Which DAC for my HP mini?

Hi all,
Looking for some rec's for an affordable DAC to interface my HP mini Laptop to my system. Budget is around $400.00
Thanks for the help

skipper32012-29-2011 11:35pm

foster_9 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,610 posts 12-30-2011 at 01:44pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Whatever you do, be sure to buy a dac(s) that can be auditioned and returned if not to your liking. The HRT Streamer II+ deserves a listen.
timlub Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,649 posts 12-31-2011 at 10:25pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete MF VDAC II Schiit Audio Bifrost MHDT Havana DAC Magic plus Yulong D100 HRT Music Streamer II+ All have their strengths and weaknesses, read up alot of bang for the buck.
pulsetsar Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 9 posts 01-01-2012 at 07:14pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete HRT streamers get powered by the USB interface and are notorious for clipping / dropout problems at 96 kHz / 24 bit. Be aware that most people will need an externally powered USB hub and/or a PCI USB expansion card (motherboard bandwidth for on-board ports is variable but can be quite crappy even on high end boards). In my case I needed both for optimal sound without clipping at 96/24.