I think there has been considerable confusion about the source end of the chain since we moved from physical media. If I understand this unit correctly, it acts as a renderer of digital music sent its way. It then outputs the signal digitally in a form that DACs understand. This kind of media renderer is also sometimes sold as a renderer/DAC combo with analog outputs (often along with digital outs too).
So, I've seen transport, renderer, streamer, streaming bridge, and probably other names, represent this piece in this very new world of digital media.
I have an Auralic Aries that does the same thing (at way more $$). I also have a Cambridge Audio Azur 851N combo network streamer and DAC. It just serves as a DAC now, with the Aries feeding it the signal.
$.02
Now back to our originally scheduled audio listing......
......Peter
