Emotiva DIFFERENTIAL REFERENCE XDA 1 User Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS  
Safety Precautions  
5
7
7
NEC (National Electrical Code) Standards  
A Note for the Cable Television (CATV) Installer  
Antenna Grounding Outside the House  
Thank You for Your XDA-1 Purchase  
8
8
Emotiva XDA-1 Differential Reference DAC  
High Quality 192khz DAC with USB Audio Interface  
Unpacking the XDA-1  
Inventory  
9
9
XDA-1 Front Panel Layout  
XDA-1 Rear Panel Layout  
10  
11  
XDA-1 Remote  
12  
12  
Changing the Battery  
Connecting To Audio Source Units  
Trigger Connections  
13  
13  
Troubleshooting Guide  
14  
14  
14  
No Sound (from one or more full range speakers)  
No Sound from the AES/EBU Input  
No Sound from the USB Input  
No Sound from the Optical Input  
No Audio from the Coax input  
14  
14  
14  
Remote Not Working  
14  
15  
15  
Remotely Connected External Amplifier(s) Do Not Turn Off with USP-1  
"Hum" Noises  
3
Other Probable Cause of Noise  
15  
16  
XDA-1 Technical Specifications  
Emotiva Disclosure  
Limited Warranty  
17  
18  
Front Panel Diagram (Full Page)  
Back Panel Diagram (Full Page)  
19  
20  
4
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
Read this User's Guide thoroughly before attempting to install and configure the XDA-1 DAC. All the safety and  
operation instructions should be read before any operation of the component(s) begin. After successful  
installation and configuration of the XDA-1 DAC, be sure to retain this manual in a safe place for any future  
reference needs.  
All warnings on the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier and in these operating instructions should be followed. Safety is a  
key component to a long lasting and trouble free installation. The vast majority of the subsequent safety  
precautions involve simple common sense. If you are not comfortable with the installation of audio/video  
entertainment equipment, it will be to your benefit to seek the services of a qualified installation professional.  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should NEVER be used near water such as a bathtub, washbowl,  
kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool etc.  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should be situated so that its location or installation position does not  
interfere with proper ventilation.  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar surface that may  
block any ventilation openings; or placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase, cabinet, or closed  
equipment rack that may impeded the flow of air through ventilation openings. If installed in a closed  
equipment rack for custom installations, be sure to add forced air ventilation so that it has adequate air  
circulation.  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, or any  
other devices which produce heat.  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in  
this User's Guide and what is labeled on the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC Preamplifier component. Power supply  
cords should be routed to that they are not in high foot traffic areas or pinched by item placed upon or against  
them, paying particular attention to cords at the wall plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they  
connect into the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC. The power cord for the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should be  
unplugged from the outlet when unused for a long period of time.  
When it's time for cleaning the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier, it should be cleaned only as recommended in  
this User's Guide. Never spray liquids directly into the component's vent openings. Care should be taken so  
that small objects do not fall into the inside of the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier.  
The following situations require that your Emotiva XDA-1 DAC Preamplifier be serviced only by qualified  
service personnel:  
1. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or  
2. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the component; or  
3. The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier has been exposed to rain; or  
4. The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in  
performance; or  
5. The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier has been dropped, or its enclosure or chassis is damaged.  
The user should not attempt to service the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier beyond the means described in this User's  
Guide. All other servicing should be referred to Emotiva.  
5
To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet  
unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.  
Grounding or Polarization - Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of the  
component is not defeated.  
For questions regarding service, please contact:  
Emotiva Audio Corporation  
135 SE Parkway Court  
Franklin, TN 37064  
Tel - (615) 790-6754 | (877) EMO-TECH | Fax - (615) 791-6287  
WARNING - TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO  
RAIN OR MOISTURE.  
CAUTION - TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY  
INSERT.  
6
NEC (National Electrical Code) Standards  
A Note for the Cable Television (CATV) Installer  
This reminder is to call the CATV system installer's attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that provides  
guidelines for proper grounding and in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the  
grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.  
Antenna Grounding Outside the House  
If an outside antenna is connected to the receiver, be sure the antenna system is grounded so as to provide  
some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code,  
ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna-  
discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.  
Cable TV Coaxial Cable, Satellite Dish Cables and Television Antennas should be grounded BEFORE the  
point of entry into the house.  
Always observe proper antenna or satellite dish grounding techniques. When lightning strikes there is always  
the possibility that your antenna or dish (mounted high on the roof) can become a conduit for lightning and  
electrically damage any equipment to which it is connected. Additionally, proper grounding offers safety to the  
people using the audio/video system in the event of an electrical problem.  
7
Thank you for your XDA-1 purchase!  
Dear Music Enthusiast,  
Thank you for purchasing the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier. We sincerely believe that it offers you  
stunning achievement in sonic performance. Designed around the acclaimed Analog Devices AD1955 DAC  
operating in a fully differential mode, its differential output is then coupled to a digitally controlled volume  
control stage. The output of this stage then drives our fully discrete, cross coupled, Differential Reference™  
balanced line amp stage. The result is breathtaking.  
In addition to being a state of the art 24Bit/192kHz DAC, the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier can operate as a digital  
preamplifier and source selector in a digitally based reference level audio system. Inputs for up to six digital  
sources including AES/EBU, USB, Coax, and Toslink are available. The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier incorporates  
a VFD display for volume, input select, and system status messages. In addition, it is supplied with a milled  
aluminum remote control for convenient operation.  
Emotiva XDA-1 DIFFERENTIAL REFERENCE DAC  
Audiophile 24 bit/192 kHz DAC preamplifier with USB Audio interface Features  
Two coaxial inputs  
Two optical inputs  
One USB Audio interface input  
One AES/EBU input  
Full remote control operation  
Gold plated discrete RCA connectors for unbalanced stereo audio output  
XLR connectors for Balanced Analog stereo Audio output  
Illuminated input indicators (Halo Backlit)  
5-12V trigger input  
12V trigger output  
IEC power inlet, 120/230 VAC auto configurable  
8
UNPACKING THE XDA-1  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier should reach you in flawless condition. If you notice any shipping  
damage or other issues upon unpacking the unit, please contact Emotiva immediately.  
INVENTORY  
Contained in the box is the Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier, the remote control and an IEC standard power  
cord.  
Gently lift out the unit and remove all the packaging material and accessories. The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier is  
a delicate instrument so please unpack it carefully to avoid unnecessary damage to the unit. It is important to  
save all the packing materials and the boxes in case your XDA-1 ever needs to be moved or shipped back to  
the factory for service.  
9
XDA-1 Front Panel Layout  
(for larger image, see page 21)  
1. MUTE Button  
The MUTE button mutes the sound. Press it down once to mute the sound, and the display window will display “MUTE.”  
Press it down again and the sound will return to its previous volume.  
2. Volume UP Button: Raises the volume of your XDA-1  
3. Volume DOWN Button: Lowers the volume of your XDA-1  
4. PANEL DIM Button  
The DIM button dims the display lights on your XDA-1.It has 5 settings that allow you to adjust the brightness to your liking  
or turn the display lights off completely.  
5. Soft Touch Power switch  
This turns the XDA-1 on or off. It is a non–latching momentary button. When pushed EMOTIVA will appear next with  
XDA-1 then the volume level in the display window. The unit will then return to the previously set input and volume levels  
before it was powered off.  
6. IR receiver  
Point the remote at this window for operation of the XDA-1 by remote.  
7. Display Window  
This multi-purpose window will display all necessary information such as volume, selected input etc.  
8. AES/EBU Source Selection Button  
Selects the AES/EBU input source.  
9. OPT1 Source Selection Button  
Selects the optical input connected to OPT.1.  
10. OPT2 Source Selection Button  
Selects the optical input source connected to OPT.2.  
11. COAX 1 (CO. 1) Source Selection button  
Selects the coax input source connected to CO .1.  
12. COAX 2 (CO. 2) Source Selection Button  
Selects the input source connected to CO.2.  
13. USB Source Selection Button  
Selects the USB source connected to the USB input.  
10  
14. Input Indicator LEDs  
LEDs above each selectable button illuminate when the labeled function is engaged. When receiving commands, the  
COM/RECV LED illuminates as well.  
XDA-1 Rear Panel Layout  
(for larger image, see page 22)  
1. LINE AUDIO OUTPUTS Section (from left to right)  
XLR RIGHT OUTPUT  
XLR LEFT OUTPUT  
RCA LEFT OUTPUT  
RCA RIGHT OUTPUT  
2. DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS Section (from left to right)  
AES/EBU  
CO.1  
CO.2  
OPT.1  
OPT.2  
USB.  
3. TRIGGER IN/OUT  
3.1 TRIGGER INPUT  
Allows a mono to mono 3.5mm cable to remotely trigger the XDA-1 on and off. Current is limited to 500ma  
3.2 TRIGGER OUTPUT  
Allows a mono to mono 3.5mm cable to remotely trigger another device on and off, along with the XDA-1.  
Current is limited to 500mA, which is sufficient to trigger two devices. For triggering more devices, you may  
want to use a separate triggering device, like the Emotiva ET-3.  
4. Main Power Switch  
This rocker switch provides the master power for the XDA-1. After it is in the ON position, the XDA-1 can be  
turned on manually from the front panel switch, remote control, or automatically with the trigger input via a  
3.5mm input jack.  
5. Power Receptacle  
Uses standard IEC power cord.  
11  
XDA-1 Remote  
The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier has a dedicated remote control that  
offers discrete buttons for most of the critical XDA-1 controls.  
Power Buttons  
ON Button  
Discrete button to turn the XDA-1 on as indicated  
STANDBY Button  
Discrete button to put the XDA-1 in standby mode  
Volume Controls  
Applies continuous increase (UP) or decrease (DOWN) in volume  
levels while buttons are held down.  
Input Selection Buttons  
These discrete buttons select the various source inputs of the  
XDA-1. LED’s on the front panel of the XDA-1 will illuminate with  
the selected input  
AES/EBU - selects AES/EBU input as source  
OPT1 - selects OPT1 input as source  
OPT2 - selects OPT2 input as source  
CO.1 - selects CO.1 input as source  
CO.2 - selects CO.2 input as source  
USB - selects USB input as source  
Dim Button  
Varies the display intensity in 5 steps.  
Mute Button  
Mutes the sound when pressed. Press again to un-mute. The display window will show mute status  
Changing the Battery  
The XDA-1 remote is powered by 2 AAA batteries. To add fresh batteries, you must remove the 6 screws (use  
a no. 2 flat tip Phillips screwdriver), remove the aluminum back cover, exchange the batteries and orient the  
negative and positive ends as indicated by the images in the battery compartment. Emotiva recommends  
using alkaline batteries.  
Note: In order to minimize the potential for damage to the screws holding the back cover, use only a number 2  
Phillips screwdriver!  
12  
Connecting Audio Source Units  
The XDA-1 DAC preamplifier can connect to up to six different audio devices, using standard XLR connector  
for the AES/EBU input, standard RCA analog connectors for coaxial inputs, Toslink connectors for optical  
inputs and USB type B to A connector for USB input .  
AES/EBU  
Connects to an AES/EBU source using XLR cables.  
OPTICAL (OPT1 & OPT2)  
Connects to an optical S/PDIF source using a Toslink optical cable.  
COAXIAL (CO.1 &CO.2)  
Connects to a S/PDIF source using a 75 ohm coaxial RCA cable.  
USB  
Connects to a USB audio interface using a standard USB type B to A cable. After the connection is made the  
operating system detects it as a new hardware device. Modern operation systems like Windows XP, Vista,  
Windows 7, Mac OS and Linux detect the hardware directly and install the correct USB audio automatically.  
Note: Do not exceed 2 meters in cable length. Cable quality is critical to ensure reliable operation.  
Audio Applications  
Under Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 the XDA-1 can be selected as an audio output device  
under Control Panel > Hardware and Sound> Sound.  
Under Mac OS X, you can select and configure the XDA-1 via the MIDI Setup application that can be found in  
your application folder.  
The XDA-1DAC preamplifier is a playback device and can replace your on board soundcard fully for all stereo  
playback functions.  
Connecting To Amplifiers and Speakers  
When connecting to amplifiers and speakers, make sure to use the properly labeled left and right channel  
connections.  
Check to make sure that you have connected the proper cables in the proper sequence.  
DIFFERENTIAL (BALANCED) OUTPUTS  
Left and right channel XDA-1 line balanced outputs into either the left and right balanced inputs of your  
amplifier or preamp.  
UNBALANCED OUTPUTS  
Left and right channel XDA-1 line RCA outputs into either the left and right balanced inputs of your amplifier or  
preamp.  
Note: For highest performance and noise immunity, always use high quality, 100% shielded cables.  
TRIGGER CONNECTIONS  
5-12VDC trigger input and output are used to remotely trigger the XDA-1 or a connected device on and off.  
Please ensure that the total of the loads connected to this trigger do not exceed 500mA.  
13  
Troubleshooting Guide  
The Emotiva XDA-1 DAC preamplifier is expertly designed and built to provide years of trouble-free service.  
Most problems that occur can usually be solved by checking your connections or making sure that the audio  
components connected to the XDA-1 are on and fully operational. The following information will help you deal  
with common problems you may experience during initial use of your unit. If problems persist, contact  
Emotiva’s service department for assistance.  
No Sound (from one or more full range speakers)  
Speaker cables may have come undone from the amplifier. Turn off your system and check the  
speaker cables, and tighten the binding posts.  
Audio output cables that connect XDA-1 to the amplifier(s) may not have a good connection. Turn off  
your system and check all audio cable connections.  
An audio cable may have an internal break. Switch cable with a different channel to see if the problem  
migrates to a different channel or stays in the affected channel(s).  
The correct input is not currently selected.  
The mute switch is on.  
Switch to a different source and see if audio is present  
No Sound from the AES/EBU Input  
Make sure that the AES/EBU cable is not damaged.  
Make sure that the AES/EBU source is outputting sound properly  
Make sure that the XDA-1’s AES/EBU input is selected.  
No Sound from the USB Input  
Make sure that the USB cable is not damaged.  
Make sure that the XDA drivers are properly installed.  
Make sure that the XDA-1 is selected as the output device in your PC.  
No Sound from the Optical Input  
Make sure that the OPTICAL cables are not damaged.  
Make sure that the source device is working properly and outputting audio properly  
Switch to a different Optical input to make sure there is audio present.  
No Audio from the Coax input  
Make sure that the coax cable is not damaged.  
Make sure that the source device is working properly and outputting audio properly  
Switch to a different coax input to make sure there is audio present.  
Remote Control Not Working  
Make sure the AAA batteries are not dead or installed incorrectly.  
Make sure that the XDA-1 front panel receiver window is not obstructed.  
Make sure to remove the cardboard insulator from in between the batteries.  
14  
Remotely Connected External Amplifier(s) Do Not Turn Off with XDA-1  
Check the following:  
Make sure the 1/8” plug (3.5mm) is connected between the XDA-1 trigger output and the amplifier(s)  
trigger input(s).  
Make sure the total consumption of the connected devices do not exceed 500mA  
If you have spliced the plug to one or more amplifier turn on inputs, remember the center pin is positive  
and the outer shield is negative. This output is 5 to 12VDC.  
IMPORTANT: Make sure the trigger cable is a mono (2 conductor), not a stereo (3 conductor).  
“Hum” Noises  
This problem is more than likely caused by a “ground loop” in your system, rather than a fault in the  
XDA-1. Follow these steps to isolate the main cause of the hum; there may even be more than one.  
Remember to turn off all components in your system (including the XDA-1) before disconnecting or  
connecting any cables.  
Disconnect the following items in order, and check each time if the hum has gone away:  
Disconnect all cables which come from outside the room, such as cable TV, satellite TV, or roof top  
antennas. Make sure that they are disconnected where they first enter the room, so they are making no  
connection to the XDA-1, the TV, or any other component. If the hum is caused by the cable TV line,  
you will need a “ground loop isolator.” This is an inexpensive device fitted in-line with the coaxial cable  
feed. Contact your cable company or Emotiva for assistance.  
Disconnect any component which has a grounded power cord.  
If the hum persists, disconnect all the source components one at a time from the back of the XDA-1  
until you identify the problem. (Ground loop isolators are available for audio lines and video. Ask  
Emotiva for assistance)  
Try moving the speaker cables away from any power cords. Try just one speaker, connecting it to  
different channels and see if an amplifier channel is bad.  
If you are still having a problem, remember that Emotiva’s technical support staff will assist you.  
15  
XDA-1 Technical Specifications  
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 105dB (A-Weighted)  
Frequency Response: 5Hz - 48kHz  
THD+N: 0.001%  
Ground Floor Noise Level: < 15uV  
Nominal Output Voltage: 1V RMS  
Peak Output Voltage: > 12VRMS (balanced)  
Sample Rate: All standard resolutions are supported up to 192kHz  
Bit Depth: Standard bit depths up to 24Bit are supported at clock frequencies up to 192kHz  
Inputs: 2 Optical TOSLINK, 2 COAX Digital, 1 AES/EBU, 1 USB  
Outputs: 2 RCA (Unbalanced), 2 XLR (Balanced)  
Internal Volume Control: Digitally controlled precision attenuator  
Remote Control: Milled aluminum full function remote control  
I/V conversion: Burr Brown OPA-2134  
D/A conversion: high performance, multibit Sigma-Delta AD1955  
Data Directed Scrambling with high jitter immunity, and an 8x Oversampling Digital Filter  
Fully Discrete Differential Reference™ Output Stage with fully independent balanced and unbalanced  
drive stages  
Dimensions:  
17" wide x 2.25" high (1.75" high without feet) x 14" deep  
16  
Licensing and Trademark Disclosures  
Emotiva Disclosure  
© Copyright 2010 Emotiva Audio Corporation  
All Rights Reserved. Emotiva reserves the right to make improvements to its products at any time. Therefore,  
the specifications of the product and the specific details of this manual are subject to change or modification.  
Emotiva and the Emotiva "E" are registered trademarks of Emotiva Audio Corporation.  
17  
Limited Warranty  
Emotiva is proud to design and manufacture quality products for the home audio and home theater enthusiast.  
Your XDA-1 Stereo Preamplifier has been built to perform flawlessly for many years. As a result of this quality  
and craftsmanship, Emotiva offers the following warranty to owners of the XDA-1.  
Emotiva Audio warrants the XDA-1 to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of FIVE  
YEARS from the original date of purchase. The following items are excluded from, or will void this warranty:  
1) Damage to the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier caused during shipment and handling.  
2) Damage to the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier caused by accident, misuse, or abusive operation contrary to  
the instructions specified within this manual.  
3) XDA-1 DAC preamplifier units that have had the serial numbers defaced, modified, or removed.  
4) Damage to the XDA-1 DAC preamplifier resulting from a modification of, or attempted repair by any  
person or company not authorized by Emotiva.  
5) Any XDA-1 DAC preamplifier unit purchased from a non-authorized dealer.  
6) Emotiva does not assume liability for loss of use, or damage to, associated or connected equipment.  
Service Assistance for the USP-1  
Please note that BEFORE sending your XDA-1 in for repair, you MUST call Emotiva and obtain a returned  
material authorization (RMA) number. Before contacting Emotiva to begin the return process, please have as  
detailed a description of the problem(s) you are experiencing and the conditions under which the problem(s)  
occur. Additionally, please be sure to check the troubleshooting guide in this manual to rule out the possibility  
of something simple you may have overlooked. Please remember, this is a complicated product and most  
instances of perceived product failure are the result of improper set up or operation. Emotiva and its dealers  
will help you ascertain whether you have an operational problem or product defect.  
Once you have obtained the RMA number, you must print this clearly on the outside of the box so it will be  
possible to determine from whom the XDA-1 came once it arrives at Emotiva. Parcels arriving without an RMA  
number will be refused and returned freight collect.  
Please send your repairs with RMA number to:  
Emotiva Audio Corporation  
Attn: Customer Service  
135 SE Parkway Court  
Franklin, TN 37064  
Reference - (Put your RMA number in this spot)  
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