I Bought the Speakers, Need Help With DAC

[EIPtuningR32]

Hello guys, so I got a hold of some Audioengine A5+ speakers. There primary use will be as computer speakers listening to SACD/DSD/24-96 audio recordings. My computer is outdated and I do not want to use the mobo as my converter. SO, I am looking for a good digital to analog converter for under $250. I was informed by ShadyJ on here a while ago to not worry about standard DACs (Dragonfly, Audioengine D1) and go for a pro-audio interface (Lexicon alpha, Behringer UCA222) because they do the same thing for much less money.

I am wondering if you guys could give me some more input on what you think the best options are (Audiophile DAC or pro-audio interface). And, which ones are popular now and for what reasons?

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

If I understand, you’re using your computer as the source? (Pardon my ignorance if that’s obvious; I didn’t know computers could play SACDs).

If so, yes I’d agree that a standard USB pro audio interface will suffice, especially with those speakers. I’m using a TASCAM US-122L for my computer system with Swans M200 speakers, which are probably about par with yours, and have no complaints.

As far as which ones are popular, that probably won’t be of any relevance to you. Most people who get pro audio interfaces do so for amateur recording, use with room measurement platforms like Room EQ Wizard, etc. IOW, reasons other than audiophile listening.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[EIPtuningR32]

There is a couple ways of playing SACD through a computer, I have an SACD player that connects via usb, so I can rip my own SACD files to my computer.

So you suggest the pro-audio interface route?

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

Yes, unless you really feel you need an “audiophile” solution.

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[EIPtuningR32]

Audiophile meaning more expensive or better performing?

 

[Bexiesbruv]

Does the pro audio interface have a dac on board? If it does then that would appear to be the solution but if it does not, then you will still be using your on board sound card with its dac. I recently bought the odac and cdac from audio poutine on facebook. Couldnt believe the difference in quality of the music from what I was getting out of my PC.

 

[PENG]

There is a couple ways of playing SACD through a computer, I have an SACD player that connects via usb, so I can rip my own SACD files to my computer.

So you suggest the pro-audio interface route?

Are you sure you are ripping SACD file and not just the CD layer on the SACD disc? I thought the only consumer product that can rip SACD files is the original PS3 player.