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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 2 responses by sufentanil

sufentanil's avatar
sufentanil
782 posts
 
Yes, the Squeezebox and Transporter both have built-in DAC's. They also permit the use of an external DAC by way of coax and Toslink digital outputs.

Michael
sufentanil's avatar
sufentanil
782 posts
 
The Squeezebox uses your own library to work. (It can also work with internet radio.) I believe it works with iTunes, as well.

The Slimserver (which the Squeezebox uses) is installed on your computer. You use the server to send the audio data to the Squeezebox. The Squeezebox is hooked up to your stereo, either via analog or digital connections. There is no monthly charge; you're using your own music library.

I'm currently using the Slimserver software on a Linux box with 300 GB of FLAC files. I have a wired ethernet network in my house (you can also use wireless), and I control the server with a laptop. It's really a slick setup, but you can get away with a lot less.

Michael
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