peachtree audio preDAC Preamplifier and Digital-to-Analog Converter User Manual

Peachtree audio preDAC Preamplifier and Digital-to-Analog Converter

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Read these instructions – All the safety and operating instructions should be read before this product is operated.

• Keep these instructions – The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
• Heed all warnings – All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water – The appliance should not be used near water or moisture – for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool, and the like.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.M Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way such as the power cord or plug is damaged. Other damage may occur if liquid or objects have been dropped or spilled into the apparatus. Dropping the apparatus, exposure to rain, and excessive moisture may cause additional damage.
• Please keep the unit in a good ventilation environment.

CAUTION

• These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so.

WARNING

• To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall not be placed on the apparatus.

• The mains plug/appliance coupler is used as a disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

• To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover (or back), as there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

• The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

• No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

• Batteries are included for the remote control. Do not expose these batteries to direct sunlight or excessive heat such as a fire. Care should be taken in the act of battery disposal as they include toxic materials that may harm the environment. Please refer to your local recycling and hazardous waste center for advice on battery disposal The terminals marked with the symbol of “+/-” may be of sufficient
  magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock. The external wiring connected to the terminals requires installation by an instructed person or the use of ready-made insulated leads or cords.

• Correct disposal of this product. This marking indicates that this product should not be disposed of with other household wastes throughout the EU. To prevent possible harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources. To return your used device, please use the return and collection systems or contact the retailer where the product was purchased. They can take this product for environmentally safe recycling.

Unpacking and Warranty

• Please keep all packing materials for any potential shipping needs.
• Please keep a copy of the sales receipt and note the serial number on it for warranty and insurance purposes.
• Please register your product online at www.peachtreeaudio.com.
• The lightning flash with an arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of non-insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.

Made For

1. iPhone 11 Pro
2. iPad Pro 10.5-inch

Legal Notice

Use of the Made for Apple badge means that an accessory has been designed to connect specifically to the Apple product(s) identified in the badge and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with an Apple product may affect wireless performance.

Trademark Notice

Apple, iPad Pro, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Marking by the “CE” symbol (shown left) indicates compliance of this device with the EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and LVD (Low Voltage Directive) standards of the European Community. Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

INTRODUCTION

1. Thank you for choosing Peachtree Audio! Please take the time to read this manual and visit www.peachtreeaudio.com to register your product. Your information will not be shared with anyone and we will only contact you with news that is specifically relevant to your purchase! If you have additional questions or feedback please contact your reseller or Peachtree Audio directly. The preDAC (short for preamplifier/Digital-to-Analog Converter) is designed to integrate a wide range of audio input sources including; phonograph, personal computer, Apple iOS device, streamer and other audio devices and drive a separate power amplifier like the Peachtree Audio amp500.
2. All Peachtree Audio products share a form follows function design philosophy with an emphasis on ease of use and sound quality. Other than the on/ standby button, the entire user interface is built around the concept of simply pressing a button to determine what you are listening to and turning a knob to determine how loud you are listening to it. Thats it! Inside, the preDAC is designed to provide the purest audio path between the input and the outputs. Analog inputs remain analog all of the way through the product to ensure that the original input signal is not altered or degraded in any significant way. All digital inputs are converted to analog internally utilizing ultra-premium quality digital-to-analog converters (DACs) so that they benefit from the best sound quality available today!
3. Each function of the preDAC has been specifically designed to provide the highest level of musicality and the lowest amount of noise regardless of the input source or the listening method. Each individual function provides a listening experience that compares favorably with dedicated audio components that perform a single function and often cost more than the entire preDAC! The preDAC includes eight (four for the left channel and 4 for the right channel) 32-bit/384kHz DACs that are capable of accepting all of the major file formats currently available today including PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to 5.6MHz. This includes compressed audio, uncompressed audio, high-resolution audio and ultra-high resolution audio. Built around the DACs is an extensive, multi-point, regulated power supply that keeps them operating optimally and faithful to the input signal, providing the most natural sounding and musical experience available today. By utilizing four DACs per channel, the noise floor is pushed further away from the music allowing it to come through with an unprecedented level of transparency.
4. The preDAC has very flexible input and configuration capability. It accepts input from a computer, digital audio devices, analog audio devices, iOS devices and even has a built-in phono preamplifier for connecting a turntable. The two analog inputs are user-configurable as: 2 standard analog inputs, a Home Theater Bypass (HTB) input + an analog input, an analog input + a phono input, or a HTB input + a phono input. Your system, your choice! The digital inputs include a user selectable feature called volume control bypass that allows you to control overall system volume directly from your source device – bypassing the volume control in the Peachtree. This is especially useful if you enjoy using an application on your computer or mobile device to select your music AND to control the volume. There is also a LOOP feature that allows an external processor or recorder to be integrated with the Peachtree and switched in and out of the signal path by simply pressing the LOOP button on the front panel or remote control! In addition, the preDAC takes sound quality to an even higher level by utilizing fully differential (aka balanced) circuitry. This allows the stunning sound quality of the DAC and preamplifier sections to be sent to the power amplifier and on to your speakers. The musical transparency of the preDAC is best we have ever made and compares favorably to products costing much, much more! The headphone amplifier was specifically designed for the preDAC. It is a fully-discrete power amplifier circuit that easily drives the majority of headphones including high-impedance designs. Like the rest of the product, it is designed for musicality and an ultra-low noise floor. When compared to dedicated headphone amplifiers, the built-in headphone amplifier represents an amazing value.
5. We sincerely hope that you love your pre DAC
6. and that it brings you many years of enjoyment. The team poured their heart and soul into every detail and we hope you enjoy using it as much as we enjoyed creating it. Thank you again for choosing Peachtree Audio and happy listening!

⁃ The Team at Peachtree Audio

BACK PANEL

• Power ON/OFF Switch  Connects and disconnects AC INPUT to the unit when the power cord is connected between the AC INPUT and a 100-240VAC 50/60Hz AC outlet.

• AC INPUT & Fuse Holder For connection to a 100-240VAC 50/60Hz AC outlet using the included power cord. The fuse can be replaced after turning the POWER switch OFF and removing the power cord from the AC INPUT. See the SPECIFICATIONS section for the specific fuse values required for each pre DAC model. Caution: using an improper fuse value may cause damage to the unit. Peachtree Audio accepts no responsibility for any damage caused by the use of improper fuse values.

• IR INPUT  Accepts 3.5mm input from an Infra-Red (IR) repeater/distribution system. Insert one end of a 3.5mm cable into this port and connect the other end to the output of the IR repeater/distribution system. This input allows IR commands to control the unit when the IR window on the front panel is not in the “line of sight” of the remote control. This is common when the pre-DAC is located in an enclosed cabinet or a different room. Please contact us if you need more technical details regarding the IR protocol. Note: To enable the rear panel IR input connector and disable the front panel IR receiver, press the current input button 10 times in succession until the standby LED blinks 3 times. To disable the rear panel IR input connector and enable the front panel IR receiver, repeat the procedure above until the standby LED blinks 2 times.

• 12V TRIGGER OUTPUT  Enables power on/off control of another product with a 12V trigger input. Insert one end of a 3.5mm cable into this output and connect the other end to a 12V trigger input of the product to be controlled. Once connected, both products should power on and off when using the pre DAC on/standby button on the front panel or remote control.

• SERVICE ONLY This is NOT a USB audio input! Reserved for service use. Note: This port may also be used to provide 5V DC to power a USB device that draws up to 5V/500mA (2.5 Watts) of power.

• USB-A INPUT  Accepts digital audio input from compatible mobile devices. Works with; iPhone 11 Pro and iPad Pro 10.5-inch.

• BALANCED PREAMP OUTPUT  Provides analog audio output to connect to an external power amplifier. Note: This output is muted when the mute function is engaged or when headphones are connected to the front panel.

• USB-B INPUT  Accepts digital audio input up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and 5.6MHz DSD from a computer when the USB button is set to USB 2.0 (recommended for all Mac users and Windows users with music files above 96kHz or DSD). Accepts digital audio input up to 96kHz from a computer when the USB button is set to USB 1.0 (recommended for all Windows users with music files that do NOT exceed 96kHz or DSD). Windows users note: For playback of files above 96kHz, Windows requires installation of the USB 2.0 driver on your PC before it will be compatible with the USB 2.0 setting. Please visit https://www.peachtreeaudio. com/pages/usb-drivers-and-firmware to download the latest version.

• USB 2.0/1.0 Button  Toggles the USB-B input between USB 2.0 and USB 1.0 compatibility. All Mac users should set this to USB 2.0 (in). Windows PC users should set this to USB 1.0 (out) if using music files that do NOT exceed 96kHz. Windows users should set this to USB 2.0 (and must install the Windows USB 2.0 driver) if using any music files that exceed 96kHz. Note: changing the setting while the unit is on will not be active until the unit is cycled through standby mode. It is recommended that the unit be put into standby mode prior to changing this setting.

• COAX INPUT  Accepts S/PDIF digital audio input from a coaxial (RCA style) output up to 192kHz. Coaxial digital audio output is available on many digital audio sources including disc players and some streaming audio devices.

• OPT-1 & OPT-2 INPUT Accepts S/PDIF digital audio input from a optical (Toslink style) output up to 192kHz. Optical digital audio outputs are common on digital audio sources including; streaming audio devices, disc players, cable boxes, and HDTVs.
  LOOP OUTPUT & LOOP INPUT This is a loop feature (similar to a processor or tape monitor loop) with an output and input that are tied together to allow an audio processing device to be inserted into the signal path. The loop is active when the button on the front panel is lit blue. Please note that when the loop is active, the audio signal from the preDAC is output on the LOOP OUTPUT connectors and the audio signal output from the connected device is looped back into the LOOP INPUT connectors on the preDAC. Improper wiring or use of this feature may result in no audio when the loop is engaged. When the loop is disengaged, the circuit is completely bypassed to shorten the audio signal path and minimize potential interference.

• PREAMP OUTPUT  Provides analog audio output to connect to a powered subwoofer or an external power amplifier. Note: This output is muted when the mute function is engaged or when headphones are connected to the front panel. O AUX-1/HTB INPUT: Accepts line-level input from an analog audio (RCA style) source. Also, accepts line-level analog audio output from a Surround Sound Processer (SSP) or Audio/Video Receiver (AVR) when set to Home Theater Bypass (HTB). Please see the Home Theater Bypass instructions elsewhere in this manual for more detail.

• AUX-2/PHONO INPUT Accepts line-level input from an analog audio (RCA style) source. Also, accepts analog audio output from a phonograph/turntable with a Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge. Please note that when using a phonograph/ turntable with a Moving Coil (MC) cartridge, this input should be set to AUX-2 and an external phono preamp designed specifically for Moving Coil cartridges used.

• GROUND  Accepts the ground connection from a connected phonograph/turntable.

FRONT PANEL

• On/Standby Button  With the AC power cord connected and the rear panel POWER switch set to ON, this button toggles the unit between On mode (which selects the last input used) and Standby mode which lights the LED red.

• USB-B Button This button selects the USB-B input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the pre DAC is completely bypassed when using the volume control bypass mode!

• USB-A Button  This button selects the USB-A input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed when using the volume control bypass mode!

• COAX Button  This button selects the COAX input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed when using the volume control bypass mode!

• OPT-1 & OPT-2 Button These buttons select the OPT-1 and OPT-2 inputs and light the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed when using the volume control bypass mode!
  AUX-1/HTB Button  This button selects the AUX-1 input and lights the LED blue (or green if the Home Theater Bypass mode is engaged – please see the Home Theater Bypass instructions on page 16 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the Home Theater Bypass mode!
  IR Receiver: Window for receiving Infra-Red (IR) commands from the included remote control or third-party remote control systems. Note: The preDAC also includes an IR input on the rear panel for receiving wired IR commands from thirdparty remote control systems.

• AUX-2/PHONO Button  This button selects the AUX-2 input and lights the LED blue (or green if the PHONO input mode is engaged). PHONO input mode is designed to integrate the preDAC with a Moving Magnet (MM) phonograph/ turntable. Note: When in PHONO input mode, the input has additional gain and equalization settings applied that are specifically designed for MM cartridges. Please note that when using a phonograph/turntable with a Moving Coil (MC) cartridge, this input should be set to AUX-2 and an external phono preamp designed specifically for Moving Coil cartridges used. Press and hold this button for ~10 seconds to activate the PHONO (green LED) input mode. Press and hold this button for ~5 seconds to deactivate the PHONO input mode (blue LED).

• LOOP Button  This button engages (lit blue) and disengages (off) the LOOP OUTPUT/INPUT on the rear panel.

• VOLUME Knob  Rotate clockwise to increase and counter-clockwise to decrease output level. Press to toggle mute on and off. Note: the volume level will be indicated for ~2 seconds using the 8 blue input LEDS on the front panel. Each one represents ~12.5% of the volume range. Note: the currently selected blue or green input LED will flash slowly while the unit is muted. Whenever the preDAC is making output level changes automatically, the input LEDs will blink. The blinking stops when the preDAC reaches the correct output level. This occurs when mute is disengaged, volume control bypass is selected and or home theater bypass is selected. This is to minimize the chance of sudden, unexpected output level changes. Headphone Output: 1/4” headphone output connection. Inserting a headphone connection automatically mutes the RIGHT & LEFT Speaker and PREAMP OUTPUTS. Removing a headphone connection automatically un-mutes the RIGHT & LEFT Speaker and PREAMP OUTPUTS. Caution: Please lower the output level when inserting or removing headphone connections as headphone sensitivity varies widely and a comfortable speaker listening level may be extremely loud when switching to headphones.

• Note To enable the rear panel IR input connector and disable the front panel IR receiver, press the current input button 10 times in succession until the standby LED blinks 3 times. To disable the rear panel IR input connector and enable the front panel IR receiver, repeat the procedure above until the standby LED blinks 2 times.

REMOTE CONTROL

• On/Standby Button With the AC power cord connected and the rear panel POWER switch set to ON, this button toggles the unit between On mode (which selects the last input used) and Standby mode which lights the LED red. Note: it takes ~2 seconds for the unit to fully transition from standby to on mode. During this time, any commands will not be acknowledged. C Mute Button: Mutes and un-mutes the RIGHT & LEFT Speaker, PREAMP, and headphone (front panel) outputs. Note: the currently selected blue or green input LED will flash slowly while the unit is muted. D Volume +/-: Increases and decreases the output level. Note: the volume level will be indicated for ~2 seconds using the 8 blue input LEDs on the front panel. Note: the currently selected blue or green input LED will flash slowly while the unit is muted. Whenever the preDAC is making output level changes automatically, the input LEDs will blink. The blinking stops when the preDAC reaches the correct output level. This occurs when mute is disengaged, volume control bypass is selected and or home theater bypass is selected. This is to minimize the chance of sudden, unexpected output level changes.
• DIM Button Dims the front panel LED brightness. Note: the brightness will continually cycle through all of the available settings: maximum, high, medium, low, maximum, high…
• Asterisk Button  Adjusts the LED brightness of the optional Bluesound NODE 2i audio-streaming device. Transport Control Buttons: Controls playback of compatible devices connected to a USB input (USB-A for iOS devices and USB-B for personal computers).  selects the previous track or the beginning of the current track if playback is in progress. toggles between play mode and pause mode. selects the next song in the current track queue or list. Please note that some USB-capable devices and applications may not support these controls. This is not a malfunction of the remote control. If the USB device does not respond to these commands, it is because the connected device or application does not support them. Bluesound NODE 2i users: You can learn these IR commands into the BluOS application so they will control the Bluesound NODE 2i.
• USB-B Button This button selects the USB-B input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the volume control bypass mode!
• USB-A Button This button selects the USB-A input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the volume control bypass mode!
• COAX Button This button selects the COAX input and lights the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the volume control bypass mode!
• OPT-1 & OPT-2 Button These buttons select the OPT-1 and OPT-2 inputs and light the LED blue (or green if the volume bypass mode is engaged – please see the volume control bypass instructions on page 17 for more details). Caution: the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the volume control bypass mode!
• AUX-1/HTB Button This button selects the AUX-1 input and lights the LED blue (or green if the Home Theater Bypass mode is engaged – please see the Home Theater Bypass instructions on page 16 for more details). Caution the volume control in the preDAC is completely bypassed in the Home Theater Bypass mode! M AUX-2/PHONO Button: This button selects the AUX-2 input and lights the LED blue (or green if the PHONO input mode is engaged). PHONO input mode is designed to integrate the preDAC with a Moving Magnet (MM) phonograph/ turntable. Note: When in PHONO input mode, the input has additional gain and equalization settings applied that are specifically designed for MM cartridges. Please note that when using a phonograph/turntable with a Moving Coil (MC) cartridge, this input should be set to AUX-2 and an external phono preamp designed specifically for Moving Coil cartridges used. Press and hold this button for ~10 seconds to activate the PHONO (green LED) input mode. Press and hold this button for ~5 seconds to deactivate the PHONO input mode (blue LED).
• LOOP Button  Engages and disengages the LOOP OUTPUT/LOOP INPUT. Note: The LOOP Button LED on the front panel is lit blue whenever the loop is engaged. O PRESET Buttons 1-8: These buttons select PRESETS 1-8 in the optional Bluesound NODE 2i.

HOME THEATER BYPASS INPUT MODE

The preDAC includes a Home Theater Bypass (HTB) input mode that is designed to integrate with a “surround-sound” system to utilize the amplifier connected to the preDAC to power the front left and right speakers for all sources. When AUX-1 is set to HTB input mode, the signal passes from the front left and right analog outputs of the Surround- Sound Processor (SSP) or Audio-Video Receiver (AVR) to the preDAC + power amplifier and the speakers connected to it. This allows the preDAC + power amplifier to be enjoyed as an “audio-only” system with the sources connected to it and to also be utilized at the preamp

• amp when playing video sources connected to your SSP or AVR. When this input is set to HTB input mode, the LED is lit green – indicating that the preDAC’s volume control is bypassed and the volume control in the SSP or AVR must be used to control the overall system volume level. When this input is set to AUX-1, the LED is lit blue – indicating that the preDAC’s built-in volume control is in the signal path and should be used to control overall volume level of the source connected to this input.

To set up Home Theater Bypass:

1. Turn off the Surround-Sound Processor (SSP) or Audio-Video Receiver (AVR) and the preDAC and the power amplifier.
2. Connect the front LEFT and RIGHT preamp output from the SSP or AVR to the AUX-1/HTB input on the preDAC.
3. Turn on the preDAC and the power amplifier and select the AUX-1/HTB input.
4. Press and hold the AUX-1/HTB button for ~5 seconds to engage the HTB input mode, indicated by the input LED turning green.
5. Turn on your SSP or AVR and calibrate its speaker output levels with the HTB input on the preDAC selected. This will ensure that the relative output levels of all the speakers are maintained when watching video sources.
6. When listening to sources connected to your SSP or AVR, simply select the AUX-1/ HTB input on the preDAC. When listening to any other sources connected to the preDAC, simply press the corresponding input button on the preDAC
7. when the preDAC is in HTB input mode, the SSP or AVR is in complete control of the overall system volume level. If extra care is not taken, significant damage to the speakers or power amplifier may occur. Peachtree Audio does not accept any responsibility for damage caused by improper setup or use of this feature.

Connect Line-level (RCA style) front left and right outputs from the SSP or AVR to the AUX-1/HTB input on the pre DAC.

VOLUME CONTROL BYPASSES INPUT MODE

The pre DAC includes a Volume Control Bypass (VCB) input mode that removes the built-in output level control from the signal path. This is useful when using digital sources that have their own volume control built in that you prefer to use for convenience. When an input is selected, the LED will light blue if VCB mode is disengaged (the builtin volume control is in the signal path) or green if VCB mode is engaged (the volume control in the source device must be used).

To set up Volume Control Bypass mode:

1. Make sure the connected device is set to a low volume level!
2. Press and hold the desired input button for ~5 seconds to engage the VCB input mode, indicated by the input LED turning green. Note: repeat this step to disengage the VCB input mode, indicated by the input LED turning blue. VCB input mode disengaged is the factory default setting.
3. The Volume Control Bypass feature is not available on the AUX-2/PHONO input.
4. Pressing and holding the AUX-2/PHONO input for ~10 seconds activates the PHONO (green LED) input mode. Pressing and holding this button for ~5 seconds deactivates the PHONO input mode (blue LED).. This feature is unique to the AUX-2/PHONO input.
5. when the preDAC is in VCB input mode, the source device is in complete control of the output level sent to the power amplifier and speakers. If extra care is not taken, significant damage to the speakers or power amplifier may occur. Peachtree Audio does not accept any responsibility for damage caused by improper setup or use of this feature.

LOOP FEATURE

LOOP OUTPUT & LOOP INPUT

This is a loop feature (similar to a processor or tape monitor loop) with an output and input that are tied together to allow an audio processing device to be inserted into the signal path of the currently selected input. The loop is active when the LOOP Button LED on the front panel is lit blue. The loop is engaged and disengaged using the LOOP button on the front panel or remote control. Please note that when the loop is active, the audio signal from the preDAC is output on the LOOP OUTPUT connectors and the audio signal output from the connected device is looped back into the LOOP INPUT connectors on the preDAC. Improper wiring or use of this feature may result in no audio when the loop is engaged. When the loop is disengaged, the circuit is completely bypassed to shorten the audio signal path and minimize potential interference.

To set up Loop Feature mode:

1. Turn off the preDAC and the device to be connected.
2. Connect the LOOP OUTPUT connections on the preDAC to the input connections on the external processing device.
3. Connect the output connections on the external processing device to the LOOP INPUT connections on the preDAC.
4. Turn on the preDAC and the connected device.
5. Press the LOOP button on the front panel or remote control to engage (LED lit blue) and disengage (LED off) the connected device from the signal path.

USEFUL TIPS

At Peachtree Audio we believe all products should be easy to use, but sometimes getting the audio to stream out of a computer’s USB port requires a few extra steps. See instructions below. Some minor changes may occur with Windows or Apple OS updates, but the basics are usually the same.

USB Connections

Windows PC

• Connect the USB-B input on the preDAC to an open USB port on your computer.
• Your computer should “recognize” the preDAC as a USB device. You might even get a pop-up window notifying you.
• Right click the speaker icon on your screen.
• Select the “AUDIO” tab.
• Using the drop-down menu, choose the Peachtree Audio option.
• Click “OK.”
• You will need to install the included USB 2.0 driver for playback of music files that exceed 96kHz when using a Windows PC.
• Launch your music application and enjoy!
• Mac
• Open System Preferences.
• Click on Sound.
• In the output tab you should see Peachtree as one of the choices.
  Select it.

Launch iTunes or other music application and enjoy!

Once you set up your computer using the instructions above, it should automatically recognize the preDAC each time you use it. If you unplug the USB connection or reboot your computer, you may have to repeat some of the steps above. This is typical. Other useful tips…

For the best sound when listening to music from your computer, set your computer and music program volume controls to maximum and use the preDAC volume knob or remote control as the master volume control. For critical listening to music from your computer, avoid keeping multiple programs open. It can compromise the sound quality and even cause signal dropouts. Provide adequate ventilation above the preDAC so it can “breathe.” Please check www.peachtreeaudio.com periodically for additional tips and articles.

Interested in the Green Movement?

• The preDAC meets European RoHS standards for non-hazardous metals
• The preDAC draws less than half a watt of power in standby mode
• We are committed to continue exploring additional methods for making our products even more environmentally friendly

TROUBLESHOOTING

The preDAC will not power on

| Check that the power switch on the back panel is on. If it is, the on/standby LED on the front panel LED should

be lit red. Check that the AC outlet is

functioning correctly  by  plugging  in a lamp or other device to confirm its operation.

The preDAC powers on, but there is no sound

| Check that the preDAC is not muted (blinking input LED) or headphones connected to the front panel (preamp outputs muted). Be sure your power amplifier and input source are powered on and playing at a reasonable volume

level. Disengage the loop function to see if that resolves the issue. Double- check the connections on the rear panel. Ensure any attached power

amplifier(s) are switched on

The remote control does not work

| Check the remote control batteries by removing the cover on the back try- ing new ones. Make sure the remote control has a clear “line of sight” to the sensor on the front panel. Check that no powerful light sources, like direct sunlight, is interfering with the sensor on the front panel.

The USB signal from a computer is intermittent

| Try re-launching the music application (iTunes, etc.). If the computer doesn’t recognize the  preDAC,  unplug  the USB cable from the computer and

the preDAC, wait a few seconds,

then reconnect the USB cable. Try

re-starting the computer. The preDAC is designed to remain locked on USB signals at all times, but computers drop connections occasionally and require prompts to re-connect.

There is hum/noise when using a computer

| If you have music files available on a laptop computer, play them while running the computer on

its battery power only. If the hum/ noise disappears, then the ground connection on the computer’s AC adapter is introducing a “ground loop” into the system. This is not unusual, but the USB input on the preDAC is designed to minimize the potential. If the issue persists, please contact your reseller or Peachtree Audio.

There is a “click” or “pop” when using the front panel controls.

| Sometimes static buildup on your hand will discharge into the unit when

touched and cause an audible click or pop noise. This is normal and happens

The connected streaming device (including the Bluesound NODE 2i) makes popping sounds or other audio bursts when the sample rate changes in a playlist.

| Hold down the desired digital audio input button on the front panel (COAX, OPT-1, or OPT-2) when bringing the unit out of standby. Whichever button is being held down, that’s input’s dropout prevention option will toggle between ON and OFF.

The standby LED will flash a certain number of times to indicate that input’s current state:

6  flashes for OFF; used for most players and TV sets.

7  flashes for ON; used for Bluesound

and others. (Use this mode if the

attached streaming device has noise during sample rate changes).

NOTE: it will show the state for the button that was held down, not necessarily the current input

(eg. if you were last on COAX input, but held down the OPT-1 button coming out standby, the flashing will show the state for the OPT-1, even though the current input is COAX).

---|---

If there is a random loss of audio, accompanied by a click sound inside the preDAC and switching sources restores audio.

| To disable the “power failure mute” feature (firmware version 1.9 and above), press and hold the volume control knob in for ~15 seconds, until the standby LED blinks 5 times.

This is useful in some instances where electrical interference on the AC Mains causes random unexpected loss of audio. Pressing and holding the knob in for ~15 seconds again reverts to the factory default mode (4 blinks).

Note that disabling the “power failure mute” can cause noise in the

speakers if AC mains power suddenly is removed (when a power failure occurs for example). You can find the latest firmware update at https://www .

peachtreeaudio.com/support/usb-drivers.

html.

WARRANTY AND REPAIR

International Warranty

Peachtree Audio warrants this product for two (2) years, parts and labor, from the original date of purchase from an authorized Peachtree Audio re-seller. If you register your product online at https://www.peachtreeaudio.com/pages /product-registration the warranty is extended to three (3) years, parts and labor. Peachtree Audio reserves the right to refuse any warranty claims if coverage cannot be verified by a valid proof of sale or serial number. Peachtree Audio assumes no responsibility for product failures caused by accident, neglect, misuse, modification or unauthorized repair. Warranty does not cover shipping costs. Visit www.peachtreeaudio.com for complete warranty details.

Repair Process

In the event that a product fails, please repack it in its original carton and contact an authorized Peachtree reseller for further instructions. If the reseller is unable to assist, please contact Peachtree Audio directly at [email protected] or +1-704- 391-9337 to obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number prior to shipping the product. Any products received without an RA number may be misdirected and repair delayed. If a RA number is issued by Peachtree Audio, please ship the product using FedEx or UPS. Do not ship using a Postal Service. Peachtree Audio assumes no responsibility for products in transit. Please ensure the shipment for the product’s replacement value in the unlikely event it is lost, stolen, or damaged in transit.
www.peachtreeaudio.com

SPECIFICATIONS

PREAMP OUTPUT

HEADPHONE OUTPUT

Output Power (32Ω, rms | peak)| 1200mW | 2770mW
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Output Power (300Ω, rms | peak)| 330mW | 700mW
Output Power (600Ω, rms | peak)| 170mW | 350mW
Output Impedance| 1Ω
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Analog | Digital Source, un-weighted)| 107dB | 106dB
Dynamic Range (Analog | Digital Source, un-weighted)| 107dB | 100dB
Channel Separation (1kHz)| >100dB at 1kHz
Frequency Response (Digital source, 8Hz-20kHz)| <0.5dB
Frequency Response (Analog source, 8Hz-100kHz)| <0.1dB
Total Harmonic Distortion| 0.003% (2V RMS, 1kHz, un-weighted)

USB-B Input

2.8224-5.6448MHz DSD

COAX and OPT Inputs

AUX Inputs

Maximum Voltage (RMS | peak-to-peak)| 3.5V | 10V
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Impedance| 100kΩ

Phono Input

Loop Output and Input

Maximum Voltage (RMS | peak-to-peak)| 3.5V | 10V
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Impedance (input | output)| 100kΩ | 100Ω

AC Power

Fuse

| ****

100-120VAC: 800 mA/250V

Medium Acting

220-240VAC: 400 mA/250V

Medium Acting

References

• Peachtree Audio | High Performance Amplifiers
• Product Registration– Peachtree Audio

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