2. pc-audio
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Front end system for music streaming

I am not sure if this posting is in the correct forum.
I need help in understanding the setup options for a system. I am looking at Sim Audio 600i with M1i Monitors and a Rel R-528 sub woofer. I am tossed between Cambridge 851C or the Sim Audio 380 (due out in Sept). Anyway, I have no real music collection at this time except what is on my i-pod.
I am very interested in what is happening with music streaming from the internet. So I plan to start there. With this in mind, do I need a PC or some other device to manage the music from the internet? What recommendations do you have? Many thanks!
ddelisle911

Showing 1 response by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
PC can be problematic to get good sound quality, although its possible.

I recommend late 2009 Mac Mini (MC238LL/A macmini3,1) with internal SSD and Amarra playback software version 4318/19. This is a superb source which has won multiple best of shows. See for more info:

http://www.empiricalaudio.com/computer-audio/recommended-systems

The Mac Mini driving USB cable to good low-jitter USB converter will get you the best digital source. This is actually more important than the DAC. A good S/PDIF cable is needed from the converter to the DAC below.

For budget DAC, I would recommend either Metrum Octave or Wired for Sound DAC2.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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