Mac mini to integrated amp question

[ematthews]

I have been running my computer as follows and want to know if this is OK.
I think it sounds fine.
Computer out through the headphone jack into a rca splitter that hooks into the Video/aux in. I just put it on video when I run the Itunes through my system.
Is this OK or am I missing out on something

I see a lot of write up on Computer to DAC to Stereo..
Is this the correct way to run it? I don't own a external DAC so I was wondering if I should get one since most of the time I listen to music from You Tube, Pandora and Itunes through my system speakers

 

[JohnA]

The mini has an optical output doesn't it? That would be better.

 

[ematthews]

The mini has an optical output doesn't it? That would be better.

I don't think mine does. Maybe. It's about three years old. In any case My Stereo does not have optical in.. Unless this is what the external DAC would link between for

 

[JohnA]

I don't think mine does. Maybe. It's about three years old. In any case My Stereo does not have optical in.. Unless this is what the external DAC would link between for

What version mini is it? Also what receiver do you have?

 

[dkane360]

The mini doesn't have a separate optical out, it's built into the 3.5mm output. You need a specific type of optical cable to use it.

For only $2.03 each when QTY 50+ purchased - 6ft Toslink to Mini M/M 5.0mm OD Molded Cable | Toslink to Mini Plug

 

[ematthews]

The mini doesn't have a separate optical out, it's built into the 3.5mm output. You need a specific type of optical cable to use it.

For only $2.03 each when QTY 50+ purchased - 6ft Toslink to Mini M/M 5.0mm OD Molded Cable | Toslink to Mini Plug

So if your receiver doesn't have optical in, you wouldn't be able to use this.
My receiver is a Marantz PM6004

 

[dkane360]

So if your receiver doesn't have optical in, you wouldn't be able to use this.
My receiver is a Marantz PM6004

Correct, although you can use a DAC if you want to take advantage of the optical out.

 

[JohnA]

As said above you can use a DAC if you want to, This one seems to be a good value.