can i use the Marantz PM 5004 with PC?

[ShutterX]

hi folks, just had a small doubt. i have a decent collection of FLAC music on PC and am planning to buy a PM5004 from the hifimart. just wanted to ask how i would connect it to the PC for best results.

does it have Optical in (havent seen it in the pics on the marantz site)?

ive got a Xonar DX presently (might shift to the Essence ST if i go for this setup)

as far as speakers are concerned, ive shortlisted the KEF Q300 and the PSB Image B6

what say?

 

[ruenigma]

The 5004 is an amplifier and has no digital audio inputs. You will have to use the DAC of your Xonar.

The Xonar DX has a decent DAC on-board and you can use a 3.5mm TRS -> RCA L R cable to feed the 5004. The essence is definitely a big jump and I'd suggest make the jump if you could afford. However to start with the DX should be good enough.

I recently heard the KEF Q300 paired with a 5004. Honestly I was not too happy with the combination. The synergy left a lot to be desired. So make sure you listen to the combo before making the jump.

Any specific reason you are looking only at Q300 and B6?

 

[marsilians]

If you intend to use the Xonar then you wont be getting the full benefit of the Marantz. I would say invest in an amp with digital input and get the Xonar out of the way or use it solely.

 

[ruenigma]

If you intend to use the Xonar then you wont be getting the full benefit of the Marantz.

Err why would that be? The Xonar has a fairly decent output stage for desktop use. As I type this I am sourcing a pair of Image B4s with my Xonar.

I would say invest in an amp with digital input and get the Xonar out of the way or use it solely.

And which amp would that be? A receiver? Do you imply that an amp with Digital inputs (at the price point of PM5004) would be better than the 5004?

 

[ShutterX]

Any specific reason you are looking only at Q300 and B6?

honestly, the main reason is because ive heard it. its very balanced and precise. but i also listen to lot of electronic. found the B6 to be very strong in low end and energetic out. hence my interest.

had i the choice, would like the klipsh rf 62 too... but my budget is somewhere around the price of the Q300.

If you intend to use the Xonar then you wont be getting the full benefit of the Marantz. I would say invest in an amp with digital input and get the Xonar out of the way or use it solely.

point noted. so DAC on good amp is better than Xonar DAC. any suggestions? budget around 20-25k for integrated amp.

cheers

 

[iaudio]

ShutterX, though I do not fully agree with what Marsillians has said, here is a product which meets your requirements.

NuForce Dia Digital Input Amplifier

 

[spirovious]

Xonar outputs a decent sound via analog out.I can say that I use stereo out of D2X for music.One should use correct driver with low latency(I use unixonar 1.41v).
You can use PC remote to control volume.
http://www.hifivision.com/audio-video-accessories/7209-pc-remote-review.html
http://www.hifivision.com/audio-video-accessories/7209-pc-remote-review-2.html

 

[ShutterX]

ShutterX, though I do not fully agree with what Marsillians has said, here is a product which meets your requirements.

NuForce Dia Digital Input Amplifier

i see. will have to check out few reviews. the product definitely looks interesting.

thanks