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Computer output to DAC, which route?

I have disbanded my main system because I am using my computer system more and more. I am going to purchase an outboard DAC for my computer, but I want to know something:
My computer comes equipped with COAX and TOSLINK outputs on the motherboard. Should I use one of those or use a DAC with a USB connection? WHat are the pluses and minuses of each way if any? I am using typical Altec Lansing speakers (good for what they are) but will probably move up to active Dynaudio monitors in the future. All music is sourced from itunes in either AAC or apple lossless formats.

Thanks in advance!
phoenix469

Showing 2 responses by lupinthe3rd

lupinthe3rd
47 posts
 
Unless your computer is in the same room with your stereo (why??) then avoid using the computer as a source component. Stream the music over your home network instead, so some device that outputs SPDIF to your DAC.

I use the Squeezebox system myself and love it, but if you insist on iTunes, you do have some options. The Apple Airport Express will do exactly this - you can stream your iTunes collection to the AE, and the AE device will output a toslink signal to your DAC. Note that the AE requires a special "mini" toslink connector.
lupinthe3rd
47 posts
 
Also, if you insist on using your computer directly as an audio source, do not use the onboard SPDIF output, or even a USB device. Use only a Firewire device!

Firewire supports isochronous data transfers - critical to a clocked data stream like SPDIF. USB does not support this!
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