I'm in the process of building a computer based system with a Mac Mini as my source. I'm using the Toslink out of the Mini to the 840C and I'm very, VERY pleased with the results.
I had every intention of investing in a USB or Firewire DAC, but I honestly can not imagine how the potential difference in SQ will justify the investment.
My system is a headless Mac Mini (2.53GHz/4GB memory) with an 80GB SSD. Music files are stored on a DROBO encoded in Aiff. I'm using Amarra Mini software (highly recommended!) and my iPod Touch with VNC, and the Remote app from iTunes to control eveything.
The Mac Mini is connected to the CA840C via a Van den Hul Optocoupler.
If anyone has experienced significant improvement moving from the 840C (DAC) to a dedicated USB or Firewire DAC, I'd love to hear your story... but my current setup beats the 840C's CD player as a source, and that's no easy feat!
Oh, one more thing... the Wadia 170i was my gateway drug. What an amazing little transport the iPod is! The Wadia is a great piece of gear!
I had every intention of investing in a USB or Firewire DAC, but I honestly can not imagine how the potential difference in SQ will justify the investment.
My system is a headless Mac Mini (2.53GHz/4GB memory) with an 80GB SSD. Music files are stored on a DROBO encoded in Aiff. I'm using Amarra Mini software (highly recommended!) and my iPod Touch with VNC, and the Remote app from iTunes to control eveything.
The Mac Mini is connected to the CA840C via a Van den Hul Optocoupler.
If anyone has experienced significant improvement moving from the 840C (DAC) to a dedicated USB or Firewire DAC, I'd love to hear your story... but my current setup beats the 840C's CD player as a source, and that's no easy feat!
Oh, one more thing... the Wadia 170i was my gateway drug. What an amazing little transport the iPod is! The Wadia is a great piece of gear!