macmini spdif out vs. usb

Definitely do the conversion outside of the computer. Get the USB DAC.

Marco

BTW, for the record, I am definitely NOT a fan of the Benchmark DAC. Since your question was very specific to that DAC I answered specifically the question you asked. I should probably add that I found the Benchmark to be too harsh for my ears in two different systems I tried it in at length, as well as in a friend's system briefly. It is a very analytical and detailed DAC. I'd associate it more with its Pro-Audio origins. I had a Wavelength Brick that I liked very much, and would guess that Jeffrey Bowman's recommendation of their Cosecant would be more to my liking as well. To use the common vernacular, the Wavelengths are more musical, softer-edged, and warmer - that from my experience with The Brick, and from what I've read on his other DACs. Benchmark are more analytical, neutral, and hard-edged to my ears. Some folks like that kind of sound, apparently. I'm not one of them.

Marco

Bruce - your current arrangement is less than optimal, IMO. You should use an external USB/SPDIF convertor. This would add a standard USB cable to the equation, as well as a digital cable of your preference (Toslink or Coaxial) depending on the device. The latter would go to the digital input on your MF. Empirical Audio's Offramp would serve that purpose. I use a Waveterminal U24 for the same purpose, but those are no longer avaialable, or I would recommend them. I believe Hagtech offers an alternative, as do several other companies, both in pro-audio and specialty audiophile. They are available at various pricepoints, as most things in this hobby. You can get a convertor from PartsExpress for $20, or spend $1K+ on one from Empirical or spend several thousand on a new USB DAC from Wavelength. Since the conversion and clocking is critical I'd say it's an investment you shouldn't take lightly (skip the Parts Express route). The idea is take the conversion of your computer audio files output, into SPDIF, outside of the electro-magnetically noisy environment of your MacBook (where it currently is taking place given the arrangement you describe). USB seems to be the best interface for doing that. I'm no expert, consult someone like Steve from Empirical, or Gordon Rankin from Wavelength for various points of view on the subject, complete with technical details up the Wazoo. There are also plenty of threads in the archives here and over at PCAudioAsylum that may give you additional real-world opinions and advice. I think most would agree that getting the coversion/re-clocking out of the noisy computer environment will be a significant improvement.

Marco

Bruce_1; you are welcome. Definitely get some input from the folks who make their living in that field, and listen and weigh the specific alternatives yourself. Report your findings here when you have...perhaps another thread. Have fun! Worst case scenario - it does sound like you have an enjoyable system already - Nothing wrong with that!

Hey Rene - How have you enjoyed the Wavelength Brick? Did I describe the sound in a way that was similar to your own impressions of it? Have you held onto it?

Marco