Airport express vs USB DAC for iMac to AMP receiver?

[gerrard0804]

I know the AirPort express (AX) can be connected to amplifier receiver via toslink up to 16 bits 44.1khz (CD quality) and some of the USB DAC ( sound blaster E5 or G5) is up to 24 bits 192khz.

I need my iMac Pro to connect to my 5.1 amplifier receiver to play itunes music/movie/youtube on safari and gaming under bootcamp. Does it make any difference between AX or USB DAC?

I am not quite clear if the AX would stream the system's sound also? Furthermore, how does the AX stream gaming sound under bootcamp?

 

[Dksiazek]

I'm pretty sure the AX can only output stereo (though I have never tried anything else). Also, there is a delay on the AX, which is fine for playing music, but makes it un-usable for video.

I know the AirPort express (AX) can be connected to amplifier receiver via toslink up to 16 bits 44.1khz (CD quality) and some of the USB DAC ( sound blaster E5 or G5) is up to 24 bits 192khz.

I need my iMac Pro to connect to my 5.1 amplifier receiver to play itunes music/movie/youtube on safari and gaming under bootcamp. Does it make any difference between AX or USB DAC?

I am not quite clear if the AX would stream the system's sound also? Furthermore, how does the AX stream gaming sound under bootcamp?

 

[gerrard0804]

I'm pretty sure the AX can only output stereo (though I have never tried anything else). Also, there is a delay on the AX, which is fine for playing music, but makes it un-usable for video.

so, better pick a USB DAC, know Sound blaster E5 or G5 better? some review said E5 not true 7.1 . However, I wonder it should by pass the digital signal anyway, so there should be true 7.1 or not. I am quite confused.