Playing music from computer to A/V receiver

[sensibull]

I don't think the iPods support FLAC.

Not currently, and probably never natively, but there are hints it will be possible to play FLAC via Itunes in the near future. Read more about halfway down this page.

The Squeezebox Curtis linked (a fantastic product, from what I understand) supports FLAC natively. There's also iTunes lossless.

For critical listening, I'll just pop in a CD or SACD/DVD-A. Maybe I should have clarified my statement. I want the best fidelity possible for lossy MP3's.

Fair enough, but you may be surprised once you have a digital jukebox up and running how much of a pain it becomes (by comparison) to handle and organize hard media. I also rip for archive purposes, given the fragility of CD/DVD media. If something gets scratched, lost, or stolen I have a 1:1 backup ready to burn.

And frankly, given the amount of time and energy typical Ascend owners spend attaining the highest quality fidelity within their budget, I am somewhat shocked that MP3s pass muster around here.

Just my $.02...

[curtis]

And frankly, given the amount of time and energy typical Ascend owners spend attaining the highest quality fidelity within their budget, I am somewhat shocked that MP3s pass muster around here.

I have thought about that too.....but for me it is an issue of portability and compatibility. Using LAME at 256 produces very listenable and enjoyable reproductions for my use.

If I am going to be critical, I will sit in the listening position, and use CD's.

[Dave G]

Eddie,

Someone may have already said this, but yes, you can use your iPod as a source for your system -- and without too much effort. Apple will sell you a set of connectors for your iPod what will allow you to connect your iPod to any unused set of inputs on your receiver. That's what I've done and it's worked great. Just think of your iPod as an extra CD player that's pre-loaded with a bunch of CDs.

Have fun.

Dave