Using Griffin iMic with mini

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Level 1

35 points

Using Griffin iMic with mini

I just installed an iMic on my mini, and right now I'm only using it for audio input, and leaving the output set to the mini's built-in headphones jack. Does anyone know if there is a difference in performance and/or quality when switching audio output to the iMic and letting it handle both? Should I just leave the output assigned to my mini's jack?

Mac mini, Mac OS X (10.4.3), 1.42, 512mb, 80gig HD, Superdrive

Posted on Jan 6, 2006 3:56 PM

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Answer 1

Jan 6, 2006 6:49 PM in response to Red Zeppelin

Short answer: I seriously doubt it would matter.

Longer answer...

The speakers and power amp (Either extenal or built into the speakers) have the greatest effect on output sound quality. Most powered PC style speakers are not good enough to show off any difference is things like the quality of the DAC in the iMic vs Mini. If the speakers cost less than $1000 they are the weak link in the system. Also the iMic is not intended to be, nor is it marketed as a profesional quality device for either recording or playback.

For critical listening an industry standard is the AKG K240 headphone. These might show up a difference in two DACs but you'd still need a good and well trained ear.

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Answer 2

Jan 6, 2006 9:02 PM in response to Red Zeppelin

I think CJAlbertson is right. It probably won't make a really big difference. However, the iMic will add another level of complexity to audio output. The headphone port is driven by Mac OS X directly from the logic board. The iMic is driven by software drivers which are built-in to Mac OS X, but still may be more complex than the drivers for the built-in Apple hardware. Any additional level of complexity could add to the potential for conflicts, interference or trouble...

-Doug

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Answer 3

Red Zeppelin Author

Level 1

35 points

Jan 7, 2006 5:00 AM in response to Douglas McLaughlin

Thanks for the comments. Doug, that "level of complexity" is exactly what concerned me. I actually did a listening test, switching between the mini's headphone jack and the iMic. The iMic output produced slightly richer sound, especially in the higher frequency range (cymbals sounded much clearer and cleaner), but I don't know if it's enough to warrant adding that "level of complexity". I know if I leave the output in the headphone jack it will always work and not interfere with or hamper any of the mini's other processes.

Still, I may use the iMic output for a few days and see if I can notice any adverse effects.

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Answer 4

Jan 7, 2006 9:53 AM in response to Red Zeppelin

Let us know what you find out! I'm not all that much of an audiophile, I don't think I'd be qualified to give my opinion out from my experience. 🙂

-Doug

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Answer 5

Red Zeppelin Author

Level 1

35 points

Jan 7, 2006 10:52 AM in response to Douglas McLaughlin

I should have mentioned in my previous post that I conducted my listening test using iTunes with no EQ. I did some more tinkering and found that by engaging the EQ and boosting the highs a bit I was able to get comparable sound from my headphone jack as I was getting from my iMic.

I should also mention that I don't have $1k+ speakers. I'm an audiophile but a not a rich one. 🙂

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