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 rlwainwright

rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
>> Audioengr- So basically you're saying scrap everything and spend $20K. Sorry, not going to happen. <<

Based upon that statement alone, I can tell you're a reasonable man. In addition, you say you're quite happy with the sound quality as it is now. My question to you would be "Why mess with a good thing?"

To get sound from my PC network to my pre-processor, I'm using a LinkSys Wireless MusicBridge. I use the digital out from the MusicBridge into a digital input on my pre-pro and the sound is great. This lets me use the DACs in my pre-pro instead of the ones in my soundcard.

Using WinAmp with assorted plug-ins, I am able to playback virtually every file format - WAV, MP3, WMA, FLAC, SHN, DTS, APE.

You might want investigate using a MusicBridge, the cost is around $80 and the sound quality and convenience are very good.

-RW-
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