Inspire 1394 + Additional Preamps

[Gamiar]

I have the Inspire 1394 and I'm wondering how I'd go about using the Inspire's RCA line inputs with an external preamp. I'm thinking I'd need a preamp that works at -10db and has an unbalanced output, and most likely a TS to RCA cable. But really, I'm not too sure. I'm also curious about the amount of noise I'd experience doing such, with the unbalanced inputs and everything.

Any insight would be appreciated

[ricknaqvi]

We've tested the Inspire with many of our own stereo preamps and they work perfectly. The main thing is to use some quality 1/4" to RCA cables and try to keep the length of the cables below 15' to avoid noise. As long as you are not running super long cable lengths, you should not have any problems with noise.

Here's a 5' cable that would work great for you:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PQR5/

Secondly, a lot of stereo preamps have both balanced and unbalanced outputs. All of our preamps include both types. Some of our preamps like the MP20 and Eureka have 1/4" 'SERVO-BALANCED' outputs. That means that they will work with either a balanced (TRS) or unbalanced (TS) cable.

Lastly, if you are using an external preamp, just make sure that the line input gain is not turned up and the 'PHONO' switch is not engaged.

Hope this helps.

[Gamiar]

Thanks a lot; that answers the question perfectly.

Perhaps you can help me out with this; sometimes if I put my computer (XP SP2) into standby mode, the Inspire doesn't always sync with the computer when I start up the computer again. I can't access any of the Control Pannel buttons (even close/minimize) and end up having to close it through the task manager. However, if I close the Control Pannel and load it back up, it works again. Any insight into this?

Thanks again

[Wesley DeVore]

What kind of Firewire card are you using?

[Gamiar]

What kind of Firewire card are you using?

My SB Audigy card has a Firewire port in it, so I use that.

[Wesley DeVore]

The Audigy cards and their software can sometimes conflict with our products. We recommend a FW400 only card with a Texas Instruments or VIA chipset. (Although Texas Instruments or VIA won't necessary be the manufacturer) Here's a list of recommended cards:

PCI:
Belkin - F5U503 and F5U503V - TI
SIIG - NN2608 - TI
SIIG - NN2603 - TI.

PCMCIA:
CoolDrives - COOL-G-1394-2P - TI
Adaptec - AFW-1430V - TI

Occasionally, using the Service Pack 2 patch (or "hotfix") can eliminate the need to actually remove the Audigy and its drivers. You can download that Microsoft patch here:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/885222 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/885222)

(The patch also helps with pops, clicks, and digital distortion caused by XP Service Pack 2)

[Gamiar]

Alright, thanks again for the help. You guys are great.

[Wesley DeVore]

Any time :)