[ed45]

I’ve been running in circles trying to select components for my first computer audio system system (dac, speakers and headphones).
 
My budget is approximately $1K, the system will be running off of a late 2012 iMac, and I’ve already settled on Emotiva Airmotiv 4 speakers.
 
For the dac/amp I want something that will allow me to seamlessly switch between speakers and headphones. I’m leaning towards the Audio-gd NFB 15.32, but I’m also wondering if the Meridian Explorer would provide the same or superior SQ with additional portability? Has anyone had the opportunity to compare the two? Are both compatible with the USB 3 ports on my iMac? Would the Meridian be able to drive headphones as well as the 15.32? Has anyone tried pairing either with Airmotiv 4s?
 
Thanks for your feedback. Any advice is appreciated.
 
Ed

 

[PurpleAngel]

  I’ve been running in circles trying to select components for my first computer audio system system (dac, speakers and headphones).
My budget is approximately $1K, the system will be running off of a late 2012 iMac, and I’ve already settled on Emotiva Airmotiv 4 speakers.
For the dac/amp I want something that will allow me to seamlessly switch between speakers and headphones. I’m leaning towards the Audio-gd NFB 15.32, but I’m also wondering if the Meridian Explorer would provide the same or superior SQ with additional portability? Has anyone had the opportunity to compare the two? Are both compatible with the USB 3 ports on my iMac? Would the Meridian be able to drive headphones as well as the 15.32? Has anyone tried pairing either with Airmotiv 4s?

I just ordered the 15.32 three days ago myself.
I can't see how the Meridian Explorer could match the the 15.32.
The Meridian might be very good sounding and it's portable, but so far I can't see it offering anything that could "match" the 15.32.

 

[ed45]

 Additional research seems to indicate that the Meridian, while great for a portable dac, has its limitations - just as you suggest. Thanks for the useful feedback.