Apple TV: Should I stay or should I go?

Forgot to describe my system:

Nait XS
FC2x
CD5x
Totem Arros
Naim cabling and interconnects

Forget about "lossless" if it's an newer (small black) AppleTV, as this (iOS) device outputs a fixed sample rate of 48 kHz–in this situation, you'd be better off with an older (large white/silver) AppleTV.

In what way are you finding it frustrating?

On the issue of quality as long as you're using either lossless (which it sounds like you are) or uncompressed files then whilst it may not quite match your CD5x then I think you'll find it's probably pretty decent.

Thanks for the comments.  I have had a successful first (and quick) experiment using the Apple TV in my 2-channel Naim system. 

MacBook Pro (iTunes)---> Apple TV---> DacMagic---> Nait XS/FC2   
Using the Remote app on my iTouch.  

As you promised, setup was painless.  I was very pleased with my initial listening.  New CD:  "Disney Jazz:  Everybody Wants to be a Cat".  Wonderful recording.  Highly recommended.  I haven't had a chance to compare this configuration with my CD5x.   My MBP is my work laptop, and I don't keep my music collection there.   My initial iTunes rip used default settings.  If better digital files make a significant difference, I'm going to be very pleased.  

Tech specs on my Apple TV says that Apple Lossless files are supported.  Is this my best bet if I choose to stay within the iTunes environment?  Can I keep my library on a separate hard drive?

My current frustration, is that the Apple TV quickly found both Mac laptops in the house, but it isn't connecting to my PC desktop (where our iTunes library lives).   I've gone a few rounds with tech support, but have not solved the problem yet.   I think I've ruled out problems with my antivirus.   May have something to do with my hardware firewall/router.   I'm getting old and tired- my patience for endless tech support phone calls is just not what it used to be.

If I can't easily get things to work with my PC, maybe I should copy my iTunes library to a hard drive and use it with one of my Mac laptops? 

While A/B listening and comparison will undoubtedly reveal some of the limitations of the iTunes/AppleTV/DacMagic combo, I initially found this to be very pleasing.  Like my CD5x/XS system, the music is dynamic, engaging and I don't find I am missing anything important.

To be honest - for £100 the ATV2 is pretty fantastic value and whilst I'm sure you could fret about the sampling rates - compared with the cost of a Uniti/NDX solution vfm is unbeatable if you have macs.

Tog

Tog,
I have to agree.  $99 is indeed a good value for the AppleTV.  

I spent a bit more time with my 2-channel system last night.  I ripped the same test CD using Apple Lossless.  Big jump in performance over the iTunes Plus setting.  

I was smiling ear to ear with both iTunes/AppleTV/DacMagic/XS/FC2x and CD5x/XS/FC2x.  Depending on the recording, my preferences varied between the two combinations.   On songs that had strong beats and grooves, it was a clear nod to the all Naim system.

My current goal is to extract as much performance as possible out of my existing gear... and get back to listening to more music.

Carp.  While pleasant, the inexpensive Apple TV/DacMagic combo does not fair well when compared to CD5x upon critical listening.   This was especially true with acoustic piano.  CD5x much more full bodied, deeper and more distinct soundstage, and far less fatiguing.  Given the economics, I'm glad my results are as they are!  

Critical listening is such a mixed blessing.  

What steps and/or upgrades will bring things closer to the performance of the CD5x?   Any steps I can take with my existing gear?  

Thanks for your patience.

AppleTV2?

David,
I purchased it about a week ago, so it's the current version.

Try it with a 48 kHz / 24-bit download (or 96 kHz if you're lucky) and see if this sorts it out.

Comparing the ATV2 / Dac Magic to Naim gear will obviously show the deficiences - as will comparing a Mondeo with a Porsche.

For the money its a brilliant way to start or for casual listening.

Tog

Tog,
Indeed.  I certainly expected the CD5x to shine in this comparison.  At least for me, the question is what gear will bring me personal musical satisfaction.   My XS/CD5x/FC2 system does exactly that.  I know my system could be improved, and I would certainly appreciate the differences, but I am happy that I don't currently feel the need to upgrade.

The iTunes/AppleTV/DacMagic/XS combo while pleasant, is not satisfying enough for my main system.   The equipment is quite versatile, so I am sure I will put it to good use somewhere in the house.

Regards.

JB - do make sure that you've turned off all the audio processing options in iTunes (such as level matching between tracks, equalisation etc.)  And definitely select the option which disables the iTunes volume control when streaming to remote speakers - all this under preferences.  If any of those options are enabled then it will be screwing with the integrity of your digital output.

Still I don't suppose it's any surprise that the CD5x is still winning through here.

DT79- Thanks very much for the suggestions.  Will try.