Streaming iTunes

I do just that....and while it is fine....I simply leave all the 'settings' off.
NO EQ.
Also, the output jitter of the AE is awful. Some DACs simply will not reliably lock on that signal. If you get a screeching or fingers on chalk board noise, that's it.

Record in ALAC or other lossless format. MP3? Ok, for background use and in the car. All my files are in both formats and their own playlists.

Yes, I've been using an Airport Express for streaming for a few years, both the original 811g and now the 811n models. I leave the EQ off completely and the electronic volume control all the way up.

I had a few problems with the earlier 811g getting interference from a 2.4 Ghz cordless phone and a microwave but solved that by switching channels within the AE. The 811n has never had any problem with interference.

I've used three different DAC's with them and never had a problem with signal locking.

I use a glass Toslink cable and mostly Apple Lossless files plus some high bit rate mp3 files. The setup sounds great and is very easy to use.

Thanks, guys. Much appreciated. It does sound pretty decent...in fact, I punted my Cary CD player earlier this year for this set-up.

I use the pre "on," setting to give the signal a bit of a boost, I don't think the AE outputs a very hot signal...seems to add a little to the punch..