2. pc-audio
  3. 1164481615

Best path for PC audio into the big rig..

Hi all,

I need help. I've got the urge to incorporate a bunch of ripped audio tracks on my PC into the main stereo system.

All the gear, PC and home audio are in the same room, the 'office'. the listening area is in an adjacent room... with just speakers.

I want to sit in the living room and via a wireless notebook, access those numerous tracks. I've two desktops. One wireless, one wired. both networked... and a fair to middlin' system.

Waht do I need, and how should I proceed. I use itunes on both desktops... and naturally, I can't use a Mac... not that I don't want to. Just can't due to accessibility reasons... nor any other device with a small screen for interface. It'll have to be a notebook for my purposes.

I'd also prefer not to have to use Microsofts "remote access" feature to get at the files, as that would mean another PC needs be online.

Audio quality is also pretty high on the list... my system is resolving, open, a notch past the warm side of neutral with very good extension at both ends, and spooky good in the midrange, especially with Vocals. If some sacrifice needs be made for the sake of conveinence, i'd rather it not be the musicality or hrmonics... and I've not terribly deep pockets.

Can do? ...or can't do...???

Thanks much.
blindjim
blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 
Taking another path, one not restricted to PC/USB solely, many other doors open.

Provided I somehow add a SPDIF/TOS out of the PC via a sound card of some sort or the other, lots of DACs fit the apparent bill, for that use and for other uses too.

Without going to expensive ($500 - $1000), can anyone recommend via personal experience, a worthy DAC that still embodies life of the recording in its presentation??

it must have support available stateside, so maybe some offshore choices are out... and my list gets shorter then and now is filled only with BC... Monarchy #24, and Benchmark. As these are all still in business, a used piece isn't a problem for me.

thanks again...
Post removed 
barrelchief
294 posts
 
Blindjim:

Like you, on my short list are the Monarchy & Benchmark. The 3rd that I am considering (in this price range) is PS Audio's new Digital Link III.

Though there is not a lot of "buzz" out there on this piece, it looks very interesting.
blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 
barelchief

I know what you mean. I've looked at a lot of spots and cant' find anything of note on the PS entry. Apart fromn the fact PS and one other source says it's "warm sounding". Huh. How warm? ..and Comparied to what?

The ones listed here are higher than they should be considering... With only a $100 difference from no warranty to warranty... and the option for return... it's an easy choice which way to go there... for me anyway.

the Monarchy unit seems a good notion... but only the 24. The previous ones, 22 & 33 are not 24/96 DACs. Monarchy though, did say that they recommended their DIP to add to the mix. So to complete that path the price for new is $1300 + shipping (appox)

That being said, I did make some inquiries to buy a couple listed Mon DACs, but either was too slow or never got any responses. and with a new Mon I'm giving up the XLR connection to the preamp... and have to do two boxes and more ICs... which for me would not be a good thing.

Stello? I've since given up almost entirely there. try to find a Stello dealer carrying current inventory.. stateside. Good Luck. None of those listed as dealers at the April Music site either now carry the line, or will even return calls. Neither does april Music. I've tried several times to contact them directly. Nada. zilch. If stello is that hard to buy... how hard is it to get it fixed if something goes awry? Or just need info at some point? If that isn't a concern I don't know what is.

At this point I'm inclined to either get a very good deal on a DAC, or simply wait for more info... and funds so as to go with perhaps the BC3, which, on papre fills the bill. Audibly? there too I can't say now but hope some press from owners of more than just BC is forthcoming..

For to take a chance and then have to resell if not a good fit, the item needs some degree of popularity... and easily obtainable support. IMHO
blindjim OP
3,092 posts
 

OK.... The decision is made. MSB link III w/Modright mods, a PC, network card and outboard pwr sup is my choice for a PC + ? DAC. Just gotta wait on it to arrive.
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