[The mod keeps deleting this post for some reason. Will keep re-posting until they actually read it and stop removing it]
Now that Apple has upgraded the built in DAC chip in all new Macs, does anyone plan on adding a Mac to their audiophile setup? I don’t know the chip manufacturer yet, but Apple Support indicates the DAC will support up to 96kHz files. I love my Cambridge Audio DAC, but I could see a Mac Mini replacing it in the future.
The issue here is that even with Apple’s “high res” solution you’re still using a device that’s subject to internal interference. There’s always going to be EMI inside of a computer. Even USB-3 ports and devices put out low-level RF interference that can impact your home Wi-Fi. Apple is trying to convince you that an internal sound card is better than an external one and it’s just not true.
If you’re getting a Mac for the look, design, and to be a media server (maybe with a NAS or DAS solution to supplement and store more/higher-quality media), then great. If you want their OS because it’s pretty and functional for many uses, even better. If you’re getting it to use as your DAC and, potentially, your amp, it’s a bad choice. It’s the same reason I use external sound cards for my PCs, internal introduces problems that can’t easily be solved.
Apple is great at marketing and a lot of people are going to fall for this. Some may even have an improved experience over their current setup. No matter what, you would be better served investing in audio-only equipment if all you want/need it a better conversion device that looks pretty.