Need integrated amp with built-in USB DAC

Sorry I didn't see your question earlier.

What I mean is the sound quality you can buy today for say 2k will probably be available in 2 years time for 1k or less. Of course there will be a lot of exceptions and special cases, but that is what I observe.

Then there is the constant flow of digital formats. Up to now I don't care much for DSD but you may like something that comes down the road.

It doesn't mean something you buy today will not operate in two years or will sound bad, but rather in terms of bang for buck. In the last two years I have had, or have now, 5 DACs ranging from 3.5k (exaSound e22) to 0.2k (iFi) and have to say I've been impressed with how much better quality of sound you can afford for less money lately.

Regarding maturity of amps: you are right about class-D. I wouldn't say the same for ss or tubes, though. BTW, I just finished assembling a couple of Hypex UcD class-D monoblocks and think they sound very well for relatively little money vs my tubed McIntosh MC275. But I feel no urge to upgrade the MC275 or the Lamm pre for something newer. Maybe for something better, but in my mind newer doesn't equate to better in that class of equipment.

Of course these are my two cents and by no means I pretend to "be right" :-)
Just trying to watch after somebody else's wallet.

Cheers

A used Naim UnitiQute appears to meet all your requirements. Other units to consider would be the PS Audio Sprout, and the Sonos Amp. Neither the Sprout or Sonos are "killer" pieces, but both will attach to a Mac. The Naim has much better sound, but will cost about 2 to 3 times more.

Also, count me as a +1 regarding a used Ax-7e. I have one of these and concur with the comments from others. The Ax-7e is a great value, especially if you can find a used one for sale in clean shape. Hope that helps.

Purchase a Behringer UCA202 to add optical out via USB to the Mac. Then you can get a unit with a toslink optical connection. You'll have way more options going that route than restricting to ONLY units that have USB.

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-UCA202-Audio-Interface/dp/B000KW2YEI

This may be perfect for you. Price is even a bit lower than your limit, but it is worth more.  It is still a pretty new model.  Its from the same people who gave us the high-end Nuforce products ... NuPrime IDA-8

There is an expired add in this forum.. Look here:   http://tinyurl.com/o8mhjcj
I want to get one myself.

Gene

Dared i30.Peachtree Audio.