most CD players have a digital output so the unit can be used as a transport, but I can't recall many that have a digital input to utilize the DAC with another source. And those that do will likely cost more than $300-600.

Cambridge Audio 740C $800

DacMagic/DacMagic Plus.

If you are just going to use you MBP plug it in to that guy and you have a DAC and preamp all together.

Cambridge gear tends to be great circuits put together somewhat cheaply and take well to upgrading electrolytics and coupling caps.  You can really have a nice sounding piece for not a lot of dough with a little work.

jgossman wrote:

DacMagic/DacMagic Plus.

If you are just going to use you MBP plug it in to that guy and you have a DAC and preamp all together.

Cambridge gear tends to be great circuits put together somewhat cheaply and take well to upgrading electrolytics and coupling caps.  You can really have a nice sounding piece for not a lot of dough with a little work.

What if the OP also wants a CD player?

and press play.

The Simaudio Moon  650D: MF loved it

*EDIT*

crap didn't see the budget...

sawrry

for hi fi, but if it is already in possession the price is right compared to an $800 CDP.

If the dac has it's own clock I'm not sure his system is going to resolve this deficiency.