the first level is the list of available options, in the second level are the lists of available value of each option. In the second level the item “BACK” is always available which allows to go back to first level. Alternatively, it is possible to go back to first level by pressing the “arrow left” button on the remote. In the first level, the “EXIT” item allows for exiting the menu. In each level, it’s possible to scroll the available items using the “arrow up” and “arrow down” buttons. To confirm the displayed value, press the “OK” button. To go back to higher level, just press the “arrow left” button. NOTE: after a few seconds idle, the menu automatically exits. Below, the various menu items and related values are described in detail.

8.1. Left-Right balance (BALANCE)

This item is a multi-value choice: balance can be set within 8dB to left or right, in 0.5dB steps. After setting the desired value, press OK to store it.

8.2. External clock (EXT CLK)

This item relates to 3 values:

• BACK: go to level 1;

• S/PDIF IN: set the external clock input as an S/PDIF input for the DAC;

• AUTO: sets the EVO PHONODAC TWO to use any valid external clock present on the external clock input, otherwise the internal oscillators are used;

• NO: forces the EVO PHONODAC TWO to always use the internal oscillators and disables the S/PDIF in feature.

8.3. Power-on volume (PWR ON VOL)

This item also relates to 3 values:


• LAST: at power on, the EVO PHONODAC TWO S/PDIF sets its output volume to the last value set by the user before powering it off;



24


• MUTED: at power on, the EVO PHONODAC TWO S/PDIF sets the output volume to zero (complete mute).

8.4. Output signal phase (PHASE)



• INVERTED: the output signal’s polarity will be inverted;

• NORMAL: the output signal’s polarity will NOT be inverted.

8.5. Channels swap (CH SWAP)



• YES: left and right channel signals will be swapped at output connectors (left channel sent to right connector and right channel sent to left connector);

• NO: left and right channel signals will be sent to their related output connectors.

8.6. Low-pass filter (LP FILTER)



• 5KHZ: frequencies above 5kHz will be cut off;

• 10KHZ: frequencies above 10kHz will be cut off;

• OFF: signal is passed without high frequency cut.

8.7. High-pass filter (HP FILTER)



• 120HZ: frequencies below 120Hz will be cut off;

• 60HZ: frequencies above 60Hz will be cut off;

• 15HZ: frequencies above 15Hz will be cut off (IEC compliancy);

• 1HZ: frequencies above 1Hz will be cut off;

• OFF: signal is passed without low frequency cut.

8.8. MPX filter (MPX FLT)



25


MPX filter is a notch filter (it only deletes one frequency) centred at 19kHz. It’s useful to delete the stereo sub-carrier residuals from stereo FM signals. The filter has no effect on the audio signal, as FM stereo bandwidth is, by standard, limited to 16kHz. This item relates to 3 values:


• ON: the MPX filter is on (19kHz will be deleted);

• OFF: the MPX filter is off..

8.9. Phono equalization (EQ Phono)

This item has several values, please see details in Chap. 9:

8.10. ADC resolution (ADC RES)



• 32 bit: analog input signal will be quantized to 32 bits;



• 16 bit: analog input signal will be quantized to 16 bits;.

8.11. ADC sampling frequency (ADC FS)

NOTE: this item is only relevant with the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO operates in standalone mode (that is, not connected to a computer by USB), otherwise the sampling frequency will be set by the computer. This item relates to 9 values:


• 384.0kHz: analog input signal will be converted at 384kHz;

• 352.8kHz: analog input signal will be converted at 352.8kHz;

• 192kHz: analog input signal will be converted at 192kHz;





• 44.1kHz: analog input signal will be converted at 44.1kHz;.

8.12. ADC input gain (ADC GAIN)



26


This item is a multi-value choice: ADC input gain can be set 0dB to 62dB, in 1dB steps. After setting the desired value, press OK to store it. Optimal value for a standard MM cartridge is around 32-34dB, 52-58dB are suitable to low-output MC cartridges. 0dB to 6dB are good values for line-level sources (0dB typically for a CD player, 3-6dB for a cassette tape recorder or a tuner).

8.13. ADC clip indicator reference level (ADC CLIP)

This item is a multi-value choice: clip reference level can be set between 0dB and -6dB in 1dB steps. After setting the desired value, press OK to store it.

8.14. Menu default values restore (DEFAULT)



• NO: keep present values;

• YES: restore factory defaults.

8.15. Menu exit (EXIT)

The menu is terminated when this item is selected. As already stated, the menu automatically exits after a few seconds idle.



27


9. Notes on equalization

9.1. Why equalization is needed for records?

When cutting a record, two problems must be faced: the dynamic of the media, which is related to the groove width and depth, thus to the record diameter and thickness, and the surface noise. As low frequency tones tend to cut large, deep grooves, dynamic limits are likely to be hit due to the low frequency content of the music being cut into the vinyl. On the other hand, high frequency tones have generally low amplitude, thus they are likely to be covered by surface noise. To solve the above problems, an equalization is applied to the signal before sending it to the cutting lathe: low frequencies are attenuated to reduce their dynamic and high frequencies are amplified to elevate them over the surface noise floor. Of course, the reversed equalization is applied to the signal coming out of a cartridge while reading a disc: low frequencies are amplified and high frequencies are attenuated (together with the surface noise which becomes less apparent). Presently, all records are cut using the RIAA curve (Figure 6), which has been proposed as a standard back in 1954. Both low frequencies amplification and high frequencies attenuation for playback are clearly visible.

RIAA playback curve

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

1012

,5 16 20 2531

,5 40 50 63 80 100

125

160

200

250

315

400

500

630

800

1000

1250

1600

2000

2500

3125

4000

5000

6300

8000

1000

0

1250

0

1600

0

2000

0

Hz

dB

Figure 6



28


The curve has three parameters:

1. the turnover frequency, that is the frequency below which the low frequencies start to be attenuated during the recording and amplified during the playback (500Hz for RIAA);

2. the roll-off, that is the value of the high frequency amplification at 10kHz during recording and attenuation during playback (16dB for RIAA);

3. the shelving frequency, that is the frequency below which the low frequency attenuation during recording and high frequency amplification during playback are limited to a fixed value (50Hz for RIAA).

Before the introduction of the RIAA standard curve, each recording company used her own “secret” curve (FFRR from Decca/London, HMV, Capitol, Columbia…), with big troubles for music lovers, because no amplifier could be provided with all equalization circuits to accommodate all the different curves. For this reason, all amplifiers were provided with tone controls: not to compensate speakers response nor room acoustics, but to adapt the one and only phono curve provided with the amp to the different curves of the various LP’s. Not only LP’s are equalized: equalization was used for 78rpm, too, as well with great variety of choices. A good phono preamplifier, or an ADC suitable for direct phono acquiring as is the EVO PHONODAC TWO, should allow the vinyl collector to choose the right curve for each LP pressed before 1954 (but it’s known that many recording companies adopted the RIAA curve years after the official introduction date. It seems that some eastern Europe labels only adopted RIAA around 1975!). Most collectors use the RIAA curve to listen to all their records, often resulting in a sound which is not the one really recorded on master tape. To show the reason of that, Figure 7 on next page shows some of the most famous playback curves superimposed on the same graph. Differences are not subtle! Note the different low frequency amplification due to different turnover frequencies and the different high frequency attenuation due to different roll-offs. Also, note that no shelving is applied to HMV and Capitol curves. In fact, shelving is a relatively recent choice to avoid phono preamps excessively amplifying the turntable rumble, thus saturating. Older curves were thought for playback systems in which the low frequency limit was relatively high (50-80Hz) and for recordings with poor low frequency content, setups in which the turntable rumble was not a problem.



29


Eq comparison

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

1012

,5 16 20 2531

,5 40 50 63 80 100

125

160

200

250

315

400

500

630

800

1000

1250

1600

2000

2500

3125

4000

5000

6300

8000

1000

0

1250

0

1600

0

2000

0

Hz

dB

RIAA

FFRR

Capitol

Columbia

HMV

RCA

Figure 7

To better understand the effect of using the wrong equalization curve to play a record, Figure 8 shows the relative level versus frequency of the music on a Decca FFRR record when it is played through a RIAA phono input of a modern amplifier.

Equalization of the signal of a Decca FFRR record being amplified by a RIAA phono

stage

-3

-2

-1

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1012

,5 16 20 2531

,5 40 50 63 80 100

125

160

200

250

315

400

500

630

800

1000

1250

1600

2000

2500

3125

4000

5000

6300

8000

1000

0

1250

0

1600

0

2000

0

Hz

dB

Figure 8



30


See how low frequencies are excessively exalted due to the different turnover frequency (50Hz for RIAA, 100Hz for FFRR), while high frequencies are attenuated more than required due to the different roll-off (13.7dB for RIAA, 10.5dB for FFRR). The sound of this setup would be much heavier and darker than intended by the recording engineer, with booming low frequencies and muffled highs. A good recording would be turned into a terrible one! Now the need for a large collection of phono equalization curves is apparent.

9.2. List of phono equalization curves available on the EVO PHONODAC EVO PHONODAC EVO PHONODAC EVO PHONODAC TWOTWOTWOTWO and notes on their usage

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with 16 curves for microgroove LP’s and 7 curves for 78rpm’s. A quick search on the Internet will allow you to find that the old record labels were more than the figures above and that sometimes the same record label used different curves during the years. Actually, it can be seen that some labels used the same curve as other labels (e.g. Mercury used the same curve as Capitol), so the curve set provided with the EVO PHONODAC TWO is the one which covers almost all the labels producing records between 1925 and 1954. To find out more about which curve to use with a specific record, extensive literature may be found on the Internet (for example: http://www.shellac.org/wams/wequal.html, http://midimagic.sgc-hosting.com/mixcurve.htm ).

9.2.1. RIAA

It’s the standard curve of present days, used from almost all the record labels since 1954. Its use is generally indicated on the record label and/or on the cover. It is actually the same curve as the RCA’s “New Orthophonic”, so it can be used to play RCA records claiming the use of that curve also. During the years, RIAA made some amendments to the curve. The most relevant, after an indication from IEC, was the addition of a 16Hz high pass to cope with the rumble produced by warped records or noisy turntables. Not all cutting plants adopted this amendment and it’s very difficult to tell whether or not it’s been adopted for a certain pressing, as the curve is always indicated as RIAA. The EVO PHONODAC TWO has not a specific RIAA/IEC curve, but it can be obtained by selecting RIAA and the high-pass filter at 16Hz (see Section 8.7).

9.2.2. AES

AES (Audio Engineering Society) proposed a phono equalization curve back in 1951. As far as we know, no label explicitly adopted it, but the discerning record collector may be aware of its use, so it’s been included for completeness.



31


9.2.3. Angel (ANG)

Angel was a record label incorporated by EMI who produced great records.

9.2.4. Audiophile (AUDP)

Audiophile is known amongst record collectors for her great recordings, on both 78rpm and microgroove LP. Acoustic Sounds proposed the reissue of some Audiophile recordings on coloured heavy weight vinyl some 15 years ago. The label was mainly devoted to jazz and blues.

9.2.5. Capitol (CAP)

Capitol had a large production of very good mono recordings.

9.2.6. Columbia (COL)

Columbia is the inventor of microgroove LP, which got to success after a market war against RCA, who was sponsoring a 45rpm microgroove standard.

9.2.7. HMV

HMV (His Master’s Voice, after the painting with the dog Nipper listening to a gramophone), formerly The Gramophone Company, is one of the oldest record labels ever. It later became part of EMI when the latter bought Capitol, and had RCA as shareholder for a certain time. From 1948 to 1954 recorded a lot of jazz, pop and classical music, pressing LP’s with her proprietary curve.

9.2.8. Decca/London FFRR

The English Decca developed her FFRR LP curve based on the 78rpm eq curve with the same name. Most of the great recordings of the stereo era (after 1954) were also produced in mono and used to make the mono LP’s cut using the FFRR curve.

9.2.9. MGM

The famous entertainment company also produced LP’s during the mono era using her proprietary curve.



32


9.2.10. NAB

NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) was founded by commercial radio companies to address many aspects of their activity. Amongst these, the technical issue related to broadcasting. NAB proposed a phono curve to be used for the records which were made at the time especially for broadcasting, with live and rare recordings of famous artists. The record collector who own these records should use this curve to play them.

9.2.11. Oiseau-Lyre (OYLR)

Before being purchased by Decca, Oiseau-Lyre made many great recordings of classical music.

9.2.12. Pacific Jazz (PACJ)

Jazz was a great business in USA after WWII, so some specialized labels chose to develop their eq curves to press their microgroove LP’s. Pacific Jazz was one of them.

9.2.13. Philips

Of course, Philips, one of the greatest European brands related to music, developed its eq curve.

9.2.14. RCA (RCA1, RCA2 and RCAO)

RCA developed many equalization curves, to be used with her 45rpm’s and, later, for the microgroove LP’s after losing the format war against Columbia, so it’s difficult to say which curve was used for a certain record. The EVO PHONODAC TWO offers three choices, based on record’s year of cutting. RCA1 is the oldest. The newest, RCA Orthophonic, is the one on which the “New Orthopohonic” was developed, thus leading to RIAA.

9.2.15. Brunswick

Brunswick is a very old record company who mainly produced 78rpm’s. The curve offered with the EVO PHONODAC TWO is the one used for the 78rpm’s.

9.2.16. Columbia 1925, Columbia 1938 and Columbia England (CO25, CO38 and COLE)

Columbia was very active cutting 78rpm’s before introducing the microgroove LP. She used different curves in different years: one between 1925 and 1938 and one from 1938 on. Not only: her English branch, Columbia England, developed her own curve for 78rpm’s cut in Great Britain.



33


9.2.17. Decca FFRR 78rpm (DEC)

This is the equalization curve for 78rpm used by Decca, from which the LP FFRR was later developed.

9.2.18. MGM 78rpm (MGM7)

Before cutting LP’s, MGM produced 78rpm’s, which were cut using MGM proprietary curve for 78rpm.

9.2.19. Victor 1938-47 and Victor 1947-52 (VIC3 and VIC4)

Victor is an old company, later purchased by RCA, who produced 78rpm since 1925. The curve adopted between 1925 and 1938 is same as Columbia type 1925 (See 9.2.16), later curves are offered with specific choices.

9.3. Equalizing tapes: why and when

Recording and playback heads used in tape recorders have a frequency response which is strongly non linear and heavily dependent on the magnetic flux in the tape. Moreover, the tape hiss increases with frequency. For this reason, also tapes are equalized. Two equalization standards exist: NAB, mainly used in USA and Japan, and CCIR (later IEC), mainly used in Europe. To make things more complicated, each standard has different curves for different tape speeds, as flux changes with speed. The main difference between records and tapes is that almost no turntable is provided with a built-in phono amplifier/equalizer, while almost all reel-to-reel tape recorders are. Thus, providing tape equalizations could seem to be useless. Not always. Reel-to-reel recorders lovers know that most of the machines around, built between ’60 and the beginning of ’80, have generally great transports and heads but barely adequate, if not poor, electronics. For this reason, some recorders owners ask technicians to jump the playback circuit of the recorder, taking the signal right out of the playback head and feeding a dedicated external amp/equalizer. Same thing can be done with the EVO PHONODAC TWO, connecting the playback head of a tape recorder to its analog inputs (eventually via an impedance adaptor), adjusting the gain as required and selecting the appropriate equalization curve for the tape being played back. The signal is acquired, equalized in digital domain and sent to a computer for recording or to a DAC or digital amplifier for real-time listening. The ample bandwidth of the EVO PHONODAC TWO set to 96, 192 or 384kHz, and its high resolution are more than adequate to accommodate the tape recorder performance. The EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with 4 curves for tapes, 2 for NAB and 2 for CCIR/IEC.



34


9.3.1. CCIR/IEC for 9.5cm/s and 19cm/s (3¾ ips and 7½ ips) and CCIR/IEC for 38cm/s (15 ips) (IEC1 and IEC3)

CCIR (Comité Consultatif International pour la Radio) was an European Committee similar to NAB. They proposed an equalization for reel-to-reel tape recorders which was adopted by most European manufacturers. It has been said by many that the CCIR equalization is better than the NAB one. Anyway, the choice of one or the other standard is only an option when recording, as some tape recorders have both equalizers. For playback, the choice depends on the standard used to record the tape. For the record, all commercial pre-recorded tapes available on eBay or other auction sites are made using NAB.

9.3.2. NAB for 9.5cm/s (3¾ ips) and NAB for 19cm/s (7½ ips)

NAB proposed two equalization curves for tapes, one for 3¾ ips (curve B) and one for 7½ ips (curve A), plus an amendment for 15 ips which, anyway, was suggested to avoid (7½ ips was the preferred speed for tape recorders used in broadcasts). The EVO PHONODAC TWO offers both curve A and curve B.

9.4. Acquiring with equalization

When no equalization curve is used, then the clip indicator turns on right before clipping (that is, when the input signal is equal or higher than the reference level set in the menu). Should the input signal further increase its amplitude, the ADC saturates. User should avoid getting the clip indicator turn on at any time during acquisition. When an equalization curve is used, then the clip indicator may not be consistent with the VU-meter in the recording software, as the latter indicates the signal level downstream the equalization, while the clip indicator works on the signal at conversion level (that is, before the equalization). User should then pay attention to both the clip indicator and the VU-meter in the recording program. As a general rule, ADC clipping may occur when using equalization at a VU meter levels such as -2/-3dB. Clip may be acceptable when it happens from time to time, for very brief time lapses and it’s mostly related to record’s “clicks” and “pops”.

9.5. Interfacing a cartridge or a tape head

The EVO PHONODAC TWO has an input impedance which can be set to any value between 10 Ohms and 50,000 Ohms by means of a knob on the back panel. This value range accommodates virtually every source, from line-level ones (47k-50k), to MM cartridges (47k typically), to medium/high-output MC and moving-flux cartridges (around 15k), to low-output MC cartridges (10 to 2k). Tape heads also may need a specific impedance loading.



35


9.6. Recording programs

When acquiring on a computer with the EVO PHONODAC TWO, a suitable program of application needs to be used. Several different programs of packages are available for Windows, Mac and Linux, some of them are freeware, others need to be purchased. M2Tech cannot be aware of all the available programs, nor specifically recommend any of them, nevertheless some indications are useful for the EVO PHONODAC TWO owner in order to have a glance of the available features and the possibilities offered by the various programs. A free package for Windows is Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/?lang=en) which allows for recording up to 384kHz 24bits (with source packages compiled by the user, otherwise 192kHz will be the limit for executables downloaded by Audacity website) and generates files in WAV, FLAC and other compressed formats. Several options dedicated to the vinyl are available, as automatic tracks cut to divide the acquisition of an LP side into the single tracks, and de-clicking. A much more professional package, Cubase, is sold by Steinberg (http://www.steinberg.net/en/products/cubase/start.html) and can operate up to 192kHz 32bits. Mac users may take advantage from PureVinyl (http://www.channld.com/pure-vinyl.html) by Channel D, as well as from SoundBlade by Sonic Studio (http://www.sonicstudio.com/sonic/products/sonic_productoverview.html). For sure, free apps are available as well. For a very complete list of ripping programs, please check http://www.recordcollectorsguild.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=6&page=1.



36




37


10. Using a Computer as Digital Source and/or Sink Connecting the EVO PHONODAC TWO to a computer via its USB ports needs a few configuration operations by the user. Fortunately, the EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an USB 2.0 interface which is compatible with USB Audio Device Class 2. Therefore, Apple and Linux computers natively support the EVO PHONODAC TWO, that is they do not need a driver and immediately recognize the DDC in a plug’n’play fashion. Conversely, a computer provided with a Microsoft operating system require a suitable driver which can be downloaded from M2Tech website (www.m2tech.biz). Below, the procedures to set a computer for music playback by the EVO PHONODAC TWO are described. Reader are advised that some details in the described procedures may differ depending on the operating system version installed on your computer and the player chosen by the user; the following descriptions are general guidelines to the configuration of computer and player.

10.1. Plug’n’Play Operation with Apple OSX

As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, the EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an USB interface compatible with USB Audio Device Class 2 which is natively supported by Apple OSX since the 10.6.4 release, without the need for any driver: It is sufficient to connect the EVO PHONODAC TWO to own Mac with an USB cable (not in stock) to have it recognized by the Mac, which will then include it in the audio devices list, as shown in Fig. 9. Being a bidirectional audio device, the EVO PHONODAC TWO is listed in both input (M2Tech USB 2.0 Audio In) and output (M2Tech USB 2.0 Audio Out) devices list.



38


Figure 9

To send the computer audio to the EVO PHONODAC TWO it is necessary to select it in the “Sound” window as shown in Fig. 9.

Figure 10



39


It’s possible to set some parameters related to the EVO PHONODAC TWO operation (specifically, the sampling frequency at which the Mac will send audio samples to the DAC) by the MIDI Audio window, as shown in Fig. 10. It is now possible to listen to music by simply selecting the USB input on the EVO PHONODAC TWO and using iTunes. Please note that even when the chosen playlist includes tracks with different sampling frequencies, the EVO PHONODAC TWO will always display one sampling frequency that is the one selected in the MIDI Audio panel (Fig. 15). This implies a real-time resampling feature by the Mac’s operating system which is seldom welcome by the user. In this case, another player should be used which is able to automatically change the above setting, like Amarra, PureMusic and Audirvana. Unlike iTunes, other players need to be properly configured to use the EVO PHONODAC TWO as output device. As an example, Fig. 11 shows the configuration window of Audirvana. Please note it is necessary to choose the EVO PHONODAC TWO as Active Audio Device.

Figure 11

Also please note that amongst the available options are those related to Direct Mode and exclusive access to the resource (“Exclusive Access Mode”). They are peripheral access modes which provide a higher listening quality and which are supported by the EVO PHONODAC TWO. Therefore, we suggest using them whenever possible.

10.1.1. DSD files playback with Mac

The EVO PHONODAC TWO is able to transfer music files recorded with the DSD format. A player able to send DSD data to the EVO PHONODAC TWO in a standard format handled by the DAC must be used. As an example, the configuration of Audirvana necessary for DSD files playback is shown in Fig. 12.



40


Figure 12

10.2. Plug’n’Play Operation with Linux

As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, the EVO PHONODAC TWO is provided with an USB interface compatible with USB Audio device Class 2 which is natively supported by Linux with ALSA since its 1.0.24 release. NOTE: given the vast availability of different Linux distributions, often heavily customized, it may be necessary to check that both kernel and ALSA versions are suitable for native USB Audio Device Class support. When in doubt, ask the creator of your Linux distribution for more information. As with Apple OSX, with Linux it is necessary to choose the EVO PHONODAC TWO as the output device. This can be done accessing the audio management window and setting the various parameters as shown in Fig. 13 which shows Ubuntu’s audio configuration windows. Ubuntu is one of the most successful Linux distributions. Other distributions may differ in the number and kind of available parameters. The window displayed in the figure lists two M2Tech audio devices: they are actually the same device that is the EVO PHONODAC TWO, it is therefore sufficient to select any one to choose the EVO PHONODAC TWO as the output audio device. By setting the EVO PHONODAC TWO as predefined audio output device, we make it available to all those apps which rely on the operating system to transport audio. This is mandatory to listen to streaming music by a browser, for example. This operation mode already allows for high quality playback (sampling frequency up to 192kHz). It also could be desirable to use a player which doesn’t rely on the operating system to transport audio, in order to overcome its limits (for example, to listen to audio file samples at 352.8kHz or DSD audio files).



41


Figure 13

Depending on the chosen player, it is necessary to configure it to use the EVO PHONODAC TWO. Obviously, each player has its configuration parameters. As an example, the configuration panel of Audacious, a widely used player, is shown in Fig. 14.

Figure 14



42


10.2.1. DSD files playback with Linux

The availability of DSD audio files is quite recent, therefore it’s possible that your player is not able to play DSD files, or maybe its most current release it is, but not the one you have installed on your computer. For example, MPD player, by far the most used under Linux, only supports DSD since its 0.17 release. Be sure that your player supports DSD and refer to the instructions provided by the player creator, or install a player which you’re sure supports DSD.

10.3. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO with Windows

As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, no Microsoft operating system natively supports USB Audio Device Class 2. To listen to music files with the EVO PHONODAC TWO connected to a computer running Windows it is therefore necessary to install a driver. The following paragraph describes the driver installation procedure. NOTE: Installation procedure’s details may vary depending on the version of the operating system installed on your computer. This description is meant to be accurate with regards to the fundamental steps necessary to its successful completion. NOTE: The EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO is designed to implement the HID interface for remote control of the player running on a computer attached by USB (see chapter 9). This could lead to compatibility problems with Windows XP. We strongly suggest updating the operating system to a more recent version than Windows XP before installing the driver.

10.3.1. Installing the Windows driver

First, it is necessary to download the driver from the M2Tech website at (http://www.m2tech.biz/it/evoPhonoDAC.html) Here you’ll find the compressed folder containing all installation files. It’s a self-extracting file: automatic extraction is launched by double-clocking on its icon, as shown in Fig. 15.

Figure 15



43


NOTE: files are extracted in the folder displayed in the window, usually the desktop. For a better handling of the installation operation, we suggest to create a temporary folder and extract files into it, or into a folder you may want to keep. In this case, just designate a new folder and direct the extraction process to that folder. A window showing the extraction process appears for a while. When extraction is complete, the application finishes automatically. In case of errors during extraction, a diagnostic window is shown instead (Fig. 16), which remains open to show error messages. After reading messages, close the application by clicking on the “close button”.

Figure 16

Once the files are extracted, open the temporary folder or the folder you have designated and run the setup application by double-clicking on “setup.exe” (Fig. 17).



44


Figure 17

Once setup is launched, the window shown in Fig. 18 appears.

Figure 18



45


NOTE: It may happen that the operating systems shows a warning window first, stating that the setup application will modify the operating system. Close the warning window by clocking on the “OK” button to let the setup program free to proceed. It may be that an older version of the M2Tech driver is already installed in your PC. In this case, the installer will ask you permission to uninstall it with the windows in Fig. 19.

Figure 19

Click on “Next” to accept and proceed with the driver installation. The installer will prompt for the destination folder for the driver files, proposing a default one. If you have no reason to choose a specific folder, then just keep the one proposed by the installer and click on “Install” (Fig. 20). Installation progress will be indicated in a new window by a progress bar (Fig. 21).



46


Figure 20

Figure 21



47


At the end of installation, the windows will show the complete list of installed files and will enable the buttons located in the lower right angle of the window border, as shown in Fig. 22.

Figure 22

As suggested by the instructions, click on the “Next” button to confirm the installation. The final setup window will appear as shown in Fig. 23.



48


Figure 23

Click on the “Finish” button to close setup: The driver installation is now complete. NOTE: Some Windows versions require a reboot to enable the driver just installed: Fig. 24 shows the dialog window for Windows 7.

Figure 24

Installation success can be checked by looking for the big “M2” icon in the peripheral section of Windows bar or in the active peripherals window, depending on operating system version. NOTE: With some Windows versions (e.g. Windows XP, which we strongly suggest that you don’t use), the driver installation procedure does NOT complete with setup end. In fact, at first connection, the operating system will recognize a new USB device (the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO, of course) and will begin a search for the best driver (which is the one just installed) to create an instantiation associated to the



49


specific port to which the DAC is attached. Should this happen, reject the option of internet search for the driver files and proceed with automatic installation: the Windows wizard will then search amongst the drivers already installed, will locate the right one and proceed to the end of the association process. At this point only, will the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO be correctly recognized and can be used to listen to music files.

10.3.2. Windows driver uninstall

The installer takes care of uninstalling the old driver versions. Anyway, it may be necessary to uninstall the EVO PHONODAC TWO driver for various reasons. It is possible to start uninstall in two different ways: Using the applications installation utility from the Control Panel or directly launching the uninstaller that can be found in the driver folder on the hard disk. The same application is actually used in both cases; the choice is up to user’s preference. When launching the Windows’ applications installation utility from the Control Panel, the window shown in Fig. 25 appears, this also lists EVO PHONODAC TWO driver.

Figure 25

By double-clicking “USB Audio Driver for M2Tech…” the uninstall application is launched, which shows itself like in Fig. 26.



50


Figure 26

It’s sufficient to click on the “Uninstall” button to start uninstall. A windows appears that shows the uninstall progress, like as shown in Fig. 27.

Figure 27



51


At uninstall completion, the window will show the entire list of deleted files and will enable the buttons located to the lower right corner of the window border, as shown in Fig. 28.

Figure 28

Click on the “Next” button to confirm uninstall completion and to close the uninstall utility. One last window will appear as shown in Fig. 29. .



52


Figure 29

Clock on the “Finish” button to close the application. At this point if the user launched uninstall from the Control Panel, it is possible to verify that the driver has really been uninstalled by checking for its absence from the applications list, as shown in Fig. 30.



53


Figure 30

NOTE: Even after uninstall, depending on the Windows version used, it is possible that the system may require a reboot to update its configuration.

10.3.3. Windows Driver Panel

Together with the EVO PHONODAC TWO driver, a comprehensive management panel is installed, which runs in background and allows user to optimize the driver operation. The panel can be restored in the foreground by clicking on the big “M2” icon present in the right part of the Windows bar or in the peripherals window, depending on the operating system version installed on your computer. When the EVO PHONODAC TWO or any other M2Tech device is not connected to the computer, the window shown in Fig. 31 will appear. Conversely, when the EVO PHONODAC TWO is connected, then the panel will show some general information about the driver and will exhibit a tree menu as shown in Fig. 32.



54


Figure 31

Figure 32

Of main interest is the driver version, as users may visit the M2Tech website from time to time to check for availability of more recent driver versions and eventually go for an update to download and install (Fig. 33).



55


Figure 33

By clicking on “Buffer Settings” the user accesses the window to set the buffers through which the driver exchanges data with the operating system or directly with the player (Fig. 34). Two drop boxes are present, one for the buffer shared with the operating system and one for an ASIO buffer (which bypasses the operating system and needs a specific setting). As a general rule, a small buffer is to be preferred when low latency is required (e.g. when the EVO PHONODAC TWO is used to listen to a movie’s audio). In any event, a small buffer needs frequent data transfers, which may result in “holes” in the audio stream when the CPU is heavily loaded or when one of the active drivers doesn’t comply with the time specification of the system.

Figure 34

For every device associated to a driver instantiation, a setting window is available.



56


The “Format” tab gives information about the audio format handled by the device (2 channels, various resoutions), as shown in figure 35.

Figure 35

The control panel also sports a volume control, shown in Fig. 36. there are two volume control, one for the computer input and one for the computer output. The XMOS-based system used in the EVO PHONODAC TWO allows for digital volume setting. Anyway, we suggest not to use this feature as its operation will reduce the sonic performance, even more so for low volume settings. It’s important to be aware that, in case of the absence of sound, the total mute in this window may be enabled (one or both “M” buttons pressed).

Figure 36



57


10.3.4. Using the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO as Windows predefined audio device

When using certain players, such as Windows Media Player, or when listening to streaming music from the Internet, it is necessary to set the EVO PHONODAC TWO as the predefined audio output device. To this purpose it is necessary to access the Audio Configuration utility. Following is an example about how to access it in Windows 10. First, open the Settings window (Fig. 37).

Figure 37

Then, search for audio.and choose “Manage Audio Devices” from the list of results, as shown in Fig. 38.



58


Figure 38

By clicking on the item, the Audio management window will pop up, as shown in Fig. 39.

Figure 39



59


Here the user must select “EVO PHONODAC TWO UAC2” as predefined device (as it’s already been done in the case shown in Fig. 39). From that moment on, every sound produced by Windows or any application which relies on Windows to deliver its sound will be sent to the EVO PHONODAC TWO. It is also possible to tell the operating system which sampling frequency and resolution are to be used to operate the EVO PHONODAC TWO. To this purpose, it is sufficient to click on the “Properties” button, thus opening the window shown in Fig. 40.

Figure 40

By accessing the drop-down menu available in the “Advanced” tab it will be possible to choose one of the system’s available configurations. Once a configuration is chosen, the system will automatically convert any audio signal with different sampling frequency and resolution so that the EVO PHONODAC TWO will always work at the sampling frequency and resolution set by the user. Same thing can be done to set the EVO PHONODAC TWO as the predefined audio device for recording. In the “Sound” window, access the “Recording” tab and select the EVO PHONODAC TWO, as shown in Fig. 41.



60


Figure 41

A double click on the item will allow user to access the property window, which allows to set the recording settings for the EVO PHONODAC TWO (Fig. 42).



61


Figure 42

Should the user need the operating system not to process the audio to be sent to the EVO PHONODAC TWO, or when the limits of system settings need to be overcome, it is necessary to use a player able to directly interface to the driver, using a transfer mode like Kernel Streaming, WASAPI or ASIO, all are “bit-perfect” modes as they ensure that no signal changes occur during the transfer from the player to the EVO PHONODAC TWO.

10.3.5. Configuring the player: FooBar and JRiver Media Center

A player able to communicate with the driver without using the operating system usually delivers better performance with respect to players which rely on Windows to transport audio. Amongst the problems or limits more often observed when the latter kind of players is used, is the 192kHz limit, the lack of compatibility with DSD and the fact that all various sampling frequencies are always converted to the sampling frequency chosen by the user in the Control Panel. As examples, following are some suggestions to use the EVO PHONODAC TWO with two well-known media players, a free one and a commercial one.



62


The first one is FooBar (www.foobar2000.org). FooBar is able to work in all modes accepted by the EVO PHONODAC TWO: Direct Sound, Kernel Streaming, WASAPI and ASIO. Skipping installation instructions, which are beyond this manual’s scope, we explain how to configure FooBar in ASIO mode, which is the optimal choice for the EVO PHONODAC TWO. Foobar offers ASIO support through the installation of a specific DLL. It must be downloaded from the “Components” section of the FooBar website, from the page http://www.foobar2000.org/components/view/foo_out_asio. NOTE: Unlike many other FooBar DLL’s, which are contained in a zip file and must be manually extracted and copied into the “Components” folder inside FooBar’s root folder, the ASIO file which is downloaded from the FooBar website is an application which automatically installs the DLL in the right folder, without any explicit action by the user. It only needs to be launched by double-clocking its icon. Once the operation above is done, FooBar can be launched to access the configuration windows by typing CTRL+P, or selecting the menu item “Preferences” from the “File” menu. Then, select the sub-menu item “Output”, which should also have a lower menu level called “ASIO”: The window shown in Fig. 43 will appear. Select “ASIO: MUSBAudio ASIO Driver” in the dropdown menu called “Device”. FooBar is then ready to use the EVO PHONODAC TWO as the output device in ASIO mode, to play bit-perfect PCM audio up to 384kHz and 32 bit. It is now necessary to set FooBar for DSD file playback. To this purpose, it is necessary to install another DLL, the one for SACD compatibility, which can be downloaded from the Sourceforge website: http://sourceforge.net/projects/sacddecoder/files/latest/download.



63


Figure 43

The zip file contains two executables, both to be used: one for the installation of the component for the compatibility with SACD ISO files, plus a proxy file to send DSD to a compatible audio device provided with an ASIO compliant driver, like the EVO PHONODAC TWO. After installing DLL and proxy, in the “ASIO” section of “Output” two ASIO objects will appear (Fig. 44): the M2Tech driver and the proxy (“foo_dsd_asio”).



64


Figure 44

Double-click on “foo_dsd_asio” to open the configuration window as shown in Fig. 45.

Figure 45

Configure the parameters as in the figure: FooBar is now ready to send DSD streams from DSD files to the EVO PHONODAC TWO. The second player used as an example is JRiver Media Center (www.jriver.com). JRiver is a commercial player, a “closet” product which is delivered provided with all the needed features to support various audio transfer modes and the various audio formats. As with FooBar, we’ll skip the installation instructions for the player. Access JRiver’s option window and set “ASIO” in the “Audio” section as “Output mode” (Fig. 46).



65


Figure 46

Then, open the window for the configuration of the output mode (“Output mode settings”), which is obviously dedicated to ASIO, and select the “MUSBAudio ASIO Driver”, as shown in Fig. 47.

Figure 47

At this point, JRiver recognizes the capability to handle DSD in DoP (DSD over PCM) format. From the dropdown menu which is selected by clicking on “Bitstreaming”, select “Custom…” as shown in Fig. 48.



66


Figure 48

A window will automatically appear in which the user can manually set the bitstream configuration parameters (Fig. 49). Set parameters as shown in figure.

Figure 49



67


The configuration procedure is almost over: we still need to tell JRiver not to downsample data streams with sampling frequency higher than 192kHz, (An operation which is usually enabled to cope with all those DAC’s, still the vast majority, which can only accept sampling frequencies up to 192kHz). Obviously, this would lead to trouble with DSD128, which is same as a 352.8kHz PCM stream. Therefore, access the “DSP and output” menu and set the parameter related to the processing of files with sampling frequency higher than 192kHz as in Fig. 50.

Figure 50

JRiver configuration is complete and the user can now listen to PCM files up to 384kHz and DSD files up to DSD128.

10.3.6. Connecting the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO to an USB 1.1 port

It is possible to connect the EVO PHONODAC TWO to an USB 1.1 port under Windows. In this case, the driver will scale the DAC’s performance to comply with USB Audio Device Class 1 specifications. When choosing the predefined output device, the name “EVO PHONODAC TWO UAC1” will appear. In such a scenario, the EVO PHONODAC TWO will still be usable, however limited to audio PCM files with sampling frequency up to 96kHz and with no DSD playback.



68




69


11. Updating the EVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWOEVO PHONODAC TWO firmware The user can update the firmware of the EVO PHONODAC TWO straight from her/his Windows PC. To this purpose it is necessary to download the latest firmware from M2Tech website and use the app named "MUSBAudioDfu.exe" which can be found in the "C:\Program Files\M2Tech\M2TECH_USBAudio_Driver" folder (unless the user, during driver installation, has chosen a different destination folder).

Figure 51

Fig. 51 shows the list of files in the folder above, in which the app is highlighted. Once the app is launched, the window in Fig. 52 appears.



70


Figure 52

Click on the “Browse” button to select the f

evo phonodac two user manual pra - m2tech srl....m2tech evo phonodac two dxd-dsd a-to-d and d-to-a...

Documents