2. pc-audio
  3. 1092243013

Advice on Setting Up A Laptop-Based Audio System?

Hey, I'm looking to set up a workspace audio system based around my Apple Powerbook G4. I've got about 100 GB of uncompressed audio on an external hard drive. I currently have Monsoon planar speakers and matching subwoofer hooked into the laptop through the 1/8" audio out, which soundsokay, but I think I could do better.

I don't have a PC card slot in the Powerbook, so I'm limited to a USB audio connection. I'm not looking to hook this system up to my "big rig" -- it's just for my workspace. I was looking to bypass getting an amplifier, unless it's fairly small.

I was thinking of going with some powered mini-monitors and maybe some kind of adapter/DAC in between, but I'm space-constrained and not looking to spend more than say, $600 total.

Any suggestions?
marc_dc

Showing 4 responses by dshea_32665

dshea_32665
28 posts
 
I have a Mac and a Transit. The analogue out leaves something to be desired, but is it really that bad if you are just using it to get the optical digital signal to a DAC? I think my setup sounds really quite good, but I would be happy to explore replacing the Transit if it really is a problem. Of course my DAC is not very expensive, so perhaps it is the higher end equipment that the shortcomings of the Transit would be more noticeable?

I have heard dozens of positive and rave reviews of using the Transit to provide a digital out of an iBook. This is the first time I have heard of it being so terrible. Can you elaborate?

dshea
dshea_32665
28 posts
 
Edumke,

Thanks for the information. I will check into those other external cards. I love upgrading and I have run out of things to upgrade (while keeping the system portable). I had looked at the Waverterminal before but I figured the extra features are what was making the unit cost more, and I only need it as a digital out.

Thanks for the info.

dshea
dshea_32665
28 posts
 
I am using an iBook G4 which has no card slot, USB is the only digital out possibility. Thanks though.

dshea
dshea_32665
28 posts
 
I have been looking at the MiniDAC after a few people on Head-Fi actually said they preferred it to the Benchmark. I was thinking this might be what I get especially since I listen to classical music primarily and if I get a sound that is too digital/detailed I get listening fatigue. Although I have not heard the Benchmark, those who don't like it as much as some say it is a bit analytical.

Edumke, have you compared your MiniDAC to the Bel Canto or Benchmark units?

Thanks, dshea
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