Hi,
Sorry, I forgot to say that I use an older Mac Book Pro (early 2008), running El Capitan, OS X 10.11.2. (I do like Linux too and will probably get a second, Linux system). Currently, I have some CDs (mostly my classical stuff) imported into iTunes (not my favorite program but it works for now).
Also, for context, I should have said that I'm looking for the best quality sound I can get. I know some might say my Carver system is not in the top echelon of audio electronics. But it's quite good and not the limiting factor. I'd like a DAC that presents quality at a level at least as good as what the Carver can produce. Later, when I go full digital, I'll replace with audiophile grade system components. And the AR-9s, well, they speak for themselves....
Would I input the digitally encoded music file directly into the DAC? I guess that programs such as iTunes don't do this but output an analog signal only, correct? So I need a DAC appliance (hardware and software), right? Or, do I install DAC software on my computer which would read the digital music file from my CD or hard disk?
I am presuming that a lot of research is needed to pick compatible components in the digital world. I have read articles that talk about how DAC software or appliances use widely varying algorithms for decoding that produce very different sounding music (from the same source). Although theoretically not necessary, I'm surmising that matching the DAC with the pre-amp and amp might be a good idea. Thus, for now, I should go with something that simply gives me the quality I want until I can get a proper full system. Is my thinking on the right track...?
In that context, do you have any suggestions for specific DAC products that would be suitable? I'll look at Tidal as you suggested, esldude. I'll also look at Chrome Cast Audio. I did read a review recently that said they increased the sample rate that Chrome Cast is able to play.
Many thanks....
