Playing Audio¶
The miniDSP SHD Studio has a range of input sources and output connections. This page provides an overview so you can quickly get started with playing audio.
Warning
Ensure all equipment is powered off when making audio connections.
Connecting sources¶
The diagram below illustrates the audio sources that can be connected to the miniDSP SHD Studio.
Connecting an amplifier and speakers¶
The diagram below illustrates a basic connection of a stereo DAC, amplifier and speakers to the miniDSP SHD Studio. Since the default settings of the SHD Studio route the input channels to output channels 1 and 2 with no crossovers active, so no further configuration is needed if you do not need to connect a subwoofer.
Warning
Before playing audio for the first time, turn the volume down using the front panel encoder. Increase it gradually after audio playback starts.
Advanced configuration¶
The miniDSP SHD Studio is a flexible and powerful device that allows many more system configurations than simple stereo playback. For example, with the aid of a second DAC, a powered subwoofer can be connected as shown here:
In this example, the subwoofer is fed from output channel 3 of the SHD Studio, and so is connected to the left channel output of the second DAC.
Additional configurations, such as dual subwoofers and two-way active speakers, are easily achievable with the SHD Studio.
Tip
If the two DACs are not identical, they may have different latencies – that is, their own internal time delays may be different. In most cases, this will be taken care of in the normal course of adjusting the time delay between speakers and subwoofer.
In some relatively uncommon cases, however, the DAC may have a time delay that is too long to be compensated for by the 30 ms provided by the SHD Studio. These DACs typically use custom internal filtering with an FPGA. In some cases, the latency of the DAC may not even be constant. We therefore recommend that you check the specs of your DACs (or ask their manufacturer) to find out this latency.
To use the SHD Studio in these more advanced configurations, you will need to use miniDSP Device Console to set up its audio processing. We recommend that you take the time to read through the remaining sections of this manual and familiarize yourself with its capabilities.
In particular, see the Routing examples section to find an example that is close to your desired application and for links to tutorial-style application notes.
About USB Audio¶
This content has moved to USB audio.