[schalliol]

I noticed that on my Mac Pro I have a few choices for the analog output (using Audio MIDI Setup). CD audio is 16 bit 44.1KHz, but there are of course other sources as well. I can choose for the line out to be a 16 bit, 20 bit or 24 bit depth and 44.1KHz, 48KHz and 96KHz. Of course the analog line output will deliver analog audio, but what effect does changing these settings have? If I choose a higher depth or rate, will it upconvert, etc.?

[analogika]

If you're listening to 44kHz audio, set your output to 44kHz (or 88.2 kHz).

It will convert the sample-rate on the fly if you choose anything else, which costs CPU power AND reduces sound quality.

Bit depth is not a problem - just keep it at 24 bits.

[schalliol]

Interesting, thanks for the thoughts. So, in that case, if you increase the sample rate, it does in fact attempt to upsample even for this analog output?

[ibookuser2]

Yes, the sample rate of what you're playing will be converted to whatever is set in Audio/Midi Setup if it doesn't match. Set it to 44.1 kHz for most stuff, and 48 kHz for video or DVD.

Setting the sample size to 24 bits allows you 8 bits of digital volume control without truncation or loss of precision, if programs are smart.

[schalliol]

Great information, thanks!

[schalliol]

On a side note, I have a Cambridge Audio DacMagic which does upsample to 24/192 so I want to let that DAC upsample instead of the computer.