martyw

Hi, I am in the processing of switching to a Peachtree Nova to run my quad 21l2 speakers and have a question about my cd source. On the Peachtree, can I have two inputs to the DAC (one for my computer and one for my cdp)? If so, should I sell my expensive Music Hall cd25.2 and just use the optical out on my secondary dvd player (or just get an oppo dvd player?) Any thoughts? Thanks -- Marty

So here I am with the dilemma: cheap dac as an addition, or better dac and computer/dvd player as cd transport. 1) Use the macbook for internet radio and lossless, as well as a transport to a $300 DAC (Scott Nixon, HRT streamer+) and sell the Music Hall cd player on this website or (2) keep the music hall and get the a $100 dac (streamer, jolida) for mp3 cds and occasional internet radio. I had never really thought about ditching the player entirely and using a computer for both saved music and as a transport but it is becoming more appealing giving the great reviews under $300 dacs are getting. I know this is hard to answer, but what kind of difference would I see by ditching the cdplayer and using a USB or optical DAC and and the macbook ( I guess through the USB or optical out)? When I bought everything, from what I read the Music Hall 25.2 was basically the best in class in my price range (the Rega Apollo was not an option sadly...)

I am looking at the MF V-Dac. Can I use that with my headphones, as well as with my tube amp? Do most budget DACs have an audio output, or do I need to get a separate amp? I would like to spend no more than 300 -- 400, hopefully less. Thanks -- Marty

Thanks -- I clearly have a lot more research to do. Does anyone know about the new Jolida DAC coming out this year for around $100? I have heard good things, but nothing specific. Also, could a DAC help boost bass performance? I love my speakers (Quads) but the bass is not as rich as my much less expansive headphones (Audio Technica M50s). Argh.....

Thanks -- I am interested in the Beresford -- can you tell me a little more about it? The other component I am thinking about is one from VALABS. Thanks -- M

Hi all, Please forgive me for treading old ground, but it seems like there are many new USB/firewire DACs on the market, and I really have no idea what I am doing!! If you can help, I would be most appreciative. Right now I have a system I love: Jolida 302 tube amp, Quad 21l2 speakers, and a Music Hall CDP 25.2. I am slowly re-ripping all of my cds to Apple lossless for my macbook (connected to an external hard drive -- too many cds...). I would like to begin using my mac as a music server, and have been hearing about many good new USB dacs around $200-300, that did not appear to be on the market July '08 when I was shopping for my system (or maybe I was ignorant?) Anyway, can anyone recommend a dac that would work well for jazz and classical chamber music and not break the bank? Between the Jolida and the quads, the bass is not amazing, but my system has great-midrange and enough detail and soundstage to keep me happy given my salary. Thanks!! PS -- Can you run two sources into a DAC? I have an old DVD player that has an optical output. Perhaps I can use that as a cd source with a new DAC and sell the Music Hall?