• Registered: 2020-09-20
  • Posts: 3

Topic: Correct Ref Level paired with A90?

I'm running the ADI-2 FS as just a DAC into the Topping A90 via XLR. I contacted Topping and they said the output input voltage for the A90 is 5-8V.

I set:
Auto Ref Level = Off
Ref Level = +13dBu
VOL = 0

I just wanted to make I did the calculations correct.

Surprisingly, I need to use low gain on the Hifiman Arya (90 dB per 1mW at 35 Ohms) but not sure if that's the A90 or the RME (i was expecting to have to at least use mid gain).

2 Reply by KaiS (edited by KaiS 2020-09-20 23:12:04)

  • KaiS
  • DAW Mastermind
  • Offline
  • From: Germany
  • Registered: 2020-02-05
  • Posts: 3,126

Re: Correct Ref Level paired with A90?

If you send a relative high level (+13dBu = 3.5V) you need a negative overall Gain for reasonable loudness.

If you have the ADI-2 Pro:
+13dBu = 3.5V into 35Ω = 350mW = 115dB SPL from you 'phones.

If you have the ADI-2 DAC the XLR level is twice as high / 6dB higher than the RCA:
+19dB = 7V = 1400mW @ 35Ω = 121dB SPL.


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