TRANSPORTER???

The idea of having a separate transport is to optimize and isolate each component, theoretically for better sound. The transport will take care of the mechanics, display, remote features, and retrieving the digital data from the the disc, however it needs to be converted to an analog signal before it can be amplified (preamp, integrated, etc.). Then there is the DAC (digital-analog converter). Having a separate DAC enables one to experiment with different designs and provides the proper analog source outlets to your preamp, integrated amp or receiver. In addition to the outputs that mattmiller listed above, some transports and DAC’s have AES/EBU (balanced), spdif (BNC) and AT&T optical. To complete the system you will need some type of single digital cable in the format of your choice. I think the best cable choice is AES/EBU (wire) and AT&T (optical), however this connection is rare to find.

Thanks for the help, folks. I was looking at the oppo 205 last night. This thing looks like it can deliver audio from any medium except tape and lp’s. Out of my budget but I can be patient and save for a couple more months. Any thoughts for a novice choosing this oppo?

I like the two separate DAC’s, one dedicated for stereo output, of which balanced outputs are offered. To wit, I have balanced connectors and inputs on my preamp and my main audio medium will be digital. My stepfather has a vintage turntable and reel to reel that I secretly smile and wink at when I visit my parents and consider the empty space that they will fill in my system one day. Until I get to fiddle with those toys it’s my 300 disc collection and I like the looks of services like Roon.

So we have a Spreadhead secretly plotting his parents demise in his lust for a reel to reel player? So typical. :p Seriously though the Oppo is a very solid unit and quite flexible. A good starting point for novice audiophile. Cheers!