With the mass acceptance of portable listening devices such as the iPod and other music players, it is easy to forget the presence and clarity available through classic discrete design. Although digital media players have their place, we use them as well, for the ultimate in music listening enjoyment, devices with discrete components are hard to beat. One of the primary factors from a technical standpoint, is the reduction or even the illumination of negative signal feedback (NFB). Although many would argue the benefits, which there are many, to this design approach, reducing negative feedback has positive aspects including the unique harmonics spectra that many attribute to the reduced listener fatigue that is experienced. Although there are no perfect approaches, many find audio equipment designed with discrete components provides that “X” factor that is missing from today’s new designs. By coupling your media player to a component using a discrete design, you can leverage the benefits of both worlds. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?