Are you going to use USB? If so, then speed of computer, type of hard drive, amount of memory etc. are unimportant. It is because asynchronous USB strips timing from the signal and new timing is recreated inside of the DAC. Amount of electrical noise is still important since it affects operation of the DAC, but it is difficult to predict which computer will be the best for that. Often slower computer can be less noisy then the fast one. USB cable can also affect operation. You need cable with very good shielding and possibly no power wires, if your DAC doesn't need it.
Suggested PC laptop models for computer audio
I am looking for advice directing me towards an inexpensive, simple Windows based laptop - used or new - to which I will add an external solid state hard drive to use as a server for a computer audio front end at home.
I currently use a one year old Dell Latitude at work with a WD external hard drive running iTunes and JRiver Media Center 21, and it sounds remarkably good (although music software programs not ideal companions within enterprise networked office environment:\). Given my current budget and space constraints, the advantage of having the screen, keyboard processor and I/Os all in one chassis, combined with my familiarity with PC systems and software, I would probably not consider a Mac Mini at this time.
Music file procurement, storage, handling and reproduction would be the sole purpose of the laptop. Currently running FLAC, AIFF and mp4 files at resolutions up to 24/96, with capacity to handle higher res files in future. Lots of ripped redbook files. DAC will be Arcam irdac for the time being. No DSD files for now.
Your PC laptop suggestions very much appreciated.
kn
I currently use a one year old Dell Latitude at work with a WD external hard drive running iTunes and JRiver Media Center 21, and it sounds remarkably good (although music software programs not ideal companions within enterprise networked office environment:\). Given my current budget and space constraints, the advantage of having the screen, keyboard processor and I/Os all in one chassis, combined with my familiarity with PC systems and software, I would probably not consider a Mac Mini at this time.
Music file procurement, storage, handling and reproduction would be the sole purpose of the laptop. Currently running FLAC, AIFF and mp4 files at resolutions up to 24/96, with capacity to handle higher res files in future. Lots of ripped redbook files. DAC will be Arcam irdac for the time being. No DSD files for now.
Your PC laptop suggestions very much appreciated.
kn