the imac has both analog and digital outputs from the same 3.5 mm jack   right now i just have a 3.5 mm to RCA cord from the iMac to my vintage MCS 3835 integrated amp

thanks, i will look into that

thanks for your info. one more question, how much of a difference will i notice from my iMac if i use an outboard DAC? that is why i want to start on the low end (price)

http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?partnumber=180-998   was wondering if it's worth it, since this would be my first DAC   thanks

ok, i might be able to go down to 10ft   thanks

ok, i was hoping to use a longer USB cable and my .5 meter Kimber PBJs my computer is in the next room, will a long cable cause a lot of issues?

that's the one i've been looking at

would this USB cable be ok between my iMac and DAC?   http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?partnumber=130-047

Hello, i'm not new to computer audio, but i'm new to the world of outboard DACs. Can anyone give me some ideas on a good entry-level USB DAC. i will be used with my iMac and a vintage MCS 3835 stereo integrated amp. Right now i'm using the headphone jack on the iMac. Will i notice a...