2. pc-audio
  3. 1172946593

General question on PC audio set-up

I've been using my Toshiba Qosmio Notebook(NB) and a 500 gig external hardrive for playing mostly flac and shn (but some wav and mp3 files). I have been very happy with the sound quality and haven't done anything exotic in the set-up.

I use the single external stereo speaker output on the NB and use a splitter with RCA plugs connecting to an Aux input to my ARC SP-12 preamp. I cannot notice any sound quality difference between playing the digital files and a CD. Not using any special cables for speakers or interconnects other than a higher end pair between the pre and the ARC D-90 amp. Use Focal bookshelf speakers and the sound is very good.

The only question is that I've read a lot of forums where people are using D/A converters and a lot of other components for their PC systems and I'm wondering if I'm missing something. Again, I'm quite happy with the current sound and have listened to many systems including others I've had over the years but not through a PC. This one sounds as well as I can expect.
jamesk58

Showing 1 response by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I'm afraid you are missing everything, sorry. The fact that you are not using upgraded interconnects or speaker cables and a "splitter" tells all. The entire system must be tweaked/modded in order to get superb sound. No splitters allowed. The other alternative it so spend upwards of $100K.

What I would recommend is that you upgrade your digital source first. This is where most of the problems begin. If you use a high-quality digital computer converter and then go to a very good DAC, this will make all the difference in the world. Again, you can spend big bux on components such as DCS, EMM labs etc.. or you can spend medium bux on modded gear. IMO, nothing stock sounds good.

Then, buy some good quality silver IC's and good speaker cables. This will probably cost you in the neighborhood of $2000.

Then, I would look to upgrade your speakers and amps. Finally, your preamp, which may just need modding.

Until you have heard how good it can be, you cannot really understand what you are missing. Unfortunately, the only place to hear this type of sound is in appointment-only dealers showrooms and at CES. Typical bricks and mortar dealers never have a decent sound IMO.
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