[NewMexiCat]

I tried to swear off home rigs, telling myself that portable was all I needed. That didn't last long!

Now, I just want a simple solution for a small form factor computer-based rig. I really like the idea of one box DAC/amp solution, but there always seem to be compromises (i.e. Great DAC/mediocre amp or mediocre DAC/great amp). Knowing that compromises will forever exist in a "one box" solution, I'd appreciate some opinions on what you'd consider to be the best overall balance of quality DAC + quality amp for one box to convert, transport and amplify lossless files from my Mac Mini to my HD650's?

 

[xenithon]

Apogee Mini-DAC. For quite a long period of time it was my sole system and I loved it. Ran an optical cable from the Mac to the Mini-DAC, and used the HD650s straight out of the DAC. Initially it was through the HP out, which is very competent. Then I took the step up and used a balanced cable for the HD650's driven straight out of the Mini-DAC's XLR output....fantastic, clean, simple, elegant, and very satisfying system.