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Apogee Mini DAC: Connection questions

I have recently purchased an Apogee Mini DAC. It sounds incredible. I bought the non-USB version and am connecting it to my computer via a U24 Waveterminal card. I have a couple of questions:

1. Would I get a better sound if I purchased the USB card unit for the Mini-DAC? Or is the sound better going from a quality external card like the U24.

2. I am currently using a glass toslink to connect the mini dac to my waveterminal. I have heard people say coax is better, but others have said toslink is better when computers are involved. Any insights?

Thanks.

dshea
dshea_32665
audioodyssey
18 posts
 
Try a 12V lead acid battery on the Mini-DAC. I put one on mine and the difference is HUGE versus the stock wall wart.
dshea_32665 OP
28 posts
 
Bought two last week. You are right, the difference is significant! Thanks for the advice, I remembered reading your earlier posts.

cheers,
pardales
652 posts
 
I am getting one of these too. Is there anyone who makes an audiophile grade USB cord? I have seen that Belkin offers a gold plated USB....am I being silly?
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,216 posts
 
Yes, you're being silly, but the difference in price is trivial, so go for it.
dshea_32665 OP
28 posts
 
Hey guys, I have been really loving my Mini DAC driving balanced HD650s from the XLR outputs. I keep thinking I need an amp, not because I am missing anything in the sound (it sounds incredible for classical music which is what I listen to), but because I guess I have upgraditus.

Any recommendations? What are all of you using? What price point am I looking to notice any improvement?

cheers,
dshea
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