I have been using an NAD 3020 amp for 5 years on my Mac Mini 2012 connected to the 3.5 headphone output without an issue. I just bought a new Mac Mini M1, and the output is not working. I connected the cable back to the old mini, and it worked, and also tested the output of the new Mini with my headphones and it worked. Any idea why this is happening?
Thank you!
Mac mini, macOS 11.3
Check your Audi Midi settings to make sure you
are set to a "quality" output configuration.
What macOS version was on the old and what apps are you using
for playback? Maybe try a different app?
You're welcome.
Is this your NAD 3020 amp?
If this is the DAC that you have, then you should be able to connect it directly to the new Mac Mini using a USB cable.
All of the new Mac's (Mac Mini, iMac, MacBook, etc..) with a single headphone output jack, no longer support S/PDIF Optical Digital Output. If you need Optical Digital to your DAC, then you will need to get a USB to S/PDIF adapter.
Thanks for your post.
My old Mac Mini (2012) is on Sierra, and the new one (M1) on Big Sur. I used iTunes before and Music now. My music is in Apple Lossless format, and that is where I notice the difference. If I use YouTube or even Spotify, the difference in quality is not that big. I will probably open another discussion since I received the right answer for my original question here.
Thank you! This makes a lot of sense. I will update you once I buy the adapter.
Yes!, and I have the right cable. I am back with my music! I really appreciate your help!
Fernando
You're welcome.
I notice that the quality of the audio output is better on my old Mac Mini :-(
Yes. I did that and made sure that the settings were the same. I also adjusted the EQ in Music the same it was on my old Mini, but the old one still sounds better.
Thanks again!
Connecting an amp to audio 3.5mm output on Mac Mini M1
