PhishRabbi

I tend to use itunes with audio MIDI setup set to 88.2 kHz for everything. I couldn't tell the difference in a blind test between the original file through Decibel @ 44.1 and the upsampled file @ 88.1- Though I haven't treid any tests with higher sample rate material. The reason for this is that the remote app for my phone works really well, and I find it the best way to sit on the couch and listen, or play DJ from anywhere in the house. I do use Decibel for "serious" listening for two reasons: 1. It is cool to watch the sample rate light switch automatically on the DAC. (I suppose there is some audiophile comfort in knowing that the dac is receiving the file as it sits on the drive. 2. Hog mode assures that no beep or alert from the OS or any other program spoils my listening pleasure. I believe the folks who hear bog differences with software, I just think those differences are attributable to psychological factors (expectation bias, etc.)

I am currently using 3TB drives (the Library is now just over 2TB). I don't use a RAID setup, just periodically dump to backups. (The files are all Apple Lossless 16/44.1, 16/48, 24/44.1, 24/48. 24/88.2 & 24/96) I have one main drive connected to the Computer/Rig. Another backup in house, and a third off-site (Safe deposit box in bank). All drives fail. when, not if. So I buy the cheapest I can find and backup often.

It's easier/cheaper to make a 1/4 to rca cable than it is to make an xlr> rca cable: no need to worry which pin is hot, no need to worry about overloading the inputs on the other end (assuming the 1/4 jacks are unbalanced.). Unless you are using balanced inputs, there is no reason to use xlr. also no need for adaptors, just get a cable with a 1/4 inch jack on one end and rca on the other.

I'd use the TRS 1/4 inch jacks to rca if you go that route.