by mcocorochio » 28 Jan 2016, 22:52
I don't have all your answers but I will reply to what works for me and why I chose the solution.
I have 3 USB DACs.
The first is a very generic cheap unit (no brand name available) that I purchased to use from computer to stereo. It has 3 inputs: USB and 2 digital.
It has outputs for RCA stereo connection and small headphone connector. It also has a volume control for the headphone. This unit worked without any problems on Rune. The pros: volume control, no driver issues. Cons: it is bigger than a Pi in the standard size case. It is back on my computer now.
The 2nd unit is StartTech.com small USB DAC. I purchased it because of it very small size and volume control. This unit worked without any issues on the Rune. The pros: volume control, small size, cheap. The cons: noisy audio output on the right channel, mostly noticed on silent sections of music. It is now in my box of Pi spare parts that I hope I don't have to use.
The 3rd unit: Fiio E10K USB DAC. A little more money, but much better than the others. Works with no driver issues on the Rune. Pros: small enough, half the size of the Pi. Volume control. Cons: none so far.
My opinion of USB vs header installed DACs:
Installed DACs are more convenient to carry around and most have better specs than my cheap USB DACs.
USB DACs usually have volume controls. I like volume controls enough that this wins out over the installed DACs for my use. The bit rate on my music collection does not seem to be high enough to require the better DACs. I also use USB battery power, so that I'm just a mess of cables anyway. One more USB cable is not going to matter.
I hope something in the above helps.
Mike C
