Need help optimizing my laptop workstation audio

[Conejo23]

Hey folks, I just discovered the world of hi-res streaming and I'm definitely tumbling down that rabbit hole. I think I've got my home theater setup in place and am now turning my attention to my workstation. FYI, I'm using Qobuz with the Audirvana integration as my typical source.

I currently have a Macbook Pro connected directly via the headphone jack to a pair of JBL LSR305s up on stands so they're about ear height. I've heard a good DAC can improve sound quality, and it would be great to get something with a volume control on the front as these speakers have separate volume controls on the back. But then I've heard that Macs have pretty good DACs and I might not get much sound improvement.

So, this is a case where the more I dig into it the more confused I get. Would something like a Fiio K3 be helpful here? Or something else entirely apart from a DAC?

Side note: when we upgraded our home theater system I replaced our Polk PSW111 subwoofer with the SVS-SB2000. I'm wondering if it would make sense to use the Polk in my office in conjunction with the JBLs, or if it would be overkill. And if it does make sense, then what kind of device do I need to incorporate it?

I'd be grateful for anyone who can help me climb out of this fog of confusion and get some clarity, thanks!

 

[JohnJ]

Conejo23-

Welcome to "computer hi-fi." Your present set-up with the MacBKPro and Audirvana is a great start. An external DAC plugged into your stereo will definitely improve the sound quality. You can then connect the Mac via USB or Toslink directly from the headphone jack.

Have you tried ripping your CD's? Having them together on a hard- drive is very convenient and makes a CD spinner almost unnecessary.

I suggest using the AIFF format as it is uncompressed and storage space is so cheap these days.

This stuff does have a learning curve but it goes quickly.

The sub woofer may well help the bottom end but as always it's all in the listen. Never used a sub woofer so cannot comment on what you might need.

Enjoy the Hunt!

 

[Conejo23]

Ok, so I made a few changes here and things are sounding pretty darn good.

First, I got IsoAcoustic 155 stands for the speakers. Gets them to precisely the right height, and off the wooden stands I had before. The improvement is subtle but noticeable, particularly in mids and highs.

Then, I got the Cambridge DacMagic Plus and connect via balanced xlr to 1/4" cables. Audirvana didn't initially want to play nicely with the DAC, but I've got it working and that combo definitely sounds better.

I do have a bunch of CDs and I might re-rip a few into aiff format, but honestly, at this point I'm mostly streaming with Qobuz. It's been fun exploring new music, they have a rich jazz and classical library.

Fun stuff.