Some basic computer audio questions


I'm running a Mid-2015 5K iMac with file player software. I'd like to hook up the computer to my full-sized stereo. The only direct out I know of is the headphone jack, which would mean a 3.5mm minijack to male RCA cable. 

Questions:

1. When people were using Mac Minis, is this how they connected to their audio equipment, or was it USB out to a d/a converter?

2. With the 3.5mm to RCA cable: are there any truly high quality examples of these being made? Most are included accessories or $2 cables. Even a few at $50+ look like repackaged cheap stuff. What's the maximum length a cable like this can go to?

3. I might move files to a mid-2012 Mac Pro tower. Is there any difference in sound between a SATA SSD and  blade PCIE SSD?

Thanks in advance!


mcrib

Showing 1 response by sar67

Hello MCrib,

 I do not have a solution for your question, but a question myself. May I ask for your expertise and guidance? ow can I connect my music collection on a FLAC USB to my pre-amp listed here? My sound system is an early 80s ‘stack’ system.

None of the components are digital: Bryston 2B solid state amp, Conrad-Johnson PV-11 pre-amp, MIT 330 interconnects, MusicWave phase-equalized speaker cables, California Audio Labs CD Alpha and Delta drive, Dual 1129 turntable. B&W 803 speakers.

I would appreciate your suggestions and guidance on the matter.Thank you.

Mark Saracino