Starting computer audio

Manniesmith,

I too am starting out in computer audio and recently picked up the Bel Canto USB Link to feed my Heed Dactilus (SPDIF input only). I admit that I’m no expert in this area, but I’d be willing to bet the Bel Canto route would produce less jitter and provide better sound quality over the Sonos Connect. There are some incredibly knowledgeable folks on Agon and am sure that they’ll be able to provide you some solid advice. Also, you might try posting this question on the Computer Audiophile website as that’s where I was able to find some helpful information on the Bel Canto piece. Best of luck ;)

The digital out from a Squeezebox Touch has very respectable jitter, Orr lack thereof. No idea how it compares to your own suggestions but it does have a convenient interface and might be a worthy addition to your queries.

Thanks to you both. Tough call - the convenience of Sonos or Squeezebox vs the inconvenience of running and hiding the cable, but the advantage of reclocking with the Bel Canto. Is a puzzlement...Anyone else?

Bummer! Just realized that Sonos Connect requires an ethernet connection, so cabling is also an issue there. Squeezebox plugs into AC outlet and can be strictly WiFi. Sonos out - Squeezebox now the other option.

Not so tough. The Sonos jitter is much higher than the SB Touch. Not that it is perfect, but definitely better. I would go with Touch.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

I have the SBT and am very impressed with the sound from the digital output. With the SBT, USB issues are off the table, and, at least with 16/44 flac files, I have not had a single hiccup (no hi-res files on my server yet). Note that my dedicated music server (VortexBox Appliance) is connected to my home network via Ethernet cable. Plus, the damned thing is fun! I never thought I would enjoy the SBT vs. spinning CDs as much as I do, but once my whole collection is on the server, I don't think I'll be spinning many CDs.

And, oh yeah, the SBT is a bargain!

Thanks all. Looks like Squeezbox is choice with later option of replacing Theta with higher rez, reclocking dac.