nMP audio output/receiver advice

[Cyclogram]

Greetings,

First post in over a decade (had to create a new account)...

I have a nMP connected to the latest H/K Soundsticks. I've had a similar set up since 2002 starting with a MDD PowerMac and the 1st gen SoundSticks.

Although I stream audio to my remotely located stereo receiver, I'm looking to bring a better audio experience into my office where the nMP is located. Computer speakers won't cut it anymore. I know they're not-so-great H/K, so I'd rather blow $$$ on proper speakers connected to an amp than the same amount on quality 'desktop' speakers.

I'm looking for advice for a relatively simple solution to wire the nMP to a new receiver. It's my understanding the nMP audio out port (despite being a minijack) supports digital S/PDIF fiber optic cables. However, I've found no examples of such a set-up.

Has anyone connected their nMP to a receiver using the highest fidelity output (not analog) with good results?

Basically, I'm looking for a relatively straightforward solution that involves nothing more than:
1) recommended ports/cables
2) recommended receiver

I'm amenable to a HDMI solution, but note that one of my displays occupies the HDMI port. Would also consider a TB connection if such a (reasonably priced) converter to a standard audio output exists for the receiver end.

I'd like to keep my budget to around $600 USD for the receiver and necessary cables. Speakers be damned, I'll deal with those later.

Many thanks in advance,
-CG

 

[Alrescha]

I'm looking for advice for a relatively simple solution to wire the nMP to a new receiver. It's my understanding the nMP audio out port (despite being a minijack) supports digital S/PDIF fiber optic cables.

The new Mac Pro, like many newer Macs, supports digital audio output via a mini-Toslink cable, e.g.:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1051067-REG/moshi_99mo023108_toslink_optical_audio_cable.html

If you want just really good stereo, that plus a D to A converter,

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/890577-REG/Fiio_D03K_Digital_Audio_Analog.html

Will feed most any integrated amplifier or pre-amp/amplifier combo that you might purchase (or already own today).

If you want surround sound from movies, you will need a surround sound receiver. All the devices I currently use are no longer sold today, so I am limited in my ability to recommend.

A.

 

[Cyclogram]

@Alrescha - many, many thanks! The Moshi Toslink looks spot on. I was looking for something like this, but the products I found before obscured a clear view minijack. Had no idea the Toslink technology was really retrofitted to the minijack interface. I'm getting old and have lost touch.

As for the D/A converter, considering my JVC pre-amp has Toslink in/output, despite being over 10 y/o, it seems sufficiently modern to drive the rest. I just might migrate that to the office and use it -- even if I have to use the analog inputs.

You may have very well solved my problem with a <$60 solution. Saving me $$$ I can allocate toward soundproofing and speakers

-CG

 

[Alrescha]

You may have very well solved my problem with a <$60 solution. Saving me $$$ I can allocate toward soundproofing and speakers

I am glad I could help. Note that there are cheaper versions of that cable - that one just happens to be the most versatile.

A.