2. digital
  3. 1090434511

iPod to DAC Connection

I was disappointed that the fourth generation iPod announced this week did not have a digital output so that it could be hooked up to an DAC. I think it could provide near audiophile caliber output if you used the best AIFF or Apple Loseless processing options and a digital output. Now, I'm wondering if it is possible to have a digital output for it by somehow hooking up a cable to the iPod itself or the dock that would be Firewire or USB 2.0 at the iPod/dock end and S/PDIF at the other end to plug into a DAC. Anyone know if this is possible? Does such a cable exist, or maybe the digital bits coming out of a Firewire output are different from those going through a coaxial data cable? Any insights would be appreciated.
bruce_1

Showing 1 response by ckorody

ckorody
643 posts
 
If you go down the SendStation route, you should take a look at the WaveTerminal U24 which is a pro-audio USB device.

Provides Toslink, S/PDIF and 1/4" RCA outs and requires no power (gets it from the USB). Have one between my Mac and a Monarchy DIP/Channel Islands Audio DAC and it sounds very, very good - especially for $200 at B&H!

http://www.esi-pro.com/viewProduct.php?pid=10&page=1
More to discover