Onkyo Releasing a High-End Soundcard

[Caparroz]

I can agree with that. Instead of this:

audio output (pc) > audio receiver > whatever speakers you fancy.

You really want this:

Kernel Streaming or ASIO -> digital transport --SPDIF or (preferably) I2S-> DAC -> amp -> quality speakers

I'd consider using a card like this as a digital transport, but it's kind of a waste when you can get something like the the Audio-GD Digital Interface that probably sounds better for (likely) cheaper. Either way, you're looking at at least a cool grand for an entry-level setup.

--Matt

By audio transporter I meant basically a player. I think you misunderstood me.

By audio transport I mean this:
http://www.pacificvalve.us/VanguardCDM12.html
(very good budget transport, comparable to german equivalents by 1/3 of the price)

A stereo setup is basically just this: transport (player, mostly a CD player) > amp > speaker.

[mockingbird]

Why do they have to use such junky capacitors? Toshin Kogyo caps in the picture "fake" Japanese caps that are really just rebranded Taiwanese junk.