I take it back. MacAmpLite X does support FLAC ( free lossless audio codec) playback.I also found out that FLAC "files handle 16, 24 and 32 bit resolution and can sample all the way up to 192Khz." and yes, I have discovered www.easytree.org which is the place to get those FLAC files ( some of which were recorded at those higher bit/sample rates). Now I need a basic USB DAC that supports 32/192 for under $200.
DAC sampling rates
What is the benefit of a soundcard or DAC that supports 24 bit/ 96 or 192 kHz? Is it future-proofing? Will my computer (or my next computer) be able to read SACD or DVD-A? I believe that there are some formats ( FLAC, APE) that support these higher rates but I haven't yet seen a Mac compatible player for these formats. Also, am I correct that computer based DAC is a more generic/ less specific type of device than an audio based device? I ask this because I understand that audio DAC's are for the most part only 'redbook.' THANK YOU.