For the audio connoisseur who wants to extract every ounce of sound quality from his digital files, the Classé Audio CP-800 is for you. This marvelous sounding preamp has been receiving rave reviews and can easily handle all of your digital-to-analog needs with its nine digital inputs. The CP-800 uses what Classé calls a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) to help ensure that the complex flow of data from your computer arrives at its internal DAC in a bit-perfect fashion. The CP-800 is ideally suited for those who want to recreate a live performance feeling in their living rooms. Keep in mind, however, that you will need a top-quality amplifier and loudspeakers to enjoy the CP-800 fully.

$5,000; www.classeaudio.com