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Advice needed: am I going in the right direction?

I'm new to hi-fi sound world and spontaneously bought myself Yamaha NS BP200 passive speakers and Onkyo A-9030 amplifier, because I thought that connecting it to a PC will be a piece of cake - just buy some external sound card and you are good to go!

However after doing some research I found out that it's not that simple and now I'm kinda lost: does it (PC -> DAC or sound card -> amp -> speakers) even work like this. So, my question is:

Am I going in the right direction? And if yes, maybe you can suggest some DAC/external USB sound card that could suit my case (budget is about $150)?

jassblack

Showing 2 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
Your PC may even have an optical out, which I think is better than USB- though some may disagree.
But, big greg is correct, use a USB or Optical cable to the DAC of your choice. The rest is like the usual stereo connections.
As for a sound card, I wouldn't bother. Just use the PC to DAC.
There is a program that doesn't cost much called Fidelizer. It really made a difference for the better.
For a good inexpensive DAC, I would get a Schiit Multibit or Gungnir.
They are available used at a great price, too. Just make sure it is using the current most current updates. But, even if it isn't you can send it in to be upgraded. Great company.
Bob
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
@big greg.
+1
Your system will dictate the level of sensitivity you require.
In your case, I would suggest a Schiit Bifrost Multibit.
B
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