Yamaha RX-497 no optical

[ern]

If I decide to get the Yamaha RX-497 and it has no optical, that means im going to have to use a 3.5mm cable or one with a Y splitter correct? If this is so, does that mean I wont be able to use the DACs inside the 497 and use whatever my computers using? If so, whats a good sound card to get for this? Im just using this for music/mp3s/Itunes and Roland electric drums.

[450]

The RX-497 doesn't have a DAC I think. It appears to be a simple amp.

3.5mm to RCA cable is all you need. $7 + tax at Radioshack.

Use onboard for now and see how it sounds... modern onboard is far betterthan the stuff from even 3-4 years ago.

[ern]

So if that one doesnt have an onboard DAC, then I'll need something like a HT Reciever like I have in my living room?? I have a RX-V663 in there.

I could use something less expensive like the RX-V363? Im deff. gonna try out onboard first. I do want a reciever though.