What do I need to connect computer to DAC

The M2Tech Hi Face is a converter that plugs directly into the USB A port on your computer. No need for a USB cable. Comes with RCA or BCN output. I use one with my Apple MacBook pro.

Consider a streamer from Sonore (Small Green Computer web site). I have been using the microRendu for over 5 years and it still works great. It is now almost 30% lower in cost to what I paid (with power supply). I think it is one of the best LOW cost options, there are a lot of others.

You would connect your home network Ethernet to the input of the microRendu and then output the USB into your DAC. You control everything via the computer.

This also opens up the ability to use ROON. I imagine JRiver software is also supported with the microRendu. If you use ROON you also get control via computer, tablet, and phone. If you have a direct connection via the computer to the DAC (without the microRendu) you can only control the stream from the computer.

I only mention this product because your asked about a computer to a DAC, just like I have it setup. You could also not use your computer and get an audio server (not for me though).

BTW - if you do not have Ethernet close to your DAC then there are low cost options like PowerLine products that use the copper in your house electrical to get the network to the power outlet. Very cheap.

Awesome content

Thanks, everyone for your suggestions. 

jafreeman675 : Re: Your comment about transferring CDs to digital files affecting quality: I transferred to FLAC files, I doubt (hope that) the transfer itself to an uncompressed format would ruin the quality.