yaroux

Thanks AudioDoctor for the link, in a hifi shop I've been told that a DAC + amplifier would give a better quality than an amplifier with integrated DAC (for same money) - guessing the quality of an integrated DAC is lower than an external one. If so, I just have to find a good DAC and continue to use my old Marantz, right? If I understand it right, it doesn't matter a "lot" what kind of laptop, sound card or connection type (and afterwards software and type of the audio file) I will buy or do I have to pay a particular attention to some of those points? In another hifi shop, I've been told that a S/PDIF connection would be the best. But only few laptops offer this connection type. Can I use a USB port to connect either to a DAC or to an amplifier with DAC with the same quality? Thank you for a reply. Yann

Hi all, I know I'm not the first Newbie with this request but I cannot find something quickly that could help me. ==> I'm looking for hints and tips for a new system. I have to buy a new laptop (not an Apple) and think to buy a new amplifier if my current one (Marantz Model 1072 - 34 years old) is not competitive anymore. I have about 1'600 US Dollar for a new laptop and about 1'000 US Dollar for a new amplifier. ==> Where can I find some hints in the forum that can help me? Thanx very much in advance for your reply. Cheers, Yann