Digital Audio Output

Most high quality DACs / AMPs are ‘plug and play’ via USB-C and do not require any drivers or extra apps…

The only problem is when you try to hook up a cheap Chinese, no name brand DAC that may require shady drivers.

( or any of those crappy and expensive “gamer” ready DACs)

So, as soon as you plug your DAC in, the Mac should recognize it as an audio output and switch to it automatically. Else, you can manually change the settings via the “Audio MIDI setup” app or via the Sound preferences tab…

IF you do have a 2021 M1, the MBP has a DAC/Amp built-in… not the best but it does work when you have a 80 - 250 Ohms headset around…

IF you do use a 250 - 600 Ohms professional studio headset, do get a good quality external DAC/Amp for your Mac…

Alright, check your Audio Research manual, there is usually a note towards the back about Mac USB usage... some Audio Research units are not "USB out/in" (most likely for service only.) Other times the OS might not be compatible or might need a driver... There might be a physical switch at the back to allow USB Communication...

By the way most Audio Research units have a USB 2.0 type B connector and that means you would need a USB-B to USB-C cable...

If it still doesn't work you might need to contact them directly:

https://audioresearch.com/contact/