Unsure whether this is resident knowledge among anyone but the MSB team, however, I am curious to know whether the Cascade preamp does a better job of isolating the analog inputs that are not in use vs the Select II. Reason I ask is that while it may be my imagination, I feel like the sonic quality of my Select II doesn’t sound as good when I have my surround sound processor’s balanced XLR inputs plugged into it when I’m listening to music on the Pro ISL input. I understand that Cascade preamp isolates and lifts the grounds of the analog inputs not in use; however, am curious whether the Select II DAC takes the same approach and any sound degradation is likely my imagination.
It’s my understanding the in the Cascade unselected analog inputs are disconnected and internally shorted to prevent any interference. And from my listening experience I’m sure that is the case.
"Analog inputs include two balanced XLR and two single-ended RCA inputs—essential tools for maximum versatility. The analog inputs are completely disconnected and isolated from the rest of the circuitry when not in use. Even the cable ground is lifted when that input is not currently selected to reduce crosstalk potential. "
I think the Cascade DAC is misnamed, it should be called the Cascade DAC/Preamp because the preamp is an equal partner with the DAC in audio quality and obviously is NOT an after thought to fill a checkbox.
Thanks, Dan. Agree that the Cascade preamp design makes it seem highly unlikely that the components connected to its inactive analog inputs could degrade the sound of the active analog input. I’m just curious to hear whether the same approach to isolating the active analog input was applied in the design of the Select II preamp. If it was, perhaps my ears are playing tricks on me .
@Dan is correct per the website. Everything about the Cascade Preamp is overhauled and improved. One of the key changes vs the Select is a lot more space for layout and isolation between inputs/preamp. Better power supplies… the list goes on. The Select took the same approach technically, but with the Cascade, we were able to go well and above the Selects performance. It is definitely not your imagination and we are glad to hear the improvements are paying off in your system!
because the preamp is an equal partner with the DAC in audio quality and obviously is NOT an after thought to fill a checkbox.
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