Audio Card or Outboard DAC?

Hi,

I am considering setting up a music server using an existing spare PC. I was considering doing one of the following:

-> Get a high end PCI audio card (like Azuntech's X-Meridian) and feeding it directly to my preamp. I'm open to better sound card options here as there were only a few that seemed to fit the bill. And even then I wonder...

-> use the onboard S/PDIF output from my motherboard to a good used DAC (~$1000).

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement