Streaming w/Airport Express through Naim DAC

Posted by: ngarritson on 27 December 2014

I just got the classic line Naim DAC and am pairing it with my NAC 112/Flatcap/NAP 150/Intro 2 system. I am running an Airport Express into the DAC with a toslink optical cable. I have re-ripped all my CDs into iTunes using the Apple Lossless format since getting the DAC. Playing Lossless files with the Airport Express/DAC setup definitely sounds better than my old CD5. I haven't gone to a more sophisticated streaming method because I like the convenience of Apple's products, and because I haven't invested the time to study the maze of streaming options.

However....

I am beginning to suspect I am not maximizing the 24 bit/768 Hz capabilities of the DAC. So I have a few questions for the forum.

1. Is it true the Airport Express's maximum digital output capability is 16 bit/44 Hz?

2. Can any of the iPad or iPod versions produce 24 bit output if they are connected directly to DAC via USB?

3. Is there a way to send 24 bit quality signal to the DAC using a Mac laptop?

Thanks very much.

Posted on: 27 December 2014 by David02

http://www.computeraudiophile....ple-airport-express/

answer to question 1. : everything seems to be converted to 16/44... I think the Bluesound Node can handle higher resolutions, this would be a relative cheap solution

Posted on: 28 December 2014 by ChrisSU

I see the Airport Express optical connection as a good convenience feature which is never going to give great sound quality. The best solution is going to depend on how much cash you are prepared to spend. A wired connection from your existing computer, or better still, a dedicated music-only one (eg Mac Mini) will give your DAC the quality source it needs. You could go one stage further and add a streamer. Either way, sending your music over WiFi will compromise sound quality.