Part of an audio or audio/video playback system which reads the data from a storage medium (typically CD, DVD or laserdisc) but does not decode that data from its digital form into an analog form suitable for audio reproduction (or potentially video reproduction where applicable). transport out-sources the digital-to-analog conversion process to another component. This method allows the optimum quality by designing each piece for a specific task. Generally, outboard DACs (digital-to-analog converters) are of higher quality than those built into CD players, DVD players, etc. Additionally, dedicated transports tend to isolate the CD, DVD or other storage medium better and provide the best possible reading of the data. By combining the two using some form of digital interconnect (AT&T ST, Toslink, AES/EBU, coaxial) higher sound quality can be achieved than using one component with all the parts built in. n the negative side, transports and separate DACs tend to be costly and provide decreasing rates of return as they become more and more expensive. As is true with all things, after some point it takes great deals of time and money to obtain only marginal gains.

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Transport

Part of an audio or audio/video playback system which reads the data from a storage medium (typically CD, DVD or laserdisc) but does not decode that data from its digital form into an analog form suitable for audio reproduction (or potentially video reproduction where applicable).

A transport out-sources the digital-to-analog conversion process to another component. This method allows the optimum quality by designing each piece for a specific task. Generally, outboard DACs (digital-to-analog converters) are of higher quality than those built into CD players, DVD players, etc. Additionally, dedicated transports tend to isolate the CD, DVD or other storage medium better and provide the best possible reading of the data. By combining the two using some form of digital interconnect (AT&T ST, Toslink, AES/EBU, coaxial) higher sound quality can be achieved than using one component with all the parts built in.

On the negative side, transports and separate DACs tend to be costly and provide decreasing rates of return as they become more and more expensive. As is true with all things, after some point it takes great deals of time and money to obtain only marginal gains.