Now that HD space has gotten relatively inexpensive I've decided to re-rip my CD's in a lossless format (Apple Lossless). I think the weak link in my system (NAD pre-amp, Hafler DH-200, Elan II's) is the DAC. I have been using an Airport Express or iMic to get into the NAD. As a test I hooked up my MOTU HD 896 using the Firewire output of my Macbook, assuming the DAC's in it had to be better than the AX or iMic, and the difference is quite remarkable.
I need to keep the MOTU separate, however, so it seems I'm in the market for a DAC, or maybe a pre-amp with digital in. Can anyone advise me on what to check out? My budget is maybe $1000, but less would be even better. I don't need something that's beyond the quality of my other components since I'm pretty satisfied and can't afford to upgrade everything at this time.
I've seen the Benchmark line - DAC1 (liked it)- also was considering something like a Squeezebox. I looked at a Peach Tree Audio Decco today, but couldn't find any specs on the DAC they use (and it looked a little funny).
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Now that HD space has gotten relatively inexpensive I've decided to re-rip my CD's in a lossless format (Apple Lossless). I think the weak link in my system (NAD pre-amp, Hafler DH-200, Elan II's) is the DAC. I have been using an Airport Express or iMic to get into the NAD. As a test I hooked up my MOTU HD 896 using the Firewire output of my Macbook, assuming the DAC's in it had to be better than the AX or iMic, and the difference is quite remarkable.
I need to keep the MOTU separate, however, so it seems I'm in the market for a DAC, or maybe a pre-amp with digital in. Can anyone advise me on what to check out? My budget is maybe $1000, but less would be even better. I don't need something that's beyond the quality of my other components since I'm pretty satisfied and can't afford to upgrade everything at this time.
I've seen the Benchmark line - DAC1 (liked it)- also was considering something like a Squeezebox. I looked at a Peach Tree Audio Decco today, but couldn't find any specs on the DAC they use (and it looked a little funny).
Any suggestions would be appreciated.