laptop to analog, any suggestions?


I'm looking for a good way to hook my PC up to my stereo. The output on my laptop is a noisy 1/8" jack, so i was thinking maybe an external d/a converter. Do they work off of a USB connection to a computer, and how would i play MP3 files?

Thanks for your help,
Dan
dk89
I will offer yet another recommendation for the LinkSys Wireless Music Bridge (WMB54G). $80.95 + shipping (Office Depot). Connect to the laptop wirelessly (duh!) or using an Ethernet cable. You can then use the WMB's RCA out or its Coax Digital out if you have a Coax Digital in on your preamp.

This unit sounds great, is easy to setup, and is dirt-friggin'-cheap.

-RW-
Try unplugging the AC power supply to run on battery power. I experienced a substantial noise reduction and increased dynamics doing this. Another good and cheap USB solution is the Philips PSC805 Aurilium, which can be found on ebay for around $50. The Sound Agent software it comes with is good also.
Wow, i had no idea this could be done so cheaply, thanks alot guys. My price range is around $100 (I really thought it was a shot in the dark). I really don't need something for critical listening, that's what CD's are for. I'll give your suggestions a good look.
I am using a Emu 1616M. Very open and spacious sound. Excel image layering. Best $499 I've ever spent in audio.

Peter Breuninger