Optimal audio from my laptop

[neil5561]

Hey,

I'm trying to find the best way to get the best audio I can out of my laptop computer. Right now I connect my laptop to my dad's old amplifier which goes out to a decent set of speakers (Koss M80's, 30W, 6 ohms). The problem is that the amplifier is over 25 years old and is on its last legs so I was looking for a new way to set everything up. I came along this product:

Yamaha AP-U70

It hooks up to the computers USB port so it gets better audio then out of the regular headphone jack. Is this a good solution? I only listen to music out of my computer so support for things like Dolby Digital and DTS are not that important. Like I said I have a laptop so a new soundcard is kind of immpossible. Another idea I had was to buy this, the Xitel HiFi Link, and then buying a refurbished receiver like this Onkyo. Which one of these solutions would be better? Any other ideas?

Thanks.

 

[mlchang]

Cmoy, the owner of headwize reviewed this thing
Echo Indigo

Might be an option for you.

 

[Wodgy]

I've tried the M-Audio Sonica, Xitel Hi-Fi Link, and Stereo-Link 1200 with my laptop, and of the three, the Sonica has the best sound quality. I really wouldn't recommend the Xitel unit; it has the worst sound of the three. Haven't heard the Yamaha. You'll probably be happiest with the Sonica and a vintage/refurbished receiver.

 

[neil5561]

Thanks for the help!