[chrisby]

Looks like a new product from a not so new player in the "entry level / plug n play" computer audio field

AudioEngine D1 24/192 USB DAC / headphone amp  ($169), and D2 24/192 wireless transmitter / receiver.

These folks are probably more well known for WiFi adapters for iPod, small powered speakers and subs with connectivity for WiFi input etc.   While the low resolution audio quality of those may be fine for less critical listening, they probably wouldn't pass the audio-snob cognoscenti    test, but an under $200 simple "black box"  DAC for a headless Mini music server system has a lot of appeal. 

Too early for any listening tests for these new gadgets, or should a guy looking for no-frills set-it/forget-it solution look at the HRT Musicstreamer?

I'll be borrowing something like an Edirol or Alessis recording interface to rip a vinyl collection using PureVinyl, but once that's completed the Mini will migrate to another room were space and simplicity are more of an issue.



there really are too many players in this field now, and price and provenance are no guarantee of performance
 

comments?

[mcgsxr]

Interesting discovery.

This week I picked up a W2 for use with my iPod Touch.  I will use it in my old car as the source for my car audio system.  It will run as the only source.  Pretty cool stuff for $99 CDN!

http://audioengineusa.com/Store/Audioengine-W2#tech-stuff

I have tested it in my house, but with my main system dismantled and mostly sold off, I cannot comment on ultimate fidelity.  I will say that it is as good as the built in cd player in my JVC A1 unit.