As audio technologies evolved over the years, it became obvious that music listeners were moving toward computer-based audio. However, consumer electronics were not adjusting to this rapidly developing trend. Sure, you could connect your portable music device, laptop or PC to your home stereo via a plethora of splitters, cables and adapters, but you would still be dealing with typically low-quality, analog output stages or headphone jacks. Sound quality was mediocre at best and horrible at the other end of the scale.