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USB Ext Sound Card Vs. Squeebox

I need your opinion on the following setups. Which system will sound better?

1. Mac Mini with USB Sound Card + DAC
2. Mac Mini with Wifi Squeebox + same DAC

I am playing WAV as the music format.
I assume option 1 is better but option 2 is a cleaner setup for me. Has anyone tried both setups? And is there a noticeable difference?

Thanks.
Sean
seanchau

Showing 2 responses by drubin

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drubin
3,265 posts
 
In my system...

MacBook Pro -> USB out -> Hagerman USB adapter -> SPDIF cable -> DAC

sounds far to superior to

MacBook Pro -> wireless -> SB3 -> SPDIF digital out -> DAC.

I don't know why, but it's not close. Would love to try a USB DAC sometime -- could be even better.
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drubin
3,265 posts
 
Interesting, Steve. So can you explain why USB is so superior to SB3 in my system (see post above) and what it would take to beat it with a wireless implementation (which would be my preference)? I'm not meaning to challenge you, just seeking your learned input.
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