Hi

I did some searches here but did not get any results I could use. Mind helping me in the following matter:

I do have a HighEnd system with a built in DAC, which can play back digital signals via an RCA-SPDIF input as well (up to 24 bit 192 kHz, I think, but at least 24/96).
I'd like to use a barebone system to store my CDs using EAC onto the HD and play back my own stereo 24bit/192kHz recordings as well from that computer

So all I need is an USB2.0 to SPDIF (NON-optical connection!!!) converter. It does not have the provide any analogue conversion, analogue out etc.

- Where would I find such a "converter"
- Would it be able to do bit-exact playback on a WIN XP SP2 system? Or would it be influenced by that "correction" WINXP does (sorry, just don't know the right term)
- Does that adaptor have any influence on the sound quality - in other words: is the components quality a factor in that case?
- Do I need special drivers?
- Would you be able to do some suggestions as of which Software player to use, maybe some "frontend" on how to get the files organized and displayed on the screen, as well?

Thanks
Joerg

Several brands offer such USB-units. In most cases, they do come with an analogue section, so you'll have to pay for that part too.

If you don't necessarily need an external unit, consider an internal extension card (which would be a pretty regular soundcard!). You've more options there, and it will save some money.

I don't know all the brands to consider by heart. Generally well-available products are from M-audio and Terratec. See their websites.



With the right hardware, you may use ASIO or Kernel Streaming to get bit-exact playback (look for these terms on this forum). I'm not aware if Kernel Streaming is available for USB-units (I think not), but I believe ASIO is.



Generally, you should be fine if the connection works. Digital connections are very robust...

The purists will tell you to get a unit that can be clock-slaved to your DAC. I'm neutral in advising here, since I've no hands-on experience. I do think it is a very cool feature ... however, I've never made use of that option on my own soundcard yet.



Just sound device drivers, with ASIO support if you're opting for that. Nothing exotic.

Software: I started using Foobar2000, but I've never looked any further since. That's both a recommendation and a disclaimer

Have a look at M-Audio Sonica Theater (USD 119.95 MSRP)

EDIT: Generally speaking, if you have a Firewire bus, I'd go for a Firewire soundcard instead of a USB based. The reasons are many and might differ from brand to brand and from computer to computer, but a USB soundcard will put a heavier load on your computer and you might get a bigger latency (even if you are using ASIO drivers).

Other models that might be interesting: Terratec Producer Phase 24 FW, Edirols lineup, M-Audio Firewire Solo. Thare are many cards out there.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?...N82E16829118107

From what I can tell, that only has an optical out and he needs a coax (RCA) out.