2. pc-audio
  3. 1154806597

Notebook digital vs analog out to digital amp?

Please let me know which is better:

Audigy ZS -> decent optical out cable-> Panasonic sa-xr55 digital amp -> Silverline SR-17

vs.

Audigy ZS -> decent RCA -> $2-300 Rotel/Marantz...-> Silverline SR-17

On the one hand I think I can give the Panasonic a bit-perfect signal with the optical out. On the other hand there's more flexibility in the amplifier if I go with an standard RCA connection.

Or is there a better solution to getting audio out of a notebook on the cheap? Anything better than an audigy around that price? Thanks.
angaria

Showing 1 response by arni

arni
313 posts
 
Given that the source signal sets the foundation for the final sound quality; garbage in-garbage out, I believe you would be far better off with going digital straigt into the Panasonic. There is no DAC conversion until at the speaker output, and I believe you would get far cleaner sound. Even in analog comparison, I would expect the Pannie to outperfrom any $200-300 Rotel or Marantz receiver.
Good luck
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