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Using Macbook Air as audio source

I would appreciate advice for a budget Audiophile. Plan on using my Macbook Air, 4 Gb RAM with external hard drives, iTunes, Bit Perfect) as a dedicated source for digital audio. Exposure 2010S, Def Tech Mythos speakers, small Apt space. Considering a used Ayre QB-9 DSD as a DAC. I realize the Macbook Air or any laptop isn't the OMG Wow, best source and would appreciate advice.
pushpull

Showing 1 response by sbank

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sbank
3,378 posts
 
Marcus, you can get good sound w/Mac as a source, but I would strongly suggest better software than iTunes. Audirvana+ is a good place to start w/Mac as source. Rip all your CDs into AIFF format(mac and iTunes compatible) and Buy downloads in high rez AIFF (or FLAC and convert them). Inexpensive devices like Regen, Schiit Wyrd, or iFi double-headed USB will also make very noticeable improvements. There are tons of threads detailing all these suggestions. Read up, bro!
Down the road other servers to replace the Mac will be an option if you build a library of uncompressed files. If you use crappy iTunes files, you will never get good results. Cheers,
Spencer
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