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Hi-end sound from iTunes running on MacPro

Like many, I have found myself with an extensive iTunes library of music, most is now converted to "lossless" format. My desire for hi-end playback has become rekindled and I am wondering what my options are. My "good stuff" is 20 years old. I have a Theta DS Pro Basic Dac along with a Theta Jade transport for CD play. The Dac has one RCA digital input (and perhaps a balanced jack as well). My power amp is a Boulder 500 and a pair of B&W 801 Matrix speakers. I like my Theta DS Pro Basic but it is a dinosaur, perhaps ready to retire.
I am hoping that my MacPro digital output (USB or Toslink) can be used by a DAC for "hi-end" playback. Using the micro plug analog from the Mac to my preamp yields modest results.
I am hoping someone can give me direction on what would be a reasonable DAC vs what is a reasonable expectation on quality of play back.
I have found many options from $14 to $20K and I am finding it difficult to find good definitive advise. Please help.
georgedunham
metralla
945 posts
 
I believe it's still a volatile marketplace. The good thing is that the DACs for file servers are not that expensive. The one to watch at the moment appears to be the Mytek at $1500. Connect to your MacPro using FireWire. You can use the balanced outputs to your preamp.

I own the Metric Halo LIO-8 which has a more complex set of features, was twice the price, and has very good sound. But if I were buying today, I'd try the Mytek.

Regards,
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
First, upgrade your iTunes playback performance by purchasing Pure Music. This runs in conjunction with iTunes and makes it sound better.

Then, make sure you rip with the best software, not itunes. Rip using free XLD:

http://tmkk.pv.land.to/xld/index_e.html

Ripping to AIFF or ALAC format is not as good a .wav, but retains all of the tags.

Then select the best USB interface so that jitter is minimized. This is actually more important than the DAC. Most DACs have poor built-in async or adaptive USB interfaces.

USB converter options that do not dissappoint are: Empirical Audio Off-Ramp 5, Synergistic Research, Diverter HR and if you are on a budget, Audiophilleo.

Then, get a decent DAC like Wired 4 Sound DAC2 or Metrum Octave. Some like the Rega. The W4S DAC2 when driven from I2S cable is world-class. Sound like you have never heard before.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
georgedunham OP
2 posts
 
Silly question but..... what can be done with my current library of iTunes music? and... is there a similar music database like iTunes store where I can find an extensive library of WAV or FLAC?
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