TWO DSPs USING OPTICAL SPLITTER?

[Cee]

I'm going to be using a smartphone as a HU with Foobar2000, might try Poweramp. Offline only from microSD all .flac and .ape files. Through two thunderbolts and a pass-through split charger, the second thunderbolt connects to a SMSL DAC which has a optical out. That optical out to twk 88 in, then rcas out to amps.

I need more channels! 4 more for 12 total. I'm seeing more splitters are being used in both commercial and residential construction where optical is concerned. From what I've read, splitting optical doesn't degrade it's signal. So if I had a second Twk 88 which I do, couldn't I just split the optical from the dac out, and connect optically to both Twk 88s separately, allowing me 16 outs?

Appreciate any input or questions. I know many don't even use DSPs let alone experiment with them. And no, not buying a Helix ultra 12. I love the JL software anyway and I doubt I'll find a cheaper solution.

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[RobGMN Premium Member]

I'm going to be using a smartphone as a HU with Foobar2000, might try Poweramp. Offline only from microSD all .flac and .ape files. Through two thunderbolts and a pass-through split charger, the second thunderbolt connects to a SMSL DAC which has a optical out. That optical out to twk 88 in, then rcas out to amps.

I need more channels! 4 more for 12 total. I'm seeing more splitters are being used in both commercial and residential construction where optical is concerned. From what I've read, splitting optical doesn't degrade it's signal. So if I had a second Twk 88 which I do, couldn't I just split the optical from the dac out, and connect optically to both Twk 88s separately, allowing me 16 outs?

Appreciate any input or questions. I know many don't even use DSPs let alone experiment with them. And no, not buying a Helix ultra 12. I love the JL software anyway and I doubt I'll find a cheaper solution.

Splitting an optical signal CAN degrade signal strength and quality, but in a small setup, you'll probably be fine. It really is one of those "try and see" moments though, as optical can be finicky. If your signal is on the edge, splitting may be just enough to cause a problem, or worse, an INTERMITTENT problem.

I'd go amplified if I were trying it, just as a best practice.

I had a problem with my home system that I swore was my preamplifier. After a LOT of troubleshooting (testing every component BUT the optical cable), it turned out that the cable to my outboard DAC (which had never been moved or damaged in any way) simply would no longer work.
Swapped it out with one that I did a quick Toslink DIY on, and it was all good.

 

[Cee]

Splitting an optical signal CAN degrade signal strength and quality, but in a small setup, you'll probably be fine. It really is one of those "try and see" moments though, as optical can be finicky. If your signal is on the edge, splitting may be just enough to cause a problem, or worse, an INTERMITTENT problem.

I'd go amplified if I were trying it, just as a best practice.

I had a problem with my home system that I swore was my preamplifier. After a LOT of troubleshooting (testing every component BUT the optical cable), it turned out that the cable to my outboard DAC (which had never been moved or damaged in any way) simply would no longer work.
Swapped it out with one that I did a quick Toslink DIY on, and it was all good.

Thank you Rob.

I will be experimenting with it soon and post results.

Being I tested numerous brands of optical cables with home audio over the years. Expensive and cheap, glass and plastic, 20 foot and 6 foot. And have been unable to notice any audio quality difference other than better connectors on some specific brands, I'll assume splitting doesn't degrade signal much or at all. Especially running under 10 feet and routing as straight as possible.

I guess we'll find out.

 

[spokey9 5,000+ posts]

I paid $600 after shipping for 12 channels of dsp

https://www.minidsp.com/products/car-audio-dsp/c-dsp-8x12

 

[Cee]

I paid $600 after shipping for 12 channels of dsp

https://www.minidsp.com/products/car-audio-dsp/c-dsp-8x12

My sub amp is just a skar mono d. It does have 2 channels of preouts for daisy chaining but Im not adding more subs im adding in 4 more channels for midbass which will run different frequencies than the subs therefore that amps preouts are worthless to me as from what I understand you have to run the same specs on the amp connected to the sub amp preouts as the sub amp itself. If I'm wrong school me but I don't think I am.

As for minidsp I avoid them because IMO their software sucks, same with AudioControl, and I have an extra Twk 88. Both were unused display/dealer items that I got for $599, was going to sell extra to friend but he delayed his new install. One can also find them returned/refurbished for $379 each.