It's not the "hard drive" that is the problem. Its the internal clock jitter and the S/PDIF interface.
I recommend using an external USB converter or USB DAC. Most of these will have lower jitter. The new ones support up to 192kHz sample-rate. Playback with Amarra, Pure Music or Ayrewave is a must. Avoid using just itunes.
Also, rip CD's with XLD with Accurate-Rip not iTunes:
http://tmkk.pv.land.to/xld/index_e.html
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
I recommend using an external USB converter or USB DAC. Most of these will have lower jitter. The new ones support up to 192kHz sample-rate. Playback with Amarra, Pure Music or Ayrewave is a must. Avoid using just itunes.
Also, rip CD's with XLD with Accurate-Rip not iTunes:
http://tmkk.pv.land.to/xld/index_e.html
Steve N.
Empirical Audio