Here is what I did.
- Get a Benchmark DAC-1 USB.
- Connect Mac Mini to DAC-1 using USB cable.
- Connect DAC-1 to master system.
- Run Audio Midi Setup on the Mac, select DAC-1 as Default Output, change Format to 96,000Hz and 2ch-24bit, set both volume sliders to maximum.
- Start iTunes, import Apple Lossless tracks, set iTunes volume at maximum, turn off iTunes equalizer, and play.
- Volume should be controlled from preamp or DAC-1. Do not use volume controls on the Mac.
- Get a Benchmark DAC-1 USB.
- Connect Mac Mini to DAC-1 using USB cable.
- Connect DAC-1 to master system.
- Run Audio Midi Setup on the Mac, select DAC-1 as Default Output, change Format to 96,000Hz and 2ch-24bit, set both volume sliders to maximum.
- Start iTunes, import Apple Lossless tracks, set iTunes volume at maximum, turn off iTunes equalizer, and play.
- Volume should be controlled from preamp or DAC-1. Do not use volume controls on the Mac.