Owner`s manual

19
Audio Technologies
D/A Converters
Converting digitally stored information (such as
that found on a Compact Disc or DVD) back into
an analog signal is the job of the D/A Converter.
The D/A converter reads each 16-bit word from
the disc and assigns it an analog voltage. A
conventional D/A Converter repeats this task
44,100 times a second.
The accuracy of the D/A Converter in terms
of voltage and timing are a key component to
determining the sound quality capabilities and
noise output of the source unit.
1-Bit
A 1-Bit D/A converter works by comparing one bit
of information to the one previous to it. If the new
bit is higher than the previous one, it increases
the output voltage. If the new bit is lower than the
previous, then it decreases the output voltage. A
filter on the output of the D/A Converter smoothes
out the signal and the result a reproduction of the
original audio waveform.
24-Bit
Clarion source units featuring our 24-Bit D/A
converter bring new realism and detail to your
music. 24-Bit D/A converters offer several
benefits as compared to a conventional 1-Bit
D/A converter. Primarily, a 24-Bit D/A converter
significantly increases dynamic range capability,
reduces quantization error and improves jitter.
The result is music that sounds more realistic,
especially in the high frequency range. Cymbals
become clearer and more detailed. Ambience
and room effects become more accurate. The
entire listening experience takes a step forward in
fidelity and authenticity.
This effect can be clearly heard on even the
most basic of audio systems. Comparing one
source unit to another, even when using four
factory speakers will reveal a very significant
improvement in performance.
Low Impedance Preamp Output
All Clarion preamp outputs feature low output
impedance drive circuitry. Output impedance is
most commonly looked at in terms of a resistance
measurement, in the case of Clarion preamp
outputs, this specification is ~330 Ohms.
This has several effects in terms of sound quality
as compared to products that have high output
impedances (1,000+ Ohms). More of the audio
signal voltage is passed to the load device. The
preamp is capable of driving lower impedance
loads (necessary should RCA Y-cables be used).
The audio signal is less succeptable to frequency
response degradation caused by reactances in the
RCA cables or the input stage of the amplifier or
processor.
Many processors and amplifiers use DC blocking
capacitors on their inputs. When a high-impedance
source unit is connected to these loads, the bass
and treble performance can suffer. Low impedance
outputs result in flatter frequency response and
more output from your amplifiers.
CD Operational Safeguards
Clarion’s CD operational safeguards allow the
CD mechanism to detect disc size, prior disc-
in-drive detection, foreign object detection, and
allow for auto reload.Clarion’s CD mechanism
uses photosensors and LEDs to identify 3" or 5"
compact discs. Clarion’s CD mechanism uses a
tapered roller to precisely center the CD onto the
drive spindle.
A tapered loading-roller precisely centers the CD
onto the drive spindle. Since the roller mechanism
is tapered, only the edges of the CD are touched,
thereby eliminating the possibility of scratches.
These operational safeguards allow safer CD
disc handling, prevent jams from accidental
loading of two CDs, and help to reduce service
problems by detecting foreign objects in the drive
mechanism.