gooomz:

Following this thread makes me wonder if a Squeezebox might make sense for you. Though it would not work (as far as I know) with iTunes MP3s ripped using DRM, you can stream your CD collection in a lossless format (like FLAC) and use the device's onboard DAC, or use its digital out to the 970's DAC. You'll get CD quality playback this way. You can also use the Squeezebox for Internet radio.