[JamieParticipant]

Thank you Wolfgang, that’s interesting, and very true about the console. I checked the official specifications and there are differences shown there too (though I’m aware these can’t always be relied on for direct comparison):

Mic/Line Inputs        | SQ                        | DX168
Input Sensitivity      |  -60 to +0dBu             |  -60 to +15dBu
Switchable Pad.        |  -20dB                    |  -20dB Active PAD
Analogue Gain          |  0dB to +60dB, 1dB steps  |  +5 to +60dB, 1dB steps
Max Input Level.       |  +30dBu                   |  +30dBu (PAD in)
Input Impedance.       |  >5kΩ                     |  >4kΩ (Pad out), >10kΩ (Pad in)
THD+N Unity gain 0dB   |  0.002% -92dBu            |  not listed
THD+N Mid gain +30dB   |  0.003% -91dBu            |  not listed
Mic EIN                |  not listed               |  -127dB with 150Ω source
Phantom Power          |  +48V (+3V / -2V)         |  +48V

[JamieParticipant]

Very true Steffen. I’m fully aware and almost pointed that out in my response actually. I just used ST1 as a common reference because I don’t currently have cables on hand to switch between DX168 1/2 and SQ-5 local 1/2 from the same playback source.

[JamieParticipant]

Not completely scientific or definitive by any stretch, but for what it’s worth:

Y-cable to split source feed between two stereo inputs on an SQ-5. Used a test tone to match the input levels and then with stereo music playback blind switched between:

DX168 inputs 1/2 via SLink and SQ-5 local ST1 line in:
I chose the DX168 as my favourite every time. There seems to be something about it; a definition that presents details in the music and vocals more clearly – added sparkle.

SQ-5 local inputs 1/2 and SQ-5 local ST1 line in:
These two are much closer and in fact I chose the ST1 line in, but I’d be hard pressed to say there’s much of a difference here.

Neither disappoints, but I’d say the DX168 has some extra magic over the local inputs. I’d love to hear others thoughts on this and I stand by to be shot down by A&H telling me they’re actually identical! 🙂

[Author]

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