From Benchmark's website:
"Jitter is a type of clock error that, if not properly addressed, can cause the D-to-A to misfire. The result of these misfires is a non-musical, digital distortion.
Many modern (and expensive) converters suffer from severe jitter-induced distortion."
Some DACs re-clock the signal, thereby eliminating jitter, or at least reducing it and its effects.
The Benchmark reportedly does a very good job of it. To the best of my knowledge, the Music Hall doesn't. I'd search for DACs that re-clock the signal if you're going to use the iTransport.
If you're contemplating the iTransport, have you considered the Apple TV? I use one. Its far better ergonomically IMO. I couldn't get past the way the iTransport functions. I don't want to use the click wheel (if it works) or the almost useless remote.
The Apple TV stores your music on its hard drive, can be controlled by either using a TV or an iPod Touch or iPhone if you have wifi in your home. It has an optical digital out to connect to an external DAC.
It'll also do internet radio and YouTube. YouTube may not sound like a big deal, but I've watched a ton of live music and obscure performances with it. Audio and video quality varies widely, but its a lot of fun. Where else can you readily get BB King playing live a few decades ago? Pearl Jam playing an acoustic set in a Tower records before anyone really knew who they were? The possibilities are endless.
If you buy from the online Apple Store, you can get a refurbished Apple TV and iPod Touch for cheaper than the iTransport.
If you have an Apple Store near you, stop in and check it out. I bought one about a year ago and haven't looked back. Its better than the iTransport in every way.
