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iMac USB audio drops to external DAC (but optical remains OK)

I have an external DAC connected to my iMac via USB (direct not via hub) and Toslink Optical.


In System Preferences > Sound > Output, the DAC shows up correctly, as also it does in Audio Midi Setup > Audio Devices > Output.


Also, the 'Built-in Output' (Optical) shows up correctly.


I can switch between USB or optical input on the DAC and they both work fine.


However, peridocally, the USB output from the iMac will simply stop working: aside no sound, the 'lock' light on the DAC goes off.


The USB settings remain in prefs/midi panes, and the USB DAC device remains shown correctly (and the format etc. can continue to be adjusted).


The optical output is not affected and continues to work normally, so switching the DAC to that gives me sound back.


Unplugging and replugging the USB connection 'restores' the USB sound.


Any ideas what's getting lost/corrupted here?

iMac (27-inch Mid 2010), Mac OS X (10.7.4)

Posted on Jul 18, 2013 3:03 AM

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iMac USB audio drops to external DAC (but optical remains OK)

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