Cascade question: Elegant way to integrate non-MSB headfi amp?

General
1

MSB team,

By any chance is there an ability to add a second pair of analog outputs to the Cascade to drive a non-MSB headphone amplifier? If not, is there a method you would suggest that doesn’t require manual swapping of analog output cables between one’s primary amp and headfi amp?

Thanks,
Blake

1 Like
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Hello Blake!

We do have a recommendation actually. We have used this solution for many a system and the best part is it doesn’t compromise any performance during either system playback.

I will have @Jonathan_Gullman tell you about it. Basically making a manual switcher box.

PS, congratulations on the Cascade! The all black trim is a really killer look.

3

Hello Blake,

The solution that has been used by others in the past is a custom version of this goldpoint switch. We recommend ordering a custom version where the grounds are also switched instead of just the signals. If they won’t do it for you, send me an email and I’ll see if we can’t arrange one for you.

This is the switching box (1 input, 2 outputs):

You don’t want to use a Y cable adapter and “switching” by turning off one device leaving a parasitic load on the output of the Cascade while listening to the other device.

4

Thanks, Daniel! Yes, very excited about the all black trim, and thanks for providing the renderings!

Re the switchbox, I assume that will require another set of expensive audiophile interconnects? Re sonic degradation, my inclination would have been that introducing another device into the signal path could adulterate the signal, but I’m happy to be disabused of that notion!

Thanks,
Blake

5

Thanks, Jonathan. This does seem like an elegant solution. Now for as much as audiophiles anguish over the tiniest details to produce the best sound and spend an inordinate amount of $s to achieve that, should I be concerned that introducing a $400 dollar switch into the signal path could degrade the sound of the Cascade in the slightest?

Much appreciated

6

I haven’t heard any feedback that it hurts the sound, but the only way to know would be to try it. If you get one, please let us all know.

I can’t think of a cleaner solution than this. It has no power or active parts inside so it shouldn’t be able to introduce any noise. The last one I looked at was wired with silver plated quality wire and it’s of course quality gold switches.

7

And at $400, it at least won’t break the bank to try out :slight_smile:

We have lots of good feedback, and technically, this is one of the best solutions you could implement.

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The MSB headphone amps are pretty good too.

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Indeed they are! If I didn’t already own a very good headfi amp, and used it enough to warrant an upgrade, I’d likely own an MSB headphone amp. However, I do wonder whether MSB will be offering a headphone amp designed specifically for the Cascade?

10

Thanks, Daniel and Jonathan. Appreciate your guidance on this. Will keep you posted on my next steps.