Emotiva XDA-2, User Manual

Page: 21 / 30

Page 17
XDA-2
ASRC (asynchronous sample rate converter)
The ASRC is a sophisticated digital processor that re-samples incoming digital audio to
a fixed 96k sample rate controlled by a very low-noise digital clock and, as part of the
conversion process, eliminates virtually all jitter on the incoming signal.
Different source devices and cables generate widely varying amounts of jitter (USB audio
from a computer is notoriously high in jitter). Excessive jitter tends to make music sound
“blurred”, although the effect is somewhat subjective. Changing the sample rate also, in and
of itself, subtly alters the way music sounds. If your source has excessive jitter, engaging
the ASRC will definitely improve the way it sounds; if not, then you may or may not like how
the re-sampling function sounds with a specific piece of music. There is no specific correct
setting, although most people prefer having the ASRC on when using the USB input.
Since the ASRC may only produce an audible improvement in some situations, the
XDA-2 offers you the option of bypassing the ASRC when desired, and choosing which
way you prefer to listen in a given instance. When the ASRC is bypassed, it is out of the
signal path, and the input signal remains at its original sample rate. (This mode is referred
to as “bit-perfect” by some people.) When the ASRC is engaged, the input signal is always
re-sampled to 96k. Each time you press the ASRC button on the remote control, the ASRC
will toggle between On and Bypass (and the VFD will momentarily flash a status message
telling you the current status).
Note: When the ASRC is engaged, the display will still show the original incoming
sample rate (when it displays the sample rate) rather than the re-sampled (96k)
sample rate.
Note: The ASRC Bypass button takes effect immediately, and may be operated while
music is playing to determine which way you prefer to listen to a given source.