The SNR is not an issue if you are using the digital output into a DAC. There is no "fixed level of noise" in this case. Noise is fundamantally an analogue issue... (lets ignore the effect of dithering on the 24th bit)
IMHO there is no discernible difference in quality between using the SB digital volume down to 60-70 (out of 100) versus turning down the analogue volume on the pre-amp/DAC attenuator (assuming it is an analogue one). This is true of all well-implemented 24-bit digital designs (SB, TACT etc). Replaygain doesn't (usually) set more than -10dB of gain so also isn't a problem. Replaygain + digital level set below 70/100 MIGHT JUST be discernible. -- Phil Leigh You want to see the signal path BEFORE it gets onto a CD/vinyl...it ain't what you'd call minimal...SB3+Stontronics PSU - Altmann JISCO/UPCI - TACT RCS 2.2X with Good Vibrations S/W - MF X-DAC V3/X-PSU/X-10 buffer (Audiocomm full mods)- Linn 5103 - Linn Aktiv 5.1 system (6x LK140's, ESPEK/TRIKAN/KATAN/SEIZMIK 10.5), Townsend Supertweeters, Kimber & Chord cables ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Phil Leigh's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=85 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=44989 _______________________________________________ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/lists/listinfo/audiophiles
