Question for Multi-Room Installations!

debussyj

Okay guys-I can see there's a ton of brain power here and I really need help. Here's the scenario. I have a Marantz SR-9200 receiver, complete LSI surrounds with a new SVS cylinder sub. Outside on my deck I have 4-Rockustics speakers. I want to utilize the Multi-room option. But, here's the catch, I have a Mac Mini computer, which only does digital output and not analog and multi room will only work with analog. So I bring in my PS Audio DAC from another setup connect it to the Mac Mini and connect it to the receiver. Voila, it works great outside, but hardly sounds sterling inside because I realize it's probably double processing, via the DAC and what's inside the Marantz receiver. I know I could use the signal direct button on the Marantz for inside play,but that negates use of my SVS sub, which is not a good option. I know I could use the 7.1 input and put a Y connector on the sub, but 7.1 doesn't work for multi-room. I'm planning on getting the Parasound model 2125 amp to power the outside speakers, not a biggie. But I can't figure out how to solve this problem. My only solution so far is to pick up a less expensive DAC (Dacmagic) keep it in the mix seasonally and then disconnect it when I'm not using the outside rig. If you guys have any ideas I would appreciate it. As you can see, I'm "Pulling My Hair Out"! Thanks, DJ

WilliamM2

What type of digital out does the Mac Mini have? Coax or Optical? I would think you could get some type of splitter for the digital output of the Mac. Run one output to the DAC for your outdoor speakers, and the other digital out to a different input on the Marantz for your indoor listening.

pacificoastbear

This might be too simple of a solution but I think the Mac Mini's have a headphone output which is analog in signal when used in the 3.5mm form. What if you try a cable such as this?

debussyj

Hi, The mini has this headphone type output, which can be utilized either with an optical out cable or analog mini jack as pictured. It also has USB, which can be connected to the DAC. The drag is, if I connect the mini via the analog mini jack to the multi-room, then I can't play any music on the mini inside. Unfortunately, the only solution thus far seems to be connecting the mini to a DAC to get that analog output for the multi-room and allow for playing music (although double processed) inside. The advantage of the DAC is that it works like a switch box for different sources. I would even entertain purchasing a separate amp/preamp rig for my outside music, but I don't see how that would solve my problem. Guess I want the best of both worlds too much.

Serendipity

Go with the DacMagic, I hear it's a great DAC.