2. digital
  3. 1355281608

Hi-end sound from iTunes running on MacPro

Like many, I have found myself with an extensive iTunes library of music, most is now converted to "lossless" format. My desire for hi-end playback has become rekindled and I am wondering what my options are. My "good stuff" is 20 years old. I have a Theta DS Pro Basic Dac along with a Theta Jade transport for CD play. The Dac has one RCA digital input (and perhaps a balanced jack as well). My power amp is a Boulder 500 and a pair of B&W 801 Matrix speakers. I like my Theta DS Pro Basic but it is a dinosaur, perhaps ready to retire.
I am hoping that my MacPro digital output (USB or Toslink) can be used by a DAC for "hi-end" playback. Using the micro plug analog from the Mac to my preamp yields modest results.
I am hoping someone can give me direction on what would be a reasonable DAC vs what is a reasonable expectation on quality of play back.
I have found many options from $14 to $20K and I am finding it difficult to find good definitive advise. Please help.
georgedunham

Showing 1 response by metralla

metralla
945 posts
 
I believe it's still a volatile marketplace. The good thing is that the DACs for file servers are not that expensive. The one to watch at the moment appears to be the Mytek at $1500. Connect to your MacPro using FireWire. You can use the balanced outputs to your preamp.

I own the Metric Halo LIO-8 which has a more complex set of features, was twice the price, and has very good sound. But if I were buying today, I'd try the Mytek.

Regards,
More to discover