PreSonus Eris E3.5
Passive, Active, Pair, 2x 25 W
Question about PreSonus Eris E3.5
Can you connect it directly to a PC or iMac Pro or do you also need a DAC such as the Audioengine D1 DAC? Is such a DAC of any use at all on an iMac Pro?
Helpful answer
The speaker has two different inputs: balanced/symmetrical (6.3 mm jack) and unbalanced/asymmetrical (cinch).
Via the PC / iMac you always get an unbalanced signal via the 3.5mm jack. With an appropriate cable (jack - cinch), the speakers can be connected directly.
Balanced (symmetrical) audio signals are common in professional mixing consoles. The transmission of such balanced audio signals is not susceptible to interference, especially over longer distances. A connection from the PC to the "balanced" connection at the loudspeaker would only be possible via a DI box (which converts the asymmetrical signal into a symmetrical signal). For home use and the connection of a PC / iMac, this diversions is unnecessary, so it is better to connect directly via the unbalanced connection (cinch).