QUOTE(daijoubu @ Mar 12 2007, 02:45 AM)
IMO, when it comes to mp3, i think sound quality isnt really something that you would prioritize, instead durability and longevity should be the issue. Those dirt cheap USB players out there differ compared to branded ones in terms of reliability. So lets say, Brothers USB player RM150, Sony USB player, RM400. The Brothers might last u few months while the Sony might last you years. So in end, paying less now could cause u to pay more in the long term.
But if you care about SQ, CD should be the way. Anyway, DAC is one factor, but lots of other electronic components factor into the overall soundquality, including the mosfets, caps, etc. So, if plugged in into reputable speakers, the sound quality can differ quite alot (between branded and capalang ones)
Heck, IIRC, pioneer's (to some, it is branded) SQ isnt as good as stuff like alpine and eclipse. It can be said the same for Brothers vs Pioneers

Anyway, thats what i think ^^
currently i am using alpine HU, but only cd, quite inconvenient anyway..now i trying brother USB player(from my frd)..just curious wanna know how much different between the brothers Hu and branded Hu like alpine in term of SQ..in USB..
actually i thinking to get one USB supported HU for myself..but it seen like the result mostly depend on the bit rate..if both also the same..i rather go for brother HU others then alpine and so..it so spicy..
dont wan to regret after throw so many cash on the HU ..endup get the same result..
anyway now i am using mb quart component set wif JBL sub and two cap + mohawk preamp + rockford monoblock + alpine 4 channal