If you think your computer’s sound quality is 'good enough,' then I’m here to tell you that it’s not and your computer is rubbish.
But before you go and spend hundreds of dollars on a new soundcard, there’s something you should know. The reason your computer sounds like garbage has nothing to do with its hardware and everything to do with its software. I know, I know. You paid good money for that graphics card/processor/RAM/hard drive/soundcard, and it just doesn’t make sense that the software is the problem. But trust me, it is.
The solution? A digital-to-analog converter, or DAC for short.
Why Does My Computer Sound Terrible?
The answer has everything to do with bit-perfect playback and jitter. Bit perfect playback is the reproduction of digital audio data without alteration from the original source material.
For bit-perfect playback to occur, the data transfer from a storage device to the playback device must happen without error or change. Jitter occurs when this data transfer is not synchronized correctly, which results in the degradation of the sound quality.
Most computers are not configured for bit-perfect playback because their main priority is to process data quickly, not accurately. As a result, music files are often compressed to save space and reduce processing time (iTunes is a prime example of this).
This compression results in lower sound quality because critical data is removed during encoding. In addition, most computers use lower-quality DACs, which further contribute to subpar sound quality.
How Does a DAC Improve Sound Quality?
A DAC improves sound quality by providing bit-perfect playback and reducing jitter. When combined with lossless audio files, a DAC can provide audio fidelity that surpasses even the best CD players. The result is music that sounds more natural and lifelike, with greater detail, transparency, and depth.
If you’re serious about audio, then you need a DAC. It’s that simple. A DAC will improve the sound quality of your music by providing bit-perfect playback and reducing jitter. Not only that, but it will also make your music sound more natural and lifelike.
If you are interested in purchasing a DAC, click the link below, and you'll be taken to our list of the best DACs you can buy.
