How to Play iTunes Through My HiFi

i started out with your exact same question and an even smaller budget, and after trying various unsatisfying solutions ended up buying a logitech transporter which i really like. i also got an ipod touch running ipeng as a wifi remote control. i spent a bit more but now my ears are happy too.

i have to agree with ophitoxaemia, i just upgraded my duet to a transporter and cannot be happier. i have to thank richlane, wherever he is, as i did not think it would be much of an upgrade since i was only using the digital out. his posts in the forum detailing his experiences convinced me to give it a try and it has taken my system to the next level...

I use a "HagUsb" USB-to-S/PDIF Converter. I use USB out of my Mac Mini, into the converter, then digital coaxial into my DAC. I also can use at toslink cable. It's designed for Mac. Both of the above methods will get your MacBook connected to your DAC then it's into you system.

http://www.hagtech.com/hagusb.html

http://store.apple.com/us/product/M9573LL/A

A computer server has many way to get to music. I watch music videos on Youtube, Internet radio with iTunes and insert concert DVD's into the Mac's drive and watch while it plays through my main rig. I can also rip all audio output to my hard drive. Lot of options.

the dac 3 has a usb input but it is inferior to the other inputs. if you have a dac 2 already, get an airport express, a good jitter remover (monarchy, genesis, and others), and hook up the jitter device with a toslink from the AE or your macs toslink port, then use a coax from the jitter to the dac2.