John, lack of a USB port generally isn't much of a problem. There are plenty of USB to S/PDIF converters out there. I use the Hagerman HagUsb (or something like that) in my office system, which uses the Mambo. I also have a Squeezebox in the office that connects via coax digital input, but the computer connects USB --> Hagerman adapter --> Toslink connection. That way I can listen to either the Squeezebox or directly from the computer, my choice.
The USB to S/PDIF adapters are inexpensive and, at least in my experience, work great. I can't tell the difference between hooking my Mac's mini-Toslink port to the Toslink input of the Mambo vs USB to Toslink. In fact, it makes a better connection as the connector is never falling out like it did with the mini-Toslink port.
Michael
The USB to S/PDIF adapters are inexpensive and, at least in my experience, work great. I can't tell the difference between hooking my Mac's mini-Toslink port to the Toslink input of the Mambo vs USB to Toslink. In fact, it makes a better connection as the connector is never falling out like it did with the mini-Toslink port.
Michael