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edholman

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  1. I am keen to set up a stereo music system based on a Mac Mini in my 13' x 16' master bedroom. I am not a true HiFi geek: my source material will simply be pop/rock CDs and same ripped to 256k MP3s, ambient, iTunes, audiobooks, pod casts, and occasional classical. I am also keen on keeping the setup simple, with powered speakers like a pair of Mackie's, using the XLR inputs. I would like to spend enough to be very pleased with the system. I have the ability to spend $4000 or so, but if I could spend just $1600 and be just as pleased, I'd like to go that route. A system I had back in the 1990's consisted of a pair of KEF Uni-Q C55's on solid steel stands, driven by a Yamaha receiver, Yamaha CD player and Sony Minidisc. I was very pleased with the audio performance of this system, and would like something as good for my bedroom. I'm looking at two routes, and am interested possible permutations for value/performance: 1. Low Cost: Mackie MR8's sourced right from the audio out port on the Mac Mini (using cabling needed to go from 1/4" photo to XLR). I would use the Mac Mini remote for volume control (or iPod touch iTunes interface). Setup cost around $1500. 2. High Cost: Mackie HR824's sourced from Mac Mini USB through a high end DAC such as Bel Canto DAC1.5 with power conditioner, Benchmark DAC1 HDR, or similar. Setup cost around $4200. My question is: would the first configuration get me 99% of the fidelity I'm looking for (based on my experience with 1990's technology)? Or will another $2700 really blow my socks off? I don't have any experience with these DACs and PC HiFi, so I'm in the dark on this one. - Are there less expensive DACs (with remote volume control) I have overlooked and should be considering? (Cambridge DACMagic - but no remote volume control. TC Electronic level pilot is an option...but means running XLR cable back and forth across the room). - Are there any other preferred ways to get audio out of the Mac Mini other than USB? (for fidelity reasons?) - Are there any other components or configurations that would deliver high value per dollar spent? Other powered speakers I should consider? Thanks for any suggestions.
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