TOPIC:

Hello,
I think I would like to purchase the SHD but I want to use it as a source only with my Marantz AV8802 pre-amp, thus retaining the volume control of the Marantz. I have been wanting to try Dirac for a couple years now but not quite ready to give up my AV8802. My intent is to use the stereo XLR analog outs on the SHD and then use "Pure Direct" on the AV8802. I understand this is possible by fixing the volume on the SHD but I do wish Minidsp would add a "fixed volume" feature like Bluesound streamers. Anyway, my main concern/question is how the Dirac calibration would work in this scenario and whether or not there is any loss of Dirac functionality if not using the SHD as a full fledged pre-amp ? For instance, will Dirac run properly and at the correct volume if using an external pre-amp for volume control ?

stash64 wrote:

Anyway, my main concern/question is how the Dirac calibration would work in this scenario and whether or not there is any loss of Dirac functionality if not using the SHD as a full fledged pre-amp ? For instance, will Dirac run properly and at the correct volume if using an external pre-amp for volume control ?

Yes you can run Dirac OK like this. You set the volume yourself as part of the calibration process.

This is probably obvious but just in case note that the SHD just runs the 2 channel version of Dirac rather than the multichannel version which I believe also handles subwoofer integration.

Thanks Ultrasonic.
Being able to set the calibration volume should do the trick. Audyssey is just pretty much click and go, and moving the mic. I should probably read up on the Dirac calibration process to see what other differences to expect.

Hi, I use the SHD Studio with an integrated amp. First with the SHD volume set at - 10db. As far as I know this can't be set to fixed but you can just leave the volume knob alone. Nowadays I leave the volume of the integrated amp at 2 o'clock and use the the SHD Studio remote for volume. Both work fine.