I am currently running iTunes on a Core2Duo 2Ghz Macbook with music ripped at 256kbps/48khz VBR. I will probably up the sampling with external storage later.

I have an Airport Express handling the stereo connection and I am using the analog coaxial port with a split cable to get to my 12 year old Sony A/V receiver (no Toslink inputs).

My ears are better than my equipment. Looking for thoughts. I began searching for a DAC to utilize the Toslink on the AE. Now with all of the advantages of Squeezebox, I am rethinking the approach.

I found this site while looking for a DAC and I see at least one of you is using a similar approach. Still buy an external DAC if I go with the Squeezebox? I have another friend who is in the same position but he is trying to use his old McIntosh receiver. What DAC works best with AE & Squeezebox. Pardon me in advance is this is a poorly worded question. Looking for lessons learned or links that will educate.

Almost any dac you replace the airport express with is going to sound much better. You can use the toslink, which is fine. But if you do not connect the toslink to a receiver, but to a dac, i would not go for that option. I would connect it via usb. Play around with the midi options, your dac settings, the volume buttons, the receiver and stuff. You'll be amazed how much difference it can make to change a few settings.

For me this works best:

MacBook <--> 5m USB cable --> DAC --> T-amp --> Speakers

44100 hz, 2 channel 16 bits in Midi-settings on OSX

I turn down bass and treble in he software (ToolPlayer) and hardware. Then drive up the sound with the volume button. It works for me.

Hope this helps.

With regards,