Sound through Macbook vs DAC

Paradisea for $250?? That would be a heck of a deal, new is about $600, with older models used for maybe $350. It is a good NOS DAC, but if you're looking at ones like the Benchmark or Bel Canto DAC3 (two would be cheaper) then the Apogee is a better suggestion. The Monarch is also a good choice.

You could try the Airport Express if you're happy with your soundcard(?), though it's certainly nothing to get excited about.

if the ONLY aspect you'll use a DAC for is pc/mac audio out, quite a few DACs will be at a premium... as the balance of the DACs versatility will be truncated severely by that approach... unless you're considering a budget approach.

The apogee mention is a good one. I own the Bel Canto DAC 3. Initially, I felt pc music through it was great! actually I still do, but I've not stopped looking for another option or path.

The BC DAC 3 does afford one more than just usb audio. It is limited too by it's 16/44.1K input via USB.

With other imputs, it can handle up to 24/96 PCM data. What I've heard recently by way of upsampled music from the 16/44 to 24/96, and 24/192 is showing itself as becoming more rounded, smoother, and with more dimensionality, as the rates go up. IMO.

AS I do take advantage of the flexibility of the DAC3's inputs, it's a good enough value for me, for now. A very fine performer all around.... but used just for PC/Mac audio? I wouldn't say it is.

So do think about current AND future needs too while you ponder which way to go, or what to get, and of course, your systems needs too. Good luck.

Hi, Buy your self the new emmLabs DAC 2 CD/SACD (If Budget Allows).
Cheers Jason.
www.parmentersound.com

emmLabs DAC 2
emmLabs DAC2 AUDIO CONVERTER for CD/SACD & DSD.

The DAC2 is a high-performance stereo D/A converter with a wide variety of user selectable digital inputs.

It has evolved from EMM Labs acclaimed converter systems which are used worldwide in professional studios to create some of the finest recordings.

The DAC2 provides conversion from a wide variety of digital input formats, including USB Audio for computers, media systems and digital audio playback machines making it an extremely flexible converter system that can act as a standalone conversion hub to a host of digital sources.

The DAC2 has:
* EMM Labs proprietary internal MDAT algorithm to up-sample and condition digital audio to twice the SACD/DSD sample rate.

* Ed Meitners proprietary discrete Dual Differential DAC circuit.

* Uses our exclusive aerospace grade composite laminate circuit boards.

The DAC2, when paired with an EMM Labs transport, performs as an unparalleled CD/SACD playback system.

Features & Specifications 2-Channel D/A conversions:

* from PCM (44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz) to analog
* from DSD to analog Supported digital input formats:
* AES/EBU (1 connector)
* SPDIF (Coax)
* Two Optical TOSLink SPDIF
* EMM OptiLink
* USB Audio Analog outputs and impedances
* Balanced on XLR (100)
* Unbalanced on RCA (50)

User selectable levels:
Low position:
* XLR outputs: 4V (+14.38dBu)
* RCA outputs: 2V (+8.353dBu)

High position:
* XLR outputs: 7.2V (+19.38dBu)
* RCA outputs: 3.6V (+13.34dBu)

* Factory set to 100V or 115V or 230V, 50/60Hz operation
* Power consumption: 50W
* Remote control: Infrared
* Dimensions W x D x H: 435 x 400 x 92mm
* Weight: 12kg

The emmLabs DAC2 is controlled by an internal processor that can be programmed with software to enhance or add new features for future upgrades.

So, jasonparmenter, does budget allow? How much would my budget have to be to buy me

the new emmLabs DAC 2 CD/SACD (If Budget Allows)

?

Since nobody mentioned it, RWA Isabellina NOS non-upsampling, non-oversampling DAC for $2500 or $1500 option for Isabella preamp.
I am not what you might call "DAC expert" but after hearing quite a few fine DACs lately, I believe that Isabella is on par or above competition......at least in its asking price range.
I can not recommend it or guaranty that it will be to your taste ....but if digital reproduction shortcomings like edginess and lock of body/emotions are what stopped you from enjoying your favorite music, I would at least give it a shot with 30 days money back warranty.

There are probably better choices out there but I would seriously doubt if I could afford it.
After a long while, I am starting to enjoy my digital ones again.
If that isn't the the sign of a really great product, I do not know what is.

Mariusz