Usb audio newbie question

It depends on the device. On my Def Tech Incline powered monitors with DAC, I can do just what you are describing, but not every USB input will, and I am not sure what the differences are...

However, if you are spending that much on an integrated, why not purchase a streaming device? I use Logitech squeezebox touches for whole home audio, they are readily available for cheap, and they are great streamers that support Tidal. If you can find a chromecast audio those also work really well utilizing the mini optical out. Your iphone isn't the best sounding streamer, the SBT would be a significant step up, and of course there are a LOT of better options out there for a lot more money...

bemckinley1974 wrote: »

How is the SBT a better streamer than the iPhone? If I understand correctly, using the lightning port with a usb cable will bypass any processing by the phone and send an unprocessed digital signal out, allowing the DAC in the parasound to do the processing. Is there something else I’m missing on how all this works?

I don't know the technical reasons, but digital streamers (even using an external DAC) sound different. People don't spend $1000s on a dedicated streamer just for looks or convenience. Just like CD transports can sound different, so can streamers.

When I was generously karma'ed my Bryston BDP-1, I was using a computer running roon--set to take control of the PC's sound output--into the USB input of an Arcam rdac. When I plugged the Bryston my jaw hit the floor. How could it sound so much better? Noise is a big part - the background is MUCH blacker as you more up the chain. But the soundstage was bigger, there was more air around the instruments, everything was just startling different.

I suggest you do some research. And a SBT is a great place to start, because at this point their value holds pretty steady so if you decide its not any better you can just resell it...