How to Bypass the Internal DAC in an Integrated Amplifier: The Yamaha a-S701 as an Example

As an audio enthusiast, you might encounter situations where you want to optimize your sound system by bypassing the internal DAC of your integrated amplifier. This guide will demonstrate how to achieve this with the Yamaha a-S701 integrated amplifier. While the process might vary depending on your specific equipment, the concepts discussed here should be applicable to most integrated amplifiers.

Understanding the Internal DAC

The internal Digital-Analog Converter (DAC) in an integrated amplifier is responsible for converting digital audio signals into analog signals that can be processed and amplified for sound output. However, in some cases, an external DAC might provide better audio quality and additional features. If you are using the Yamaha a-S701, you can bypass its internal DAC and utilize an external DAC for enhanced audio performance.

Why Bypass the Internal DAC?

There are several reasons why you might want to bypass the internal DAC:

Better Audio Quality: High-quality external DACs often offer superior conversion quality, leading to clearer and more accurate sound reproduction. Advanced Features: Some external DACs feature advanced noise reduction, data interpolation, and multi-channel support. Flexibility: External DACs provide more flexibility when it comes to connecting different digital audio sources and sources like streaming services and network players.

How to Bypass the Internal DAC in the Yamaha a-S701

The Yamaha a-S701 has optical and coaxial digital inputs that bypass the internal DAC when used. However, to achieve this, you need to connect an external DAC to one of these digital outputs and then to one of the analog inputs of the Yamaha a-S701. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Connect an External DAC to the Digital Output of the Amplifier

1. Unplug your existing digital audio source (e.g., a computer, streaming device) from the optical or coaxial digital input of the Yamaha a-S701.

2. Plug this source into the digital output (again, optical or coaxial) of the external DAC.

Step 2: Connect the External DAC to an Analog Input of the Amplifier

1. Disconnect the old digital connection from the amplifier.

2. Connect the analog output of the external DAC to an analog input of the Yamaha a-S701 (RCA or 3.5mm). Most integrated amplifiers have multiple analog inputs, so you can experiment with which one provides the best sound quality for your setup.

Step 3: Enjoy High-Quality Audio

With the external DAC bypassing the internal DAC, you should now experience improved audio quality. The digital signal is now converted to analog at the external DAC and then processed by the amplifier, which can have a significant impact on overall sound quality.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Audio Performance

When bypassing the internal DAC in your integrated amplifier, consider these additional tips to further enhance your audio experience:

Use High-Quality Cables: Choose high-quality digital and analog cables to ensure minimal noise and interference in the signal flow. Optimize Cable Length: Ideally, keep cable lengths as short as possible to reduce signal degradation. Test Different Connections: Experiment with different digital inputs on the amplifier and different settings on the external DAC to find the best combination for your setup. Check for Firmware Updates: Ensure that both the amplifier and the external DAC have the latest firmware updates for the best performance and compatibility.

Conclusion

Bypassing the internal DAC in your integrated amplifier can significantly enhance your listening experience. While the Yamaha a-S701 is a specific example, the general process is often similar for many other integrated amplifiers. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to enjoy high-quality audio by harnessing the full potential of your music equipment.