OK...I just ripped an album to FLAC using EAC.
I will be playing it through my Squeezebox which is connected digitally to my pre/pro.
It should sound identical to the original CD as played through my Denon 2900 if played through the digital connection.
Unfortunately, I will not be able to test it much until tomorrow. The kids are watching old Pink Panther cartoons in HD at the moment.
BTW..those FLAC files are not small.