Sound Quality: Computer vs. CD Player

Ok, I'll say this now. Using a computer for a transport is NOT advisable for a top-notch kit. Think about it...a CD-ROM drive is generally the cheapest transport the manufacturer can use to spec. Computers throw off HORDES of RF interference. The fan creates high frequency vibrations. The digital signal is carried through FAR more ciruitry than your average transport. I used my computer for a transport as a lark, and it was terrible. Everything closed in, and the noise floor exploded. If this is your only convienient viable alternative, then go for it, but I would advise against it. IMHO, computers make for crummy transports. Cheers!

Dear Friends:

Thanks for your fast responses!

To clarify my question, my intent is to use my computer to sample and play music directly from the WEB - not to use the cd-rom as a transport. I'd like to eliminate a transport and dac entirely for this purpose!

I use a computer for mp3's and the kids music. I have tried many different cd-rom's with digital out an external DAC and they do not even come close to comparing to a good cd player. But then my main system is almost completly Cary.

Can anyone recommend a sound card for a compaq PC with spdif out?

Get a grip people.
Not even remotly close.
I will put my 10 year old Nikko thats in a third system up againt any computer.
Dont be fooled.
its the big lie all over again.Its like the hype lie we where fed 20 Years ago.REMEMBER PERFEXCT SOUND FOREVER.WAKE UP PEOPLE
ALL THE SHEEP GOT RID OF THEIR VINYL.
SHOULD WE NOT LEARN FROM OUR MISTAKES.