As for 'bit-perfect' just remember this, perfect is an ideal. USB audio is not an error checking protocol (nor is S/PDIF). It's nothing to worry about either, a lost bit here and there really doesn't harm audio, just consider the sample rates we are talking about. An Async. DAC will get you closer than anything else you can do.
Regarding drivers: No need to fear you won't get the best sound out of your Ubuntu rig, windows systems need drivers to deliver higher sample rates (that you are unlikely to need anyhow), most any modern *NIX install does not require such help from drivers. Set up correctly it is a simple pass-through, your Ubuntu system will not touch a single bit on its way out the port of choice. FWIW, I read a post a while back where a guy, after extensive A/B testing various OS's, claimed he perceived the best sound from a FreeBSD rig using ALSA. I haven't built a FreeBSD box in a while and straining to hear 'micro-details', 'air', 'blackness' and other audiophile hyperbole just gives me a headache...not the desired outcome.
Plug it in, tell MPD to use the external DAC sit back with your favorite beverage and enjoy. If it sounds right, it is right.
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Originally Posted by eshwar_andhavarapu
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