Use supernait 2 as a power amp (with T +A dac 8)
Posted by: Richard walker on 26 March 2018
Hi. I have just bought a T+A Dac 9 and it sounds great. It seems that I can use this as a pre amp. Can anyone tell me.
A Does this make sense
B How, and what kind of cable do I need ?
Thanks
Hi Richard - it can be done but whether you'll like it this way compared to using it in conventional integrated mode will be interesting to find out.
A - Possibly
B - You'll need to run the SN2 in power amp mode by removing the link plug (turn the amp off first and give it a couple of minutes before removing). You'll need a 2x RCA to a suitably wired 4 pin DIN plug to take the L&R RCA outputs from the T+A DAC to the 'Power Amp In' socket on the SN2. Make sure this is wired properly as 24V is available on this socket and you don't want 24V going where it's not wanted !
Power up the SN2. The mute button will flash to indicate that the link plug has been removed. Press and hold the mute button until it extinguishes. The SUPERNAIT 2 is now in power amp mode. Its volume control indicator and button illumination will extinguish. You should be able to use your T+A DAC to control the volume.
James
Not worth it
You could also just connect the T&A DAC via one of the inputs that allows you to select Unity Gain. When UG is selected the volume control of the Supernait is bypassed and so you can control volume of the T&A via its own remote. n.b. Be VERY careful here with the volume of the T&A, as if you turn it down then you'll be amplifying at full gain.
Of course, it may well just be that it sounds best with the Supernait's pre section fully engaged - after all, it's a proper pre-amp section, designed to perfectly match the power amp section, whereas the T&A is likely neither of those things.
Thanks James N. Does the quality of the cable make a difference for solution B?
It will do but the match between the T+A and the SN2 power section is more important and has more of an influence here. I'd go to somewhere like Flashback cables who can make you up a cable to the right spec for a low price and just try it. If you like what it does then by all means explore more expensive options - more expensive doesn't always mean better though.
James
I’ve tried this
it was a waste of money and time