battleship

Thanks that looks like a tidy option!

They are passive.

I guess I am hoping to gain a smaller footprint (component-wise), and a more energy efficient receiver (from my 90's JVC receiver - it gets hot and sucks energy). My budget ~$350. Like I said, I actually do like the sound I am getting now - with the components I have, I just want to downsize a bit. This JVC and NHTs can pound out some sound. There's no doubt about it. I really appreciate the feedback you all are providing.

That's a good point, definitely a plus over an all-in-one box.

Thank you both! The DDA100 looks sweet, but alas is a bit over budget. I've never seen the Modi before. That looks promising. I especially like that it's BUS powered. I have enough power cords! Maybe I could start with the Modi and upgrade my amp later.

You are correct, the built in DAC makes me lean towards the NuForce. I left out the connection bit. I am currently using a 3.5mm stereo to RCA. I believe I could use this same connection with the Emotiva.

Hey, I've been a lurker for sometime and finally making a post! I'd like to change one part of my current system, but I'm not sure if it's worth it. Currently I am set up like this: iMac/iTunes/AIFF > 90's JVC receiver > NHT SB1s (BTW I really, really like these speakers it's too bad this company kinda floundered) I rip all my CDs thru DBPoweramp on an old PC laptop. I rip using Chris's guide. So I have FLAC and AIFFs. But use the Mac for playback and eventually I'd like to use JRiver to play the FLACs back. I'd like to replace my receiver with something smaller and less of an energy hog. I actually really, really like the sound this setup provides and I know it's nothing compared to a lot of the members on this forum, but it works for me. I was thinking of a NuForce Icon 2 or Emotiva mini-X-a-100... yea/nay? Anyways, thanks for this forum and I appreciate any advice.