iMac 2017 built-in Dac vs external Dac

woodmeister50 wrote:

Just to add, it also depends on the format of your music.

iTunes AAC music or any MP3 music will see no real

benefit in a higher quality DAC.

I somewhat disagree. Noise rejection and the speed of the DAC makes a difference.

Also, the real bottomline starts at the speakers or headphones

that are eventually used and then follow the "electronic chain" back to

the music media.

Yep.

Just to add, it also depends on the format of your music.

iTunes AAC music or any MP3 music will see no real

benefit in a higher quality DAC.

Also, the real bottomline starts at the speakers or headphones

that are eventually used and then follow the "electronic chain" back to

the music media.

FWIW, make sure the Schiit, or any external DAC is compatible with the version of macOS you are running. Personally I've been running the AudioQuest Dragonfly Red DAC with good results. I've just ordered the Colbalt model and will find out tomorrow if it is better. Hopefully it is otherwise I have to return it.

One would hope so, though it depends on your ears and what you consider "superior".