My goal is an "all in one" source and amplifier, as compact as possible to fit with a pair of Mirage OMD-5 speakers. The source being Raspberry Pi, IQaudIO Pi-DAC, RuneAudio.
I found this option as well and was wondering if anyone has had any experience or any thoughts on it.
Hypex UcD32MP: https://www.hypexshop.com/DetailServlet?detailID=4928
It appears to me a "motherboard" including integrated mains powered SMPS, with a single UcD32OEM amplifier board installed.
UcD32MP datasheet: http://www.hypex.nl/docs/UcD3xMP_Datasheet.pdf
UcD32OEM datasheet http://www.hypex.nl/docs/UcD32OEM_datasheet.pdf
The benefits to this amplifier to me are
- Mains powered, so no external power supply required
- Has +/-18V DC power output for the amp module, also available via a jumper connection
- Also has +5V DC power output, could be used to power the Raspberry Pi and Pi-DAC via a switch circuit like http://lowpowerlab.com/atxraspi/
- Still relatively small footprint to fit into a compact case
Of course playing with mains voltage means a lot of extra care required, and it's also more expensive than other options.
I have very limited knowledge of circuits etc, so I have these questions:
1. What is the purpose of the input buffer recommended in the UcD32OEM datasheet and is it required?
2. What would be a good/affordable/simple buffer that would suit?
3. Would it be wise to run the input buffer off the +/-18V DC provided on the main board?
3. Would the hardware volume control of the Pi-DAC be a sufficient way to adjust the final output volume?
Any input or guidance will be greatly appreciated!
