If you are assuming that you are in the minority because you want to use an external DAC, I'd have to say that you are wrong.
I any case, I suppose your options would greatly depend upon the amount of money that you want to throw at this.
Many here run a Squeezebox Touch. It's cheap, it can sound very good, can handle high res files up to 24bit 192khz, and is compatible with a wide range of file formats (which most of the "higher end" models aren't).
Although it is a bit quirky on occasion, it is a very good bang for the buck. For what its worth, the Touch is on Computer Audiophile's list of suggested hardware. I run mine pulling files off of an NAS and really like the results that I get.
I any case, I suppose your options would greatly depend upon the amount of money that you want to throw at this.
Many here run a Squeezebox Touch. It's cheap, it can sound very good, can handle high res files up to 24bit 192khz, and is compatible with a wide range of file formats (which most of the "higher end" models aren't).
Although it is a bit quirky on occasion, it is a very good bang for the buck. For what its worth, the Touch is on Computer Audiophile's list of suggested hardware. I run mine pulling files off of an NAS and really like the results that I get.