[pstinnett]

what's the best way to hook my stereo up to my powerbook without using the headphone out jack on the computer?

[slpdLoad]

I like these: USB Audio - USB Sound Card - Turtle Beach - Audio Advantage Micro

I use one to connect to my stereo over an optical connection (works for either optical or standard mini-jack). There's no Mac OS driver though, so it doesn't do surround sound like it claims.

Also check into the M-Audio Transit: M-AUDIO - Transit - Hi-Resolution Mobile Audio Upgrade

And the Griffin Technology iMic: Griffin Technology: iMic - USB Audio Interface

Cheers

[druber]

Why do you want a different way? Do you want to run RCA to your stereo, a digital signal, what? Good reasons to both, depending on the price you'd like to pay, features, etc. Be a bit more specific and the responses will be more helpful.

[Leonard]

It would also help to know which computer you have. If you have a computer with optical audio out, that would be a better way to connect it to your stereo, if your stereo has optical audio in.

[all2ofme]

This thread might be worth keeping an eye on:

http://forums.macnn.com/65/power-mac...audio-quality/

I recommended Headroom's (www.headphone.com) amps/DACs there and they'd worth with either optical out (if you have it) or USB. Much better sound in my opinion.