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Inexpensive USB DAC

I'm helping a friend with a system.

He has a Rogue Tempest integrated amp and Paradigm S20 v.4 speakers and will be using his computer hard drive as a server. NOT an audiophile, but needs a DAC to link up the computer to the amp.

I'm trying to decide among a Squeezebox 3, HRT Music Streamer+, or Musical Fidelity V-DAC, all the same price ($299).

He will be sitting at the computer when he plays music, so, though the SB3 will be more convenient, it's not absolutely necessary for functionality.

Which would give him the best sound?

Thanks for you help!
--Neil
ncarv

Showing 4 responses by ncarv

ncarv OP
983 posts
 
Thanks to both of you. Unless someone else rings in with another opinion, V-DAC it is!
ncarv OP
983 posts
 
I saw that review of the ASUS, but forgot about the reference to the V-DAC. I'll have to check it out. Thanks again.
ncarv OP
983 posts
 
Dfhaleycko, I read the review again, didn't see any reference to the MF V-DAC, just the SB and the Ayre QB-9.
Besides, my friend has a Mac and the Stereophile review says the ASUS is only PC compatible.
ncarv OP
983 posts
 
Dfhaleycko, I agree with you, but I'm having a hard time even convincing this guy he needs a DAC, so I think it's going to have to be the V-DAC. Also, he's going to be sitting at the computer when playing music, so the functionality of the SB is not critical.
I love my SB, but I'm running it through an Audio Logic DAC, so it's really just an interface.
Thanks again.
--Neil
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