2. pc-audio
  3. 1246919312

Mac to DAC thats comparable to Linn CDP?

I have tried a few and they sound like crap compared to my old Linn Genki.

My wife has asked to set up a music server to get all the CDs out of the dining room.

I have a Dell Mini running OSX and itunes, USB out and also an external USB to SPDIF converter.

This is connected to a Linn Kolector and Aktiv bi-amped Ninkas with a 10" Sizmik subwoofer.

Compared to a CD in the Genki using lossless Apple format, the (inexpensive) USB DACs I have tried have a tiny sound stage, the bass is all fuzzy and the treble sounds like glass breaking inside my ear.

I searched up all these posts where people say this or that DAC sounds good with the computer, but do they mean 'good for a computer'?

My question is, can I get acceptable sound out of the computer or is this a lost cause? If I can get decent sound this way, what is my wallet looking at, and how can I figure out how to pick a DAC from the hundreds that are available.

Thanks!
ophitoxaemia

Showing 1 response by sammie

sammie
220 posts
 
For this to work, you'll have to spend some $ on a decent DAC, whether it be a USB or Firewire version, although I doubt you have a F/W connection on your Dell. Are you running Windows as well? Or, just OSX? If running windows, you can try Mediamonkey as well as other free players, which might give you better sound than Itunes, although the user interfaces will be lacking.

I also recommend taking a look @ the MHDT DAC's. I see there's at least 1 for sale on the Gon presently.

Also, Wavelength Audio just released a <1K DAC, the Proton, which has rec'd some praise.

Good luck.
More to discover