Yamaha AX-570 amp

[blackraven]

A DAC, converts a digital signal to an analog signal (your Turntable puts out an analog signal). Every CD player has one built in. DAC's really affect the sound. Most, if not all DAC's today have a USB input so you can play computer music. Most also have an digital optical or Digital Coax input so that you can connect the digital out of a CD, DVD player, TV etc. to the DAC. DAC's come in all sizes and price points. They are a must for computer music or it you want to upgrade the sound of your CD player if it has a digital out put. You can buy a DAC and use the CD player as a transport to send the music to the DAC by passing the internal DAC of the CD player.

For $1500 you can buy a very nice amp or integrated amp.

Here is one such integrated, it has a nice built in DAC and lots of power to drive those inefficient speakers. I like the sound of Peach Tree gear.

Amplifier with DAC - nova220SE Amplifier DAC with Tube | Peachtree Audio

Here is a nice brief review-

Peachtree nova220SE Integrated Amplifier – Reviews | TONEAudio MAGAZINE

Here is a great buy for $1399 with free shipping-

Peachtree Audio NOVA220SE Integrated Amplifier with DAC | eBay

The only draw back is that it only has 1 analog input but schiit audio makes a nice analog input selector for $49.

Here is another nice integrated amp without a DAC. I have not heard this one but I have heard other NAD gear. Nice sound and well built.

NAD C 375BEE Integrated Amp at Music Direct