Sound through Macbook vs DAC


I have been pondering how much to spend on a DAC. But unlike normal circumstances, its not becuase I cannot decide on a model, its becuase my Macbook sounds really good even with out one! I hooked up my Dads marantz CD player for comparison. The CD player was much brighter than my Macbook, even though I had it connected with a radioshack cable. Does every computer sound really good or do Apples sound a bit better straight from the card. I relized that a DAC will increase sound stage, dynamics, and transparency, but is it worth the 2000 dollars for a bel canto? My set up includes Totem Model 1's and a Classe 151 amp. Thanks
macd

Showing 1 response by jasonparmenter

Hi, Buy your self the new emmLabs DAC 2 CD/SACD (If Budget Allows).
Cheers Jason.
www.parmentersound.com

emmLabs DAC 2
emmLabs DAC2 AUDIO CONVERTER for CD/SACD & DSD.

The DAC2 is a high-performance stereo D/A converter with a wide variety of user selectable digital inputs.

It has evolved from EMM Labs acclaimed converter systems which are used worldwide in professional studios to create some of the finest recordings.

The DAC2 provides conversion from a wide variety of digital input formats, including USB Audio for computers, media systems and digital audio playback machines making it an extremely flexible converter system that can act as a standalone conversion hub to a host of digital sources.

The DAC2 has:
* EMM Labs proprietary internal MDAT algorithm to up-sample and condition digital audio to twice the SACD/DSD sample rate.

* Ed Meitners proprietary discrete Dual Differential DAC circuit.

* Uses our exclusive aerospace grade composite laminate circuit boards.

The DAC2, when paired with an EMM Labs transport, performs as an unparalleled CD/SACD playback system.

Features & Specifications 2-Channel D/A conversions:

* from PCM (44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz) to analog
* from DSD to analog Supported digital input formats:
* AES/EBU (1 connector)
* SPDIF (Coax)
* Two Optical TOSLink SPDIF
* EMM OptiLink
* USB Audio Analog outputs and impedances
* Balanced on XLR (100)
* Unbalanced on RCA (50)

User selectable levels:
Low position:
* XLR outputs: 4V (+14.38dBu)
* RCA outputs: 2V (+8.353dBu)

High position:
* XLR outputs: 7.2V (+19.38dBu)
* RCA outputs: 3.6V (+13.34dBu)

* Factory set to 100V or 115V or 230V, 50/60Hz operation
* Power consumption: 50W
* Remote control: Infrared
* Dimensions W x D x H: 435 x 400 x 92mm
* Weight: 12kg

The emmLabs DAC2 is controlled by an internal processor that can be programmed with software to enhance or add new features for future upgrades.