Uditnait, several comments in response to your last 2 posts:
Many jazz recording are miked and processed such that the imaging within the soundstage is more focused over that of many rock productions.
On your MAC make sure you have volume set to max, reset iTunes to rip CDs as AIFF files, use the error correction option, and consider another playback program (as aforementioned).
Good idea to take your preamp with you to audition DACs. Are you willing to purchase a used DAC? There are many older ones which are very good, built with robust power supply and excellent analog output stage which can be had for a fraction of the original price. One caveat, with those over 5 years old you might need a USB/SPDIF converter as USB implementation has improved. Older ones are isochronous vs. asynchronous. Consider your input needs and future use options (DSD, hi-rez) prior to selection of a DAC.
I am very happy with my MAC Mini, Bryston BDA-1 with USB converter, playing AIFF files over Pure Music in my system. I find redbook CD quality quite satisfying and far less expensive for an extensive library. I occasionally like to spin CDs so I require two coax inputs with a DAC, however have not current need for DSD.
Good luck in your search!
