Interface question with 2 yamaha hs50m studio monitors and a hs10w subwoofer

[joshwh601]

i just recently made the decision to switch from my basic 100 dollar 2.1 computer speaker system that just plugged into the back of my computer with a normal speaker jack to a very pricey system that consists of two yamaha hs50m studio monitors and a yamaha hs10w subwoofer.  i was told i needed to buy a audio interface along with in that connects via usb to my computer. i was wondering since in very new to this whole audio interface, which one to buy that will support my two studio monitors and subwoofer and how am i going to set them up? i heard the best way to set them up is to use a XLR cable from the monitors to the interface. any suggestions for a audio interface that supports the two speakers and what cables to buy.

 

[Mauricio]

What's your budget?
 
I also own that Yamaha 2.1 system.  Ideally you'd stream the music from your laptop to a DAC, and then feed the Yamaha subwoofer from the DAC via XLR connections.  The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus DAC has XLR outputs, but it will set you back $600.  Otherwise, buy an HRT Streamer DAC, and feed the subwoofer from the unbalanced outputs of the DAC.

 

[JRG1990]

The emu 0404 usb has balanced outputs, you could connect them up to your pc you need 3.5mm to dual ts cable and xlr to xlr for the sub to the monitors, but a extenal dac would be better.

 

[Coolzo]

I recommend the Focusrite Saffire or Scarlett lines. Many of the Saffires make use of firewire (the USB 6 is one exception), while the Scarletts all use USB (24/96 async), and they all have balanced TRS outputs. I use the Scarlett 8i6 to feed my HS50Ms. Also, the DACs sound very good; for me, it was a clear upgrade over my Essence ST.

 

[joshwh601]

whats the cheapest audio interface that will work I'm trying to keep this under a $1000