DACport HD/Slim
Quick Start Guide
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the CEntrance DACport
HD/Slim. You are the proud owner of one of the world’s
highest-performing digital audio devices. DACport’s
precision-engineered audiophile circuitry is designed to
bring your music appreciation to a new level. HD and Slim
operate the same way, so here we will just say "DACport."
Featuring maximum sampling rate performance of
384kHz/32-bit over asynchronous USB connection (HD),
lowest-jitter clocking, and a high-power analog output,
(headphone and line-level), DACport is a portable, yet
flexible device that can upgrade the performance of any
computer audio output. Easily connect to such sources as
Mac and Windows computers (laptops, desktops and
music servers), to provide a variety of ways to create an
audiophile playback system.
CONNECTION
Connection is easy and intuitive. Connect a USB cable
from the computer to your DACport first, and then plug in
the headphones.
DACport HD and DACport Slim use a standard USB A to
Micro USB B cable, the same cable used to charge most
Android phones. This cable is available at computer and
cellphone stores, convenience stores, and online retailers.
SETUP
When setting up the computer, make sure your DACport is
selected as the default audio output device:
- In Windows OS, first download and install the
CEntrance Universal Driver, then plug in the DACport.
Universal Driver will guide you through the installation.
Once installed, it will recognize DACport and show its
picture when it is plugged in.
- In Mac OS, selection should be automatic, but may also
be configured in Audio/MIDI control panel.
GAIN SWITCH
To prevent an unpleasantly high volume, make sure to
initially set the GAIN switch to LOW. This applies to IEM
and other sensitive headphones. DACport's output can get
very loud, so be careful with those ears!
The HIGH GAIN setting is also appropriate when using the
output as a line level output. Turn the volume knob to the
max and leave the gain switch at HIGH. This will configure
the 3.5mm output for line level. You can connect the
3.5mm jack via a cable to any preamp or amplifier.
Distortion is almost non-existent in this setting.
Once you are familiar with the unit, if you require more
level in the headphones, then use the HIGH GAIN
position. Typically, this will be needed with overhead
headphones and those with higher impedance.
We recessed the gain switch to avoid accidental bumping.
A toothpick or a straightened paperclip works well to set
the switch.
Note on USB hubs. We don't recommend them. Some
hubs constrain USB traffic and will be inappropriate for
use with a high-quality digital audio device, such as
DACport. Try to plug your DACport into your computer's
USB jack whenever possible.
TROUBLESHOOTING
In the unlikely event that something is not working well, try
these simple troubleshooting steps first. If this doesn’t
be happy to help you with setup.
Issue Solutions
No sound in
headphones - Make sure headphones are
connected
- Check position of volume knob,
check position of the gain switch
- Make sure digital cables are
connected and the music source
is playing
- If using Windows, make sure
Universal Driver is installed
Sound is too loud - Switch the gain selector to LOW
setting to avoid excessively loud
sounds
For Windows use, please download the Universal Driver
from our website:
www.centrance.com/downloads
(*)CEntrance and DACport are trademarks of CEntrance. All rights reserved.
Other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
(c) CEntrance Inc., 8817 Mango Ave. Morton Grove, IL 60053 USA,
tel: +1-847-581-0500, www.centrance.com QSG Rev 1.2
