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How to add SPDIF and Toslink connections to my computer

My motherboard lacks SPDIF and Toslink connections.  I don’t want a sound card, or at least I don’t want to USE a sound card.  I want to buy an external DAC.  I can use the computer’s USB connections with my as yet chosen DAC, but most have a micro USB, particularly the ones I’m interested in, and I read they are less desirable for audio quality.  Is there something I can add to my computer, besides a sound card, in the way of a card or adapter to get those connection.

This is for my husband’s computer.  His old computer went down and the problem could not be easily diagnosed so he bought a used Dell.  A pathetic substitute for his previous Intel motherboard, but it is what it is for the price.  Next to it sits a Meridian 551 integrated amp and a pair of Spendor S3/5 speakers and we got decent audio from the old sound card, an ASUS Essence STX, but not great and  I want better if I can get it.  So moving from a sound card to an external DAC seems like a good idea.

I’ve been looking at USB DACs like Schiit Modius, Allo Revolution, SMSL Sanskrit.  Basically DACs under $500.
ideas welcome.
128x128echolane
5 responses Add your response
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
I just did a quick Google, and I think the easiest way is to buy a sound card. Sorry.
Though, you might want to check out John Darko's videos about the Raspberry Pi. You can build a pretty nice unit for under $300.
As for DAC's, I would buy a used Schiit Bifrost rather than a Modius.

Bob
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,598 posts
 
https://hifiheaven.net/shop/M2TECH/M2TECH-HiFace-Two-R-USB-Hi-End-SPDIF-Output-Interface
But you'll get better sound with a RasPi 4 instead of a PC. I wouldn't put any money into it.
echolane's avatar
echolane OP
102 posts
 
I like the idea of buying an el cheapo sound card just so I could use the connections, but how would a sound card coexist with a DAC when I want the sound of my DAC and not the sound of the sound card?

But that idea would be immaterial if I could find a used Bifrost because it has a proprietary USB that is supposed to be good.  Yes, I read up in the Bifrost.  I almost wish I hadn’t because it sounds so darn good, but the price is a problem.  Used sounds like the way I’ll have to go.  Thanks for a great tip.  
I checked out John Darko and Raspberry Pi.  Unless I’m missing something, it seems to be all about streaming and I am already set up to stream.  I’m using Roon and my husband’s computer is one of four Roon endpoints in the house.
echolane's avatar
echolane OP
102 posts
 
Fuzztone said: “But you'll get better sound with a RasPi 4 instead of a PC. I wouldn't put any money into it.”

Not to worry.  I have the Meridian integrated amplifier and Spendor S3/5 speakers to make wonderful sound.  I just need the DAC to interface between the computer and the Meridian and Speakers.


acefactory
65 posts
 
If I were you I'd grab a Meridian Director DAC (old, but very good sound) or equivalent and go direct via USB from the computer to the DAC. For the equipment you have (good indeed, but not premium), I can't image how any difference in sound quality between standard and mini USB could be discerned. 
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